Volkswagen has revealed a significantly enhanced version of the California, focusing on improved camping comfort, digital technology and electrified touring capability.
While sharing many of its design changes with the wider Volkswagen Bus family, the latest California introduces several updates specifically aimed at campervan users.
One of the most notable developments is an upgraded stationary air conditioning system available on eHybrid 4MOTION models.
The system can now operate continuously for up to eight hours, allowing owners to cool, heat or ventilate the vehicle while parked, charging or camping without needing to start the engine.
For traditional campers, Volkswagen continues to offer a fuel-powered auxiliary heater, which remains standard on the California Ocean and optional on other variants.
The California is exclusively based on the longer-wheelbase platform and is available in Beach, Coast and Ocean trim levels.
A new Generation special edition joins the range, bringing exclusive styling details and a unique Candy White and Sunset Red metallic two-tone paint finish.
Externally, the California receives the same revised front-end treatment as the new Caravelle, including larger LED headlights with a new lighting signature and a redesigned bumper intended to improve both aerodynamics and visual impact.
Inside, Volkswagen has concentrated on improving everyday usability. A new dashboard design incorporates higher-quality finishes and a free-standing 12.9-inch infotainment display with revised graphics and menus. The Digital Cockpit can be configured in multiple layouts, while illuminated touch sliders simplify climate and audio controls.
The redesigned centre console also enhances convenience, with faster wireless charging and upgraded USB-C ports throughout the cabin. Ambient lighting has been improved, including illuminated cupholders designed to create a more premium atmosphere after dark.
Driver assistance systems have received a major upgrade. The latest Travel Assist package now includes traffic light recognition and assisted lane changes on motorways. Emergency Assist can intervene if the driver becomes unresponsive, safely guiding the vehicle to a stop.
Powertrain options include a 150PS diesel engine, a 204PS petrol unit and the range-topping eHybrid 4MOTION system. Producing 245PS and paired with a 19.7kWh battery, the plug-in hybrid powertrain is designed to provide greater flexibility for long-distance touring while supporting low-emission driving in urban areas.
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Volkswagen has also expanded the colour palette, introducing new two-tone finishes and, for the first time, a matte Indium Grey paint option.
In total, buyers can now choose from 24 colour combinations when pop-up roof configurations are taken into account.
