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Volkswagen T6 California Review 2024

Volkswagen T6 California At A Glance

5/5

+Refined and easy to drive, excellent driver and passenger comfort, still the coolest way to camp.

-High list price, sluggish DSG automatic gearbox, limited number of petrol models.

The Volkswagen California is very much a textbook evolutionary approach to the camper van, with the its boxy van-like exterior hiding a comfortable and modern interior that provides upmarket, all-weather accommodation for up to four adults. 

Compared to its T5 predecessor, it looks very similar. In fact, parked side-by-side, you’d only notice that the design of the headlights of the T6 California are a little sharper. There's little else different though. And inside, while the dashboard is slightly glossier and classier (in some versions), the rear living section is almost identical.   

That’s because this California is a thorough overhaul of the Transporter-based T5 model, rather than a clean sheet redesign. It’s the last variant of the latest generation Transporter-based T6 vehicles to be launched, following the panel van, kombi and Caravelle. In fairness to Volkswagen, there was little wrong with the T5 Transporter in the first place, so all the development work has gone into refining from a good base, which seems wise. 

Spend some time in this California and you’ll quickly realise that this is a much-improved camper van. It’s quieter on the motorway, more efficient, better to drive and benefits from some of the most cutting edge media and safety technology that Volkswagen offers in its passenger cars – including automatic low-speed collision prevention braking. The infotainment system also gets full Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.

Two versions are available, called Beach and Ocean, with the former seating five and sleeping four while the latter has one less chair but includes a fully-fitted kitchen. It too sleeps four in the same way. That makes the Ocean model the camper van proper, while the Beach feels more like an MPV with added sleeping facilities.  

The problem is, to literally get the kitchen sink with your California, the list price reaches £50,000 and beyond. That’s an awful lot of money, especially given a used T5 California will sate your camping requirements just as effectively for a significantly lower sum. It’s upon this realisation that the evolutionary approach feels slightly flawed. However, if you want the ultimate camper experience, few vans can match the everyday usability of the T6 California.

Driven: Volkswagen California Ocean

Comfortable, modern and easy to use, the Volkswagen California Ocean is proof that camping needn't be about cold tents, messy guide ropes and air beds that mysteriously deflate during the night.

Read our first drive here >>

1

Driving the Volkswagen T6 California

Much of the development of the California T6 went into refining the driving experience and improving efficiency, rather than strengthening its ability as mobile overnight accommodation. So from the driver’s seat, at least, the T6 model really does feel like a far better van. 

Three engines were initially available at launch, all 2.0-litre TDI diesel units but with varying output: 102PS, 150PS and 204PS. The first of those is only available with Beach specification – without the kitchen – while the other two power Ocean models. Ocean versions can be specified with 4Motion four-wheel drive too. 

The two higher-powered engines are available either with a six-speed manual gearbox or a seven-speed DSG (the 102PS unit comes with a five-speed manual only), but regardless, the overarching feeling is that everything has been refined. Given their additional weight, Ocean models benefit from the automatic transmission, but the DSG is prone to the odd bout of hesitation. Even more so with the higher powered version of the 2.0 TDI. 

Given its van base, things are relatively quiet unless the engine is pushed hard – showing that Volkswagen has listened to criticism of the T5 model - its coarse engines being a major one - and moved to correct them. 

With the 102PS unit equipped, pushing hard is what you’ll be doing most of the time. It has a significant 250Nm of torque from just 1500rpm, but it runs out of puff very quickly, leaving the feeling that it’s really struggling to drag the California’s weight along. 

The 150PS and 204PS units have no such trouble. As usual it’s the mid-range engine that offers the best balance of performance and running costs. With 340Nm, also peaking at 1500rpm, it’s a very punchy performer and makes light(ish) work of even kitchen-equipped Ocean models. 

In that context, the 204PS unit doesn’t feel as quick as its stats suggest: 450Nm at 1400rpm. It’s the difference between getting to 62mph in just over 14 seconds or just under 11 – which is no difference at all, really. 

In 2017 Volkswagen added the 2.0 TSI petrol to the range with 150PS or 204PS, with the latter limited to the seven-speed DSG automatic gearbox. Advertised economy for the petrols ranges from 29-30mpg.

The petrol engines were withdrawn from the range in mid-2018, along with the 102PS diesel. The 204PS version was also reworked to 199PS.

