For nature lovers, the California range from Volkswagen is a beautiful but distant dream, at least if we think about the high prices of these vans equipped with all the comforts and facilities of a caravan. Fortunately, Volkswagen also thought of those with a smaller budget, so it launched the first California model in the compact range, based on the fifth generation of Caddy.
A compact model, such as Caddy, has not only the advantage of price but also of mobility. That's because the new Volkswagen Caddy California will be able to reach places where a van will have difficulty manoeuvring - from narrow forest roads to soft terrain and low grip.
The Volkswagen Caddy California is only 4.5 meters long, although an increased wheelbase will be offered next year. It will have a length of 4.85 meters. Despite its compact size, Caddy California is equipped with everything you could want for outdoor camping - from the sofa bed to the mobile kitchen.
What camping facilities does the new Volkswagen Caddy California offer?
The bed is as big as the one in the California and Grand California models, having 1.98 meters in length and 1.07 meters in width. The bed can be folded in three parts above the luggage space.
The mini-kitchen in Volkswagen Caddy is located on a movable drawer, on the left side of the trunk, under the folding bed. In this way it can be used even in the rain, being sheltered by the tailgate. Another advantage is that you can cook standing up - you don't have to bend over.
The mini-kitchen has a large workspace next to it. Under the countertop hides a cutlery drawer and a generous storage space. The gas container is stored in a very protected and ventilated space.
To the right of the mini-kitchen are stored a table and two chairs - classic features for a caravan. Caddy California can be outfitted with a modular tent that connects to the car space. It can also be used separately, without a car. The system allows camping for a family of four - two sleep on the bed in the car and two in the tent.
How is he doing on the road?
As a car, the Volkswagen Caddy California presents all the usual features of a model made on the MQB platform. We can mention here the virtual cockpit and the multimedia system with a 10-inch screen, as well as no less than 19 driving assistance systems. The new Travel Assist allows partially autonomous running and Trailer Assist which makes handling a trailer a child's play.
Two diesel engines will be available at launch - with 75 hp and 122 hp. The new TDI diesel engines with the innovative twin dosing system are especially environmentally friendly. Also, the Volkswagen Caddy California can be ordered with an all-wheel-drive system (4MOTION), which will ensure optimal traction on unpaved roads.
The Volkswagen Caddy California will have competition from the Spaniards with the Camperiz campervan. They offer a similar model, based on Dacia Dokker, at a very competitive price. The basic version of the Volkswagen Caddy camper is available starting from 34,000 euros.
