Volkswagen: This is the new California 🎥
FIRST TEST At the Swiss Caravan Salon in Bern, the California from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles celebrated its Swiss premiere. The dream of many camper enthusiasts is based on the renewed, digitally upgraded T6.1. The California has always stood for boundless freedom - pack up, go, camp wherever you want. A pop-up roof as standard, two sleeping areas upstairs and downstairs - this makes the Bulli [...]
The California has always stood for boundless freedom - pack up, go, camp wherever you want.
A pop-up roof as standard, two sleeping areas above and below - this turns the Bulli into a California. The low height of under two meters, which makes it compatible with most parking garages, adds to its popularity.
Now Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has given the successful model an update. With new technology, a new front end and new equipment features, it is now being launched under the name California 6.1.
Touchscreen and assistance systems
New features on board include a touchscreen in the overhead console to control the camper functions (such as electric pop-up roof, auxiliary heating, tilt angle control and much more), the completely redesigned cockpit with optional digital instruments, online connection of the infotainment systems.
Thanks to new electric steering, there are now also helpful assistance systems, such as lane keeping, semi-automatic parking, flank protection, trailer assist (for trailers) and crosswind assist.
Equipment from simple to luxurious
There are three basic models: Beach (from 49,800 Swiss francs), Coast (from 50,260) and Ocean (from 59,870). New for the Beach are the standard folding mini-kitchen and (optional) sliding doors on both sides.
Coast and Ocean are each equipped with the kitchen combination consisting of refrigerator, two burner gas stove, sink with running water and a lot of storage space.
Dual-clutch transmission and 4Motion
The California is powered by a 2.0-liter TDI with a choice of 110, 150 or 199 hp; the two more powerful powertrains are available with 7-speed DSG dual-clutch transmission and 4Motion all-wheel drive.
On our test drive, we drove the top engine with DSG and all-wheel drive (from 76,480 Swiss francs). This meant that we were always quick on winding roads and highways and could count on optimal traction on loose surfaces.
With temperatures in the more autumnal mode, the parking heater was a loyal friend. The next vacations in the snow or bright sun can come.