Regardless of engine, the California does a great job of shutting out wind and road noise, and the ride quality is excellent, which at motorway speeds makes this a very refined van for long distance travel. Clearly, it’s never going to be the sharpest thing on the road, but the steering is accurate and visibility is all encompassing, owing to the large windscreen and huge door mirrors. 

The California still can’t hide its van DNA entirely though, largely because of a compromised driving position that puts the seat too close to the wheel and pedals, making for slightly awkward arm and leg positions on the controls. But with safety equipment including a driver alert system, low speed automatic braking to help avoid collisions, hill hold control, ESP and lane change assistant, it’s safer and easier to drive than ever before.

Volkswagen T6 California interior

The vast majority of the changes from T5 California to T6 California are unseen, but those you can see are largely at the front of the cabin. The front seats, for example, are among the best you'll find in any car or van when it comes to comfort, with lots of firm padding for upper leg and lower back support. As a result, you can cover huge distances in comfort. 

Behind the front seats it’s business as usual, so both the Beach and Ocean models sleep four with a setup that comprises a rear double bed and a pop-up roof that unveils a further double mattress ensconced within canvas sidewalls.

Whether a five-seat Ocean or four-seat Beach model, the double bed is massive, comfortable and easy as pie to operate – a couple of lever pulls and the rear chairs are flat and ready to sleep on. In Beach models the pop-up roof is manually operated, whereas in the Ocean it’s electric.

Anyone with any experience in a T5 California will be very familiar with the T6 Ocean’s kitchen – the architecture is identical, save for an additional rail, cup holder and a couple of shelves. Volkswagen’s view is that redesigning the kitchen would be pointless – like rearranging a utility room. It worked perfectly well before and it still does.

It remains a quality environment - wood veneered, easy to use, hefty and surprisingly adept at swallowing oddments. There’s a 30-litre fresh water tank and another of identical volume for waste, while the fridge stays at 42 litres – big enough for a good couple of days’ worth of food. 

As before, the front seats swivel with ease, allowing the occupants to face each other, and the cabin area feels surprisingly spacious in both the Beach and Ocean models. 

A roll-out awning provides shelter from the rain, a removable table is mounted in the sliding door and pair of deckchairs in the tailgate give you somewhere to sit outside. And if it gets too cold, the auxiliary heater warms the cabin in seconds. All told, the usually dreary reality of pitching up on a field somewhere wet and cold – classic camping in the UK – is very well catered for with a California. You can also hook it up to the local electricity supply, via an all-weather cable, which allows you to use the lights, fridge and power sockets without fear of draining the battery. 

The Ocean model comes with what Volkswagen calls the 'premium dashboard', while the cheaper Beach model doesn’t. The design is the same for both – lifted from the Transporter – but the Premium dash adds high-gloss covers for the oddment spaces and some glossy trim.

It does actually make a big difference and goes some way to making the Ocean’s £50,000-odd price tag feel less harsh – though similarly, Beach drivers might feel they too deserve that dashboard in their £40,000 camper.

Model History

June 2015

New Volkswagen California launched

Based on the recently revealed Transporter T6, the new California offers a host of improvements and new features for buyers who want the ultimate home from home.

The new California is the fourth model to bear the name. The range incorporates all the key features introduced on the new Transporter T6, including new, more efficient engines that are up to 15 per cent more economical than the outgoing units. The new California also features a range of advanced technologies designed to make life safer and even more enjoyable for occupants. These include driver assistance systems, a completely refreshed infotainment system and the availability of adaptive suspension.

The launch engine range includes both diesel and petrol options, along with DSG and 4Motion four-wheel-drive. Power outputs for UK models range from 102PS for the entry-level 2.0-litre TDI engine (Beach models only) up to 204PS for the 2.0-litre TSI petrol unit (Ocean models only).

Naturally, the new California retains the legendary practicality and storage ingenuity of its predecessor. Available in two forms; Beach and Ocean (which replaces the current SE model), the California can sleep four occupants courtesy of its acclaimed pop-up roof (electro-hydraulic on Ocean models) that neatly integrates a 1.2m x 2m double bed.

Ocean models also feature a fully-equipped kitchen, complete with 42-litre refrigerator, twin-burner hob and stainless steel sink unit. Ocean models also gain a dimmable LED lighting system for the pop-up roof and tailgate and a clever multi-functional holder for the rear compartment that incorporates a cup, ashtray and towel holder all in one.

