Volkswagen California SE 2.0 BiTDI 4MOTION DSG 4dr Car Review - April 2012

The driving seat of the Volkswagen California is of the armchair style that tends to be favoured in motor homes, and this offers a great forward view of the road, but rear visibility is not so good. The California is a big vehicle and is similar to drive to a transit van, although it is significantly heavier meaning that it doesn't handle particularly well. It is also worth taking time to get used to driving a large vehicle on roads you are familiar with to get used to the vehicle, as the steering is light, but different to that many people may have experienced previously.

The diesel engine is one that offers decent performance in a van, but with the California there is a significant amount of weight, so this does affect how quickly the vehicle moves. Acceleration from 0-62mph is achieved in a ponderous 15.7 seconds, while the top speed of 106mph is one that will rarely be troubled by most drivers, as it does come with significant noise from the engine and wind noise.

The California is designed for practicality rather than good looks, and it doesn't have the distinctive front end that was found on the iconic VW camper vans of decades gone by. The privacy glass is not only practical in such a vehicle, but it also improves the look of the car, and the alloy wheels also help to improve the exterior image. Inside the armchair seats are very comfortable in the front, while the clever solutions for the storage of all the equipment is also very clever, and the interior is attractive as well as practical.

The level of equipment found in this version of the California is very good, with a kitchen featuring a fridge and a hob. The vehicle also has satellite navigation which is very useful for those exploring areas where they haven't visited before.

The California is a very practical vehicle, and apart from toilet facilities offers much of what the majority of people will need to be self sufficient on holiday. It can carry up to seven people, and has sleeping room for four, and also has ample storage space throughout the vehicle. Volkswagen has an excellent reputation for making practical cars, and the California follows in this vein.

Because of the size and weight of the California, there are a number of driving aids that help to control the power from the engine and to keep the vehicle stable. There are also airbags to help protect those in the front of the vehicle in case of an accident.

This version of the California has a list price of £43,575, and is significantly more expensive than the entry level Beach model, but does have the added functionality of a kitchen. Camper vans are quite a small market, so the range of competition for the California is quite limited.

The running costs for the California won't provide too much respite either, as the heavy weight and bluff shape does affect fuel efficiency. The 2.0 litre diesel engine is able to deliver an average 36.7mpg. The insurance costs aren't cheap, but the California does boast very good resale values because of the desirability and practicality of the vehicle. The California is supplied with a three year or hundred thousand mile warranty.