Grand California first look
Leading the way: happy campers got their first peek at the super-sized California XXL, the new motorhome from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.
The California goes XXL
Every year in late August, globetrotters come to Düsseldorf’s Caravan Salon to marvel at all the latest camper vans on show. And there’s always plenty to excite them.
The star of last year’s show was the global launch of the California XXL concept, big brother and worthy successor to the popular California.
This summer Volkswagen will be back at Dusseldorf, officially launching the production model based on last year's concept vehicle.
Go big or go home
Although it’s based on the Crafter, the California XXL concept is an all-rounder that’s benefitted from a thorough redesign. It incorporates everything camping enthusiasts love about the California, but on a bigger scale.
Campers get an interior designed for relaxation that offers ample space all round. A roomy living area with front seats that swivel 180° and offers plenty of freedom to move around. And at the end of an adventurous day, campers can get a good night's sleep thanks to a sumptuous two-metre bed and a smaller bed in the alcove. This spacious living is made possible by meticulous interior design and an innovative, re-engineered chassis, featuring an extended rear section.
Of course, the California XXL concept retains key features that have made the California such a hit. These include the twin-burner hob, refrigerator, kitchen sink and the extendible work surface, all placed precisely where they should be. The slide-out bath is truly innovative: the cleverly constructed wet room with shower offers plenty of mobile luxury. So campers can enjoy home comforts wherever their travels take them.
Impressive dimensions. Even better handling
This road warrior navigates every adventure easily. Don’t let its size deceive you: despite an overall height of 2,900mm, the XXL boasts impressive aerodynamic efficiency. This is thanks to special indentations in the redesigned high roof that keep drag at the level of a “normal” Crafter. Air suspension, efficient engines and a wealth of driver assistance systems combine to give this all-round transporter rock-solid handling. While underfloor heating and all-wheel drive offer a comfortable experience, whatever the weather has in store.
We have been dreaming of this for so long, at least since the new Crafter was launched.Auto Bild Reisemobil editorial
The camper van class of the future
With all of this comfort and convenience, the California XXL concept caused a stir at the Düsseldorf Caravan Salon. “We have been dreaming of this for so long, at least since the new Crafter was launched,” declared an editorial in Auto Bild Reisemobil.
Having been immediately impressed, the magazine named the XXL "Best New Vehicle 2017," awarding it the editorial team’s special prize in the Golden Auto Bild Reisemobil 2017 awards (source: AutoBild, issue 09/2017).
Florian Wendt, Head of Overall Vehicle Design, thanked the Auto Bild experts, saying: "With this vehicle, we are projecting the concept of the legendary California into the future and looking to the next biggest camper van class." It’s a dream within touching distance. And is hoped to enter series production next year.
With California XXL coming into production, Volkswagen adds a new chapter to the most successful camper van ever.
Further details about Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles' new camper van will follow in the run-up to the Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf.