July 2015

Volkswagen California prices announced

Prices start at £37,657 (RRP OTR inc VAT) for the Beach model. Continuing a campervan tradition which spans more than 60 years, the Volkswagen California is the only vehicle in its class to be designed, engineered and built in-house.

The new California is available in two trim levels – Beach and Ocean – and with a choice of three 2.0-litre engines ranging in power from 102 to 204 PS. All are EU6 compliant and feature BlueMotion Technology modifications to give fuel consumption and emissions figures which have been lowered by up to 15 per cent. A 4MOTION four-wheel drive version is also offered in conjunction with the 150 PS or range-topping 204 PS powerplant.

Entry to the California range starts with the Beach model which offers up to seven seats and sleeping space for four. The bench-seat easily folds to convert to a two-berth bed across the width of the vehicle, while a manual pop-up roof gives access to a further double bed. A fold-out table and chairs are cleverly stored in the sliding door and tailgate, while an integrated awning makes for a comfortable and practical camping experience. The Beach is available with a 2.0-litre 102 PS TDI engine with a five-speed manual gearbox, and a 2.0-litre TDI 150 PS with a six-speed manual or seven-speed DSG transmission.

The California Ocean replaces the SE model from the previous generation, with prices starting from £47,840 (RRP OTR inc VAT). Customers can choose from two engines with either 150 or 204 PS and six-speed manual or seven-speed DSG gearboxes. 4MOTION four-wheel drive variants mean the ultimate ‘home from home’ can go further and wider afield. The Ocean also adds an electro-hydraulic pop-up roof with lighting, plus a kitchenette with two rings, a fridge and sink.

July 2017

2.0-litre TSI petrol engines added to California T6 range.

Buyers can choose between two 2.0-litre (1984 cc) TSI units that develop 150PS and 204PS. The latter is equipped with a seven-speed DSG gearbox as standard and available for front- or four-wheel drive, while the former comes with a six-speed manual transmission and front-wheel drive only.

Maximum torque is 280Nm from 1500 to 3750rpm for the 150PS version, and 350Nm from 1500 to 4000rpm for the 204PS. The units are available for order now, and can be specified across the Transporter range, including in California, Caravelle Executive, window van, Shuttle, motor home, kombi and panel van variants.

April 2018

California Edition launched

Available on both Beach and Ocean models, Edition combines an improved design and equipment package with the practicality and design of the standard California.

Beach Edition models are priced from £52,985 OTR with range-topping Ocean models priced from £65,879 OTR.

The Edition on California Beach has the 2.0-litre TDI 150PS engine while the California Ocean uses the 2.0-litre TDI 204PS. Both are equipped with Volkswagen’s seven-speed DSG transmission as standard, along with a raft of additional equipment designed to make life on-board even more comfortable.

In terms of exterior styling, both Beach and Ocean Edition models feature 17-inch Cascavel alloy wheels with black inlays, black gloss contrast roof and door mirrors and LED headlamps as standard. The design package also includes unique Edition decals, rear privacy glass and front side windows made from heat-insulating glass.

To help owners find their perfect pitch on the campsite, both models are equipped with Discover Media navigation system with App-Connect and front fog lights with cornering function, with the Ocean model also coming with a premium multifunction colour display.

Inside, the Beach Edition comes with a leather-trimmed multi-function steering wheel, comfort dashboard and Climatronic 3-zone climate control with allergen filter and auxiliary heater. The higher-spec Ocean adds kitchen cupboards finished in white wood, an outdoor shower connection and a bed extension with comfort sleeping mat. Ocean Edition buyers also benefit from additional comfort lighting in the passenger compartment.

November 2018

Volkswagen California 30 Years edition launched

The California 30 Years is a limited production run special with just 999 scheduled for build. Of these, just 30 examples will come to the UK.

Based onthe range-topping California Ocean model, the 30 Years special adds a host of additional equipment, along with bespoke design details. All examples come with a numbered plaque on the B pillar, full LED headlamps, removable towbar and a contrast roof and wing mirrors finished in either Reflex Silver or Indium Grey metallic. Customers can also select a brand new colour – Turmeric Yellow – which is available for the first time on the California range.

