Volkswagen California (05 on) - Review

Review by Simon Harris on
Last Updated: 24 September 2009
Many people will have fond memories of once owning a 'Camper van'. And while plenty of these older models are still on the roads, it is perhaps easy to overlook the fact that Volkswagen still sells its equivalent today. Based on the Volkswagen Caravelle, the California offers a four-seat/four-berth travelling companion and even comes complete with the kitchen sink. The California sleeps two in it's pop-up roof compartment and two in the passenger compartment - it can also carry water and gas. It might lack the simplistic charm of the original Camper, but it's a capable part-time traveller and is certainly more manageable than a full-size motorhome.
4 out of 5

Other Volkswagen reviews

2.5 out of 5

Running costs

With prices starting at upwards of £35,000 for a new California, it can't really be described as cheap. However, you're almost getting a proper motorhome for the money, so it's quite competitive when compared with larger vehicles. Manual versions should be good for at least 33mpg, with the automatic dipping just under the 30mpg mark. Expect the California to retain about half it's original cost after three years.

Summary Running Costs

Servicing period

Variable servicing (up to approximately 18,000 miles or two years) or fixed servicing (at every 10,000 miles or 12 months) can be chosen when new. It is possible to change from one to another during the vehicle’s life, but it can only be done when a full inspection service is due.

Warranty

Three years/100,000 miles.

Road tax (12 months)

£215.00 - £475.00

Vehicle excise duty (VED) varies according to the CO2 emissions and the fuel type of the vehicle. For cars registered after March 1st 2001 VED or road tax is based on the car's CO2 emissions. For cars registered before March 1st 2001 it is based on engine size.

Full running costs data

2 out of 5

Green credentials

  • A
  • B
  • C
  • D
  • E
  • F
  • G
  • H
  • I
    184
  • J
  • K
  • L
  • M
    257

CO2 emission figure (g/km)

Fuel economy rating

The arrows indicate the best and worst CO2 bands for this model.

Emissions summary

The California scores fairly badly on the eco front, despite only using a diesel engine. Due to it's weight and less than aerodynamic shape, all models emits more than 200g/km of CO2. The cleanest version is the 130bhp TDI which emits 219g/km of CO2 and averages 34mpg.

Find the exact engine and CO2