The "Bulli" VW California
The different equipment variants of the VW California: Advantages and disadvantages at a glance
The VW California is a popular campervan designed for adventure seekers and camping enthusiasts. With its versatile interior and practical features, the California offers unique opportunities for unforgettable trips. In this article, we take a closer look at the different trim levels of the VW California and analyze their advantages and disadvantages.
- VW California Beach
The California Beach is the entry-level version of the VW California and is aimed at price-conscious adventurers. With an interior that has no or hardly any built-in features such as cupboards or a kitchen, it offers the most space but at the same time the least camping comfort of the three equipment variants. However, due to the lack of built-in features and the continuous 3-seater bench seat, up to 5 people can find a place to sleep in the Beach. This makes the Beach the ideal companion for weekend trips and spontaneous short trips. It offers enough space in the interior and basic features such as a pop-up roof, a pull-out bed and a removable table and two camping chairs. The California Beach is ideal for campers who value functionality and good value for money.
Advantages of the VW California Beach
Price: The California Beach is typically the cheapest model in the VW California range. If you're on a budget, the Beach could be the best choice for you.
Basic equipment: The Beach offers a solid basic equipment that is sufficient for most camping needs. It has a fold-out bed, a pop-up roof, a folding table and an (optional) stove.
Flexibility: The Beach has a minimalist interior that allows for greater flexibility in use. The Beach is therefore best suited as an everyday car for the family, and you can easily adapt the interior to your needs as it has fewer fixed fixtures than the other models.
Disadvantages of the VW California Beach:
Equipment options: Compared to the other models in the California series, the Beach offers fewer features.
Luxury and comfort: While the Beach has basic camping features, it may lack some of the more luxurious features found in the more expensive models.
- VW California Coast
The California Coast is a step up from the Beach and offers additional features and comfort. With a kitchenette, fridge, sink and gas cooker, it allows for greater independence when cooking and eating. The Coast also offers more storage space. This model is ideal for campers who plan longer trips and want more extensive equipment.
Advantages of the VW California Coast
Price: The VW California Coast is generally cheaper than the VW California Ocean. If you're on a budget, the Coast might be the more economical choice.
Equipment : The VW California Coast offers a solid basic equipment that is sufficient for most camping and travel needs. It has a kitchenette with sink, stove and refrigerator as well as seating and sleeping accommodations for up to four people.
suitability for everyday use: The Coast (like the other two models) is compact and handy, making it easier to maneuver in urban areas and narrow streets. It can also be used as an everyday vehicle, not just for camping trips.
Disadvantages of the VW California Coast:
Equipment: Compared to the VW California Ocean, the Coast does not offer the same luxury and high-quality equipment in its basic configuration.
Optional extras: Some of the additional options and features available on the VW California Ocean may not be available on the Coast. This may limit customization options.
- VW California Ocean
The California Ocean is the top model in the California range and offers the most comprehensive equipment. With a fully equipped kitchen, a larger water tank and a shower in the rear, the Ocean offers the comfort of a mini motorhome. It has additional features such as an electric pop-up roof, an integrated navigation system and an auxiliary heater. The California Ocean is ideal for demanding campers who want to be on the road for longer periods of time and enjoy the comforts of home.
Advantages of the VW California Ocean:
Comfort: The VW California Ocean is the top model in the California range and offers the highest level of comfort. It has a fully equipped kitchen with a refrigerator, stove and sink, as well as a double bed in the pop-up roof 1.20 x 2.00 m with disc springs
Luxurious amenities: The Ocean offers a high-quality interior with comfortable seats, numerous storage options and an electric pop-up roof with 3 windows and a front opening.
Technological Features : This model features the latest technological features such as a touchscreen infotainment system, a rear view camera, air conditioning, lane keeping assist, rear traffic assist and an auxiliary heater.
Disadvantages:
Higher price: The VW California Ocean is the most expensive model in the California range. The high price reflects the additional features and comfort, but may be a deterrent for some buyers.
VW Grand California
The VW Grand California is a motorhome based on the Volkswagen Crafter and was developed specifically for the camping and travel market. The Grand California is available in 2 versions. The Grand Cali 600 is 6m long and has a higher body. The 600 can sleep up to 4 people (2 adults, 2 children). The children's bed can be pulled out above the dinette. The other model is the Grand Cali 680. The 680 is only designed for 2 people and has a lengthwise bed behind the bathroom instead of the transverse bed like in the 600.
*On our motorhome rental page you will find more information about the Grand California
Advantages of the VW Grand California:
Spaciousness: The VW Grand California offers plenty of space for passengers and luggage. The motorhome is available in a variety of configurations, including models with up to four sleeping spaces. It has a well-designed interior layout that makes efficient use of living and sleeping areas.
Comfort: The vehicle is equipped with various amenities to increase comfort during the journey. These include a fully equipped kitchen with stove, refrigerator and sink, a wet room with toilet and shower, and a comfortable seating and dining area.
suitability for everyday use: The VW Grand California is not only suitable for travel, but also for everyday use. It is equipped with a variety of safety and driving assistance systems to make driving more pleasant and safer. It also offers sufficient storage space for personal items.
Mobility: Although the VW Grand California is a large vehicle, it is still relatively easy to drive and maneuver. It is equipped with a powerful engine and offers good performance on the road.
Disadvantages of the VW Grand California:
High price: The VW Grand California is not a cheap vehicle. The initial cost can be high, especially when additional options and features are added.
Size and parking problems: Due to its size, it can be difficult to find suitable parking spaces, especially in urban areas or narrow streets. Some users may have difficulty fitting the VW Grand California into smaller parking spaces or underground garages.
Fuel consumption: Due to its weight and size, the VW Grand California can have higher fuel consumption than smaller vehicles. This can lead to higher running costs, especially on longer trips.
Conclusion
The VW California and Grand California are premium vehicles for camping enthusiasts who want a comfortable and versatile adventure. With a wide range of models and features, the California offers a wide choice for every need.
The California camping experience is further enhanced by the right accessories. Whether you drive a California Ocean, Beach or Coast, the widespread availability of the vehicle means you benefit from a wide range of accessories to optimise your camping trip. From practical storage solutions to cool boxes and camping furniture to useful accessories for the interior and exterior of the vehicle, such as an awning for the Bulli or our thermal or weather protection cover for the VW California, with which you can not only extend the camping season, because even colder nights are pleasant in the pop-up roof, but also protect your tent bellows and your mattress if you have to fold up your roof when it is wet after a rain.
The accessories for the VW California meet a wide range of requirements and allow you to create your own individual style and comfort.
Whether you want to use the California for longer road trips or just spend the weekend in nature, the California offers the right equipment and accessory options for everyone.