Inside, it has Volkswagen’s Discover Media Navigation Pro infotainment system as standard, along with front and rear parking sensors, side scan and cruise control and heated front seats.

Power outputs from the 2.0-litre TDI engine are either 150 or 199 PS, all have a seven-speed DSG gearbox as standard, and the range-topping 199 PS version is available with 4MOTION four wheel-drive.

Prices start at £64,307 (OTR) for the 2.0 TDI 150 PS model and rise to £70,629 (OTR) for the range-topping 2.0 TDI 199 PS 4MOTION variant.

July 2019

California 6.1 announced

The key technical change in terms of handling is the switch from hydraulic to electro-mechanical power steering. As a result of now having a steering system that can be actively controlled, the California 6.1 gets numerous new driver assistance systems.

The extended range of systems includes Lane Assist, Park Assist, a side protection function (warns of obstacles when manoeuvring) and Trailer Assist (simplifies manoeuvring with a trailer). Also included as standard will be Cross Wind Assist; it automatically stabilises the camper van in the event of strong winds.

The California 6.1 is offered with the familiar 2.0-litre turbodiesel, paired with a six-speed manual or seven-speed DSG auto.Engine outputs span 102PS - 199PS, while emissions and fuel economy meet the latest WLTP standards.

Driver and passenger safety has been improved, with the option of a side-wind compensation system that will automatically adjust the power steering so the driver doesn’t have to continuously countersteer against heavy side winds. Volkswagen’s semi-autonomous trailer assist is also offered for the first time on the California, allowing the van to steer the trailer automatically when reversing at low speeds.

The cabin has been given a complete overhaul, with a new dashboard that includes the option of a fully digital instrument cluster. The multifunctional camper control unit in the roof console - that operates the electric pop-up roof, fridge and heater on Ocean models - has been redesigned and digitalised, while a built-in eSIM provides real-time fuel prices and traffic reports via the touchscreen infotainment screen.

The beds will from now on provide even greater comfort. The high bed is equipped with a sprung base, while the double rear bench seat that folds out to create a bed can also be transformed into a lounge. Simply fold down the backrest and raise the bed extension at the very back up to the desired height – and the interior transforms itself into a cosy lounge for reading and relaxing.

Increased protection from too much incoming light is provided by the now darker grey canvas sides of the pop-up roof with integrated top bed. Waking up, meanwhile, is made particularly pleasant by a new sunrise function that uses individually selectable LEDs in the roof and living area to dim up the lights to the desired level of brightness deliberately slowly over a user-definable length of time.

The sunrise function is controlled – like all main camper settings in the California 6.1 – via the newly developed control panel in the overhead console. The previously used monochrome display has been replaced here by a large, full colour touchscreen with considerably more functions.

All sorts of information can be accessed via the control panel and numerous features controlled, including the following menu items: ‘Camping’ (mode), ‘Cool Box’, ‘Light’ and the ‘Set-up’ of the system. In the California Ocean 6.1 the pop-up roof, in this case with electro-hydraulic operation as standard, is additionally controlled via the ‘Pop-up Roof' menu and the air heating that also comes at no extra charge in the top model via ‘Auxiliary Heating’.

An extremely practical feature is the new ‘Level’ function: a level indicator shows the lengthways and crossways angle at which the California is parked on the campsite. That makes it very easy to get the Bulli level. The sunrise function, meanwhile, is on the ‘Light’ menu and activated via ‘Alarm’.

For the first time, the instruments are optionally digital – the new ‘Digital Cockpit’ on the new instrument panel. The infotainment range has also been reconfigured. It begins with the Composition Audio (line display) and Composition Colour (6.5-inch touchscreen).

A new feature of the California 6.1 is the use of two navigation systems, Discover Media (8-inch touchscreen) and Discover Pro (9.2-inch), from the third generation of the Modular Infotainment Matrix (MIB3). The most important new feature of all systems is an integrated eSIM (optional for Composition Audio). It forms the interface to Volkswagen We and thus to numerous online functions and services.

Over and above this the MIB3 systems provide features such as integration of the Apple Music and TIDAL streaming services, natural voice control and App Connect Wireless. Thanks to this new version of App Connect, iPhone apps such as the Media Library and Google Maps can for the first time be incorporated wirelessly into the infotainment system via Bluetooth.