• Very well finished
• Feels much plusher than you might expect
• Making the beds is easy

How is the quality and layout?

The T5 Volkswagen California shares its dashboard with the T5 Transporter van, a vehicle noted for having a much higher quality feel than any of its rivals. Indeed, the plastics were of a similar standard to those VW was using in its cars at the time, and everything was extremely robustly put together.

The same goes for the California’s camper conversion. The solidity of the joinery, the smoothness of the drawers and doors, the tight tolerances, the attention to detail are all of a standard unmatched by other camper van builders at the time.

Back to the dashboard, and it has a very simple layout. There are analogue dials and a small display screen in front of the driver. The gearstick sprouts from the dash a short reach from the steering wheel. There’s a high-spec stereo in the middle and, below that, the climate control panel. Post-facelift models have an extra console on the ceiling to control the pop-up roof.

Infotainment and tech

By modern standards, there’s not that much tech in the T5 California. Standard equipment includes front electric windows and door mirrors, air conditioning and a stereo with radio and CD. An auxiliary heater is fitted to keep the vehicle warm without running the engine.

The 2009 facelift brought in a new touchscreen infotainment system that added Bluetooth and various other functions. DAB radio was added later; some models also have satnav. Some T5 Californias may have been fitted with fancier aftermarket infotainment systems, USB sockets and other more up-to-date tech. If so, make sure its all been fitted correctly and works as its should.

Comfort

• Comfortable seats
• Mostly smooth ride quality
• Long journeys pass easily

The T5 California’s captain’s-style front seats are hugely comfortable. With armrests on both sides, you can really relax into a journey. They lack support when taking a corner at high speed, but you’re not going to fall out of them. The rear bench seat is perfectly comfortable, as well, though again lacking side support. Some people might find the backrest is too upright, as well.

Living in the camper

It takes just a few moments to reconfigure the T5 California for sleeping. The pop-top roof opens easily and can be separated by a sliding partition that doubles as the bed base. The rear bench seat folds down to create the second bed.

Both beds are doubles; the upper one is a bit more comfortable because its base has some springiness to it. Still, you should be able to get a good night’s sleep in either. You get a wider lower bed in the Beach model but lose the kitchen unit and cupboards.

The kitchen is compact but easy to use. The twin-burner gas hob is effective, the fridge keeps your food and drink nice and cool. There’s a small sink, as well. There are on-board gas and water supplies, plus an external electrical hook-up. Some models have an awning that’s easily erected; a drop-down storage locker in the roof above the boot is handy for storing outdoor gear; a table and chairs slots into a pocket on the tailgate.

Over the years, the Parkers team has spent many weeks living the various generations of California and the experience has always been thoroughly enjoyable. Only the lack of a bathroom detracts, but there are many options for external showers and toilets.