20.03.2025

The new VW California 7 with a Bulgarian premiere at Camping & Caravaning Expo 2025

Premiere of the new California 7 from Volkswagen in Sofia from April 11 to 13.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles presented an entirely new generation of the legendary California camper van. The new model, based on the technological platform of the modern Multivan with a long wheelbase, is more spacious, more intelligent, more refined, more flexible, sustainable and environmentally friendly than ever before.

Innovations and improvements

The new California retains the design characteristics of its predecessors, but introduces numerous improvements and innovations. For the first time, all versions will be equipped as standard with two sliding doors, which significantly increases the functionality of the camper. Another important novelty is the plug-in hybrid drive system and the 4MOTION all-wheel drive system, which provide the ability to drive on all-electric power and a greater range.

Variety of versions

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles will offer the new California in five versions: Beach, Beach Tour, Beach Camper, Coast, and Ocean. This variety allows customers to choose a camper van that best suits their needs and preferences. All versions include a pop-up roof with windows and mosquito nets, and from the Beach Tour version upwards, a new central control unit for managing camper functions is also available, which can also be used via a smartphone app.

Technical specifications and amenities

The new California is based on the Volkswagen Group's MQB modular transverse matrix platform. The body length is 5173 mm, and the width is 1941 mm. The long wheelbase of 3124 mm provides significantly more interior space.

The drive is provided by three different systems with an automatic DSG transmission: a highly efficient four-cylinder turbodiesel engine (TDI) with an output of 110 kW (150 hp), a turbocharged petrol engine (TSI) with an output of 150 kW (204 hp), and a plug-in hybrid drive (eHybrid) with a system output of 180 kW (245 hp) and a 4MOTION all-wheel drive system.

Design and functionality

The new California offers the option of two-tone body paintwork, which is a characteristic feature of Volkswagen Bulli models. The interior is designed with an emphasis on functionality and comfort, offering numerous amenities and smart storage solutions.

The three interior zones

One of the key concepts of the new California is the three-zone interior architecture, which is realized thanks to the two sliding doors. The three zones include:

Zone one: the enclosed living space, offering functionality and comfort for daily travel and recreation. Zone two and zone three: the open terraces created by the sliding doors, which expand the living space and provide a connection with nature.

Function control

The camper functions can be controlled via the touchscreen of the central control unit, via the vehicle's infotainment system menu, or via the California App smartphone application.

The new California from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles represents a significant step forward in the development of camper vans, offering innovative solutions, comfort, and functionality for travel and active lifestyle enthusiasts.