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Volkswagen's California was the brand's original motorhome. This T6-era model sold between 2015 and 2024 and was, like its predecessors, based on an equivalent Transporter van - which meant it sold to camper customers looking for a mid-sized model.
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History
In one sense, Volkswagen's California is a converted van with windows and a few beds in it. In another though, this vehicle - reviewed here in its T6-era form - could be seen as the key to a whole new life. Let us explain.
Let's say you've retired: there are only two of you and you want to travel around the UK and Europe. You don't want the continual cost of having to fork out for accommodation. But neither do you want anything as large, clunky and pricey to run as a really large motorhome. You definitely aren't a caravanning sort of person either. If we've described you, then this is your vehicle. It's car-like for when you just need an MPV. And motorhome-like for when you're travelling.
At the end of 2019, Volkswagen introduced a mid-term update and in this form, the model gained improved engines, revised infotainment systems and a new electromechanical power steering set-up. This sixth generation design was finally replaced by a Volkswagen Multivan MPV-based seventh generation version late in 2024.
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What you get
Externally, this T6 California looks like the van with windows that it actually is. The chassis platform also formed the basis not only for Volkswagen's Transporter T6 panel van and also its Caravelle people carrier.
Inside, California buyers could have full central heating - or more specifically a fresh air system with manual air con, a separate timing switch-operated domestic heater for when you're parked up and even a remote radio control for the whole system. Plus there's split-level accommodation comprising of a fold-out double bed downstairs and (once you've opened the optionally-electrically-elevated pop-up roof section) a bigger double in the roof. For mealtimes, there's a twin-ring gas cooker with stainless steel sink and drainer and, naturally, alongside the cupboards and ample storage, a fridge. There are also great views all round (particularly if you pull up for the night in the Highlands).
Other features include a decent infotainment system, a folding dining table, two folding chairs (stored neatly in the tailgate), a clothes cupboard, blackout blinds and smart draw curtains. Most original owners also specified the extra cost roll-out awning too. Downsides? Well, the ceiling is rather low and older people might struggle to reach the roof-mounted bed. Younger families meanwhile, will need more than four seats.
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What to look for
The T6-era California often tops lists for being one of the most reliable campers out there, so you're mainly looking at condition and service history in seeking the best one out. We have heard of a few issues though, most notably a problem with wheel bearings that apparently causes lots of fault codes to appear in the dashboard. Some owners also experienced a shrill noise from beneath the bonnet, warning that the auxiliary drive belt was on its way out. We also heard of problems with a malfunctioning EGR valve for the 2.0-litre TDI engine. And there have been reports of leaking windows. Look out for issues with poor starting and lumpy running. And check the bodywork carefully for scuffs and dents. There was a recall for an airbag fault, so make sure that was carried out.
T6 models should have all service stamps in place from either a VW main dealer or at least a specialist. If any are missing, you'll have to wonder why.
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Replacement parts
(approx based on a 2018 California 2.0 TDI 102PS - autodoc ex-VAT) A search online found oil filters in the £5-£25 bracket and less than £10 for an air filter. A pair of front brake discs would be between £45 and £60, depending on the brand you choose. Rear discs are in the £25-£42 bracket. Front brake pads are in the £25-£57 bracket; rear brake pads are in the £18-£43 bracket. A starter motor is in the £61-£102 bracket. An alternator is in the £124-£154 bracket.
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On the road
Most T6-era California models were sold with four cylinder 2.0 TDI diesel power with either 102PS or 150PS power outputs, though Volkswagen did briefly also offer its thirsty 204PS 2.0 TSI petrol unit. There was the option of Volkswagen's super-smooth 7-speed DSG auto gearbox and the brand's 4MOTION 4WD system. As with the Volkswagen Caravelle big MPV model this California was based upon, the cab area up-front is nicely constructed. It features a dash mounted gear stick plumbed into the centre console that frees-up floorspace for better walk-through access to the rear. This configuration shaves vital seconds off the time it takes a parent in the passenger seat to reach the back bench and apprehend a wayward child before they can 'make-over' their brother or sister with a felt-tip pen.
On the move, all variants of this model are impressively refined by class standards, the TDI units getting gruff only when pushed, something which isn't necessary provided you keep in the heart of the rather narrow power band. Complementing all this is a smooth ride which avoids the kind of over-soft bounciness that afflicts many similar campers, especially over typically broken urban surfaces. And the steering's light for easy town use, while being precise enough for reasonable feel at speed.
The driving position and steering wheel are infinitely adjustable. So much so that, from Kylie Minogue to Giant Haystacks, virtually anyone's optimum driving position is attainable - it's just a matter of finding it. There are armrests on each chair too, along with supportive cushioning and fetching two-tone fabric. When stationary, you turn around the front two chairs to face the two in the rear.
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Overall
The California T6 won't suit everyone but the select few whose needs it meets will just love the thing, provided their retirement incomes stretch to the upfront purchase price. Living in a camper doesn't get much easier than this.
Overall, it says a lot that often on the move, you forget you're in a van-based motorhome at all. But then, this model was based on Volkswagen's Transporter, part of the most enduring model line the commercial vehicle industry has ever seen and a vehicle with a greater history of development than any other in its segment. More efficient engines and extra technology for this T6-era model built upon that legacy, cementing this California's proposition in its sector and underlining this product's importance for potential camper customers.
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