Volkswagen Grand California, for all those who want a luxury "camper"

I think we can agree that when we think of the quintessential “camper” van, the Volkswagen California comes to mind for all of us, a model that in late 2018 celebrated its 30th anniversary with a limited edition of 999 units. Campers are enjoying a sweet moment in these years, and Volkswagen wants to take advantage of the momentum by taking the California concept to a new level, announcing for this purpose the new Grand California.

Contrary to what we might initially assume, the new Volkswagen Grand California is not a normal, improved California. For this model, the brand goes one step further and uses the Volkswagen Crafter as the basis for a new camper. The Crafter offers greater advantages for this use since its larger dimensions provide more interior space, and it can also be fitted with more accessories, which will be designed, installed and finished at the factory by Volkswagen itself, without external converters.

Its size will precisely be the great ally of the Volkswagen Grand California, as two models will be available to choose from: on the one hand, the Grand California 600, which at 6 metres in length Volkswagen is considered ideal for families, as it has an extra bed located under the high roof; on the other hand, there is the Grand California 680, which has a wheelbase 80 cm longer, allowing for a larger rear area for sleeping and storage, making this model ideal for long trips as a couple.

The interior of the Volkswagen Grand California has been designed to make the most of the space, and is conceived as if it were the interior of a yacht, with white cabinets and a floor covering that attempts to imitate a boat deck. It also features elements that will try to make life easier for us, such as its tilting windows and roof hatches to provide ample light, swivelling front seats, a table for four people, a 70-litre fridge, six USB ports and four 230 V sockets, an awning, two chairs and a folding table for outdoor use, a stationary heater and Truma Combi D 6 E water heater, and a complete independent bathroom with toilet, shower and washbasin.

In terms of technology, we find three infotainment systems including a mobile phone interface, Media Control and App-Connect, as well as online mobile services whose functionality can be expanded by installing a WiFi antenna. In terms of safety, it comes as standard with the Cross Wind Assist, Hill Start Assist and Front Assist systems, although it can be expanded with other optional systems such as Lane Assist, automatic Park Assist, rear-view camera or rear angle detector, among others.

Mechanically, the Volkswagen Grand California will be equipped with a 2,000 cc TDI diesel engine delivering 177 CV of power and 410 Nm of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic gearbox that can send its power to the front wheels or to all four wheels if we opt for the 4MOTION version with differential lock.

The Volkswagen Grand California will reach the market at the end of the year, with a starting price of €72,520 for the 600 version and €74,950 for the 680 version.