Volkswagen unveiled the redesigned Caddy
earlier this year and now they’re following up with the new Caddy California.
Billed as “rethought, redeveloped and redesigned,” the model is a compact
camper van which replaces the previous Caddy Beach.
While it looks like a traditional Caddy on
the outside, the California features a host of camper-friendly upgrades inside.
One of the most notable is a new fold-out bed which features cup springs and a
“high-quality” mattress. It folds up to fit in the boot when not in use, and
has enough room underneath to store two chairs and a camping table.
Speaking of the bed, you can now sleep
under the stars thanks to an optional panoramic glass sunroof. If you have to
get up during the night, there’s dimmable LED spot lights mounted above the
bed. After a night of camping, you’ll probably work up an appetite. Thankfully,
the model offers a newly optional “mini kitchen” which resides beneath the bed
and can be pulled out once the rear hatch is opened.
The kitchen consists of two slide-out
components including an upper section with a gas cooktop and a wind shield. The
lower section features a cutlery tray as well as storage space for cooking
utensils and provisions. Speaking of space, the model features a storage bag
system for the rear side windows. Each zippered bag can hold up to 5
kg of gear.
Since the Caddy isn’t the ideal choice for
a family camping trip, Volkswagen has developed a modular tent system which can
be connected to the van. When ordered, two people can sleep in the Caddy while
two more sleep in the tent. On the vehicle side of things, the Caddy California
will be offered in two different lengths measuring 4,501 mm and 4,853 mm. Customers will also be able to choose from TDI engines
with outputs of 74 hp and 120 hp. The model
will also be available with an optional all-wheel drive system for those who
like to camp off the beaten path.
Other highlights include an available digital
instrument cluster and an infotainment system with up to a 10-inch display.
Volkswagen also said the camper van will be offered with 19 driver assistance
systems including a semi-autonomous Travel Assist system. The Caddy California
will be launched later this year, while the longer variant will arrive in 2021.