Volkswagen California isn’t too popular in Poland. The majority of drivers probably don’t know that such vehicle even exists. And that is a pity, because it’s one of a few cars that are offered in a camping version manufactured directly by the Volkswagen.

In other words, Volkswagen California is a Multivan with motorhome’s equipment, though it should be made clear, that camping vehicles have a lot more facilities. California is rather a compromise, dedicated to those, who would like to have a van, in which they could sleep from time to time. Polish customers can order one of the two versions of equipment – Beach and Comfortline.

Not only for the beach

The first model is cheaper – on sale, the basic version with 2-liter, 84 HP, TDI engine costs less than 122 000 PLN (29 350 EUR). It’s rather not an attractive price from the standpoint of a statistical Polish student, though the German manufacturer targets this vehicle at young people. That’s why on the folders this car is presented in yellow color and surrounded by surfers. Unfortunately, such bright colors aren’t available in Poland.

What distinguishes the model California Beach from other cars is mainly the manual pop-up roof. On the floor, there’s a double bed in the size of 1,20 x 2,00 m. In turn, “downstairs” there’s a couch (1,50 x 2,00m) which as well can sleep two people.

The car has been equipped in the system of roller blinds, which enables passengers to separate themselves from the world. The model Beach has a universal table, and two folding chairs, easily stowed in the rear compartments. You may take them out when parking or on the campsite. Under the rear couch there was even a place for a drawer.

Almost like a motorhome

Comfortline has a much richer equipment, but it’s price is also higher – the cheapest model costs on sale approximately 178 000 PLN (42 800 EUR), though it’s worth to emphasize that for this price we get a car with a 2-liter, 102 HP, TDI engine.

California Comfortline has an electric, pop-up roof. The upper bed is just like in the model Beach, but the lower bed is slightly shorter (1,14 x 2,00m), but with the possibility of extension. What’s really important is that this car has a really well-equipped kitchen part. It features a 2-burner gas stove, sink and a top-loading, 42-liter compressor refrigerator. In the kitchen, there’s also a double power point (12V and 230V).

Comfortline features a spacious wardrobe and compartments located under the ceiling. In the car we’ll also find a central control panel, located under the ceiling as well, between the passenger’s and driver’s seats.

Besides, standard version also provides Climatic air-conditioning. We’ll get the halogen headlights and anti-fog lights with cornering function.

Regardless of whether we’ll decide on Beach version, or Comfortline version, we can choose among TDI, BiTDI and TSI engines. There’re also BlueMotion variants (with the Start-Stop system and with Brake Energy Regeneration system) 4Motion (with 4-wheel drive), and with 7-speed automatic gearbox.