New California Ocean

Based on the Multivan

The first notable change is that the California 2024 is no longer based on the Transporteur but on the Multivan. This means that the van retains its iconic silhouette, but above all gains in centimetres. It benefits from the long version of the Multivan at 5.17 m, 27 cm longer than the previous generation of the California. The model is also 4 cm wider (1.94 m), with a wheelbase of 3.12 m. Above all, its height is just 1.99 m. This is an advantage, as it allows access to the majority of underground car parks and, above all, particularly in France, no extra charges at toll booths. Its modern lines are accentuated by the option of a striking two-tone body.

Inside, the van offers an intelligent, modular layout that maximises the space available and accommodates up to four people, ideally a couple and two children. (There is a basic five-seater version, but without the integrated kitchen.) The big innovation is the sliding doors on both sides of the vehicle. A priori, this is the only model in the segment to have them, allowing you to get in and out from both sides. A detail that improves the fluidity of movement. What’s more, the external sliding awning can be positioned on the left or right of the van.

New modularity for more space

Better positioned and larger than on the previous generation, it can be accessed from both inside and outside the vehicle. Once again, a detail that makes all the difference. The van has its own gas hob and tap. This is undoubtedly one of its only weak points: the California has a clean water tank of 29 litres and 22 litres for waste water. Quite low capacities in this segment. Also at the rear, the two seats have replaced the traditional rear bench in one piece. Easier to handle, they enhance the van’s modularity.

By providing more living space, Volkswagen has had to reduce storage space a little. So you’ll have to optimise the volume of crockery when you go on a trip. But isn’t that a blessing in disguise?

When you open the boot, you’ll find a small shower head in a drawer, which may come in handy. More importantly, in the tailgate, there’s storage for two outdoor chairs. The table is stored in the boot. The table can also be slid into the passenger compartment to serve as an interior table. For night-time use, the living space is equipped with well-designed lighting.

Equipped for long journeys

Based on the same platform as the Multivan, the California benefits from a host of equipment, from the 10’ central touchscreen, compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, to the head-up display, 360° cameras and numerous driving aids. The result is a truly comfortable driving experience, with the impression of driving a car rather than a van. Even the driving position is closer to that of an SUV than a van.

Under the bonnet, the California 2024 offers a 2.0 TDI 150 hp diesel engine, renowned for its reliability, combined with a DSG gearbox and 4Motion all-wheel drive. Volkswagen has also announced a plug-in hybrid version for 2025. Acceleration is sufficient. We would have liked a little more dynamism, but the gearbox and engine do their job very well when you need power. Fuel consumption, although optimised, remains high, but again, that’s fairly normal for this segment. If you’re looking for faults, you can nitpick by pointing out some noises made by the furniture while driving, but there’s nothing prohibitive.

The Volkswagen California retains its status as a benchmark in the world of converted vans, combining practicality, comfort and modernity. It remains a first-rate option for travellers in search of freedom, as well as being a vehicle that can be used on a daily basis. Prices for the new California Beach are 56,010 euros (incl. VAT) and 72,180 euros (incl. VAT) for the new California Ocean.