Volkswagen Caddy California. With retractable mini-cooker and panoramic roof

The Caddy California is based on the fifth generation Caddy. Thus, it is the first mobile home to take advantage of the modular building platform for MQB vehicles: the latest technology and a significant increase in space. The new compact motorhome is produced in Poland at the Volkswagen plant in Poznań. These factories are the only ones in the world where Caddy and Crafter models and motorhomes based on them are built from start to finish.

The 4501mm Caddy California will hit the market before the end of this year, with a longer wheelbase version at 4853mm in 2021. The car impresses with thoughtful solutions. Among them, for example, a new folding bed. Thanks to leaf springs and a high-quality mattress, its design provides the same high sleeping comfort as the beds in the T6.1 California and Grand California. The bed is very big. Its dimensions are 1980 x 1070 mm. However, when folded, it shrinks by a third of its length. If in the previous model the second row of seats was part of the structure of the bed, now it is not. Therefore, the second row seats can be removed very easily before driving. And here the Caddy California offers significantly more storage space.

Volkswagen Caddy California. The new kitchenette does

The optional kitchenette on the Caddy California is new to this class of motorhome. It is located at the rear, on the left side of the cargo area, under the bed, and can be easily pulled out when the tailgate is opened. The raised tailgate also keeps rain out while cooking. The new cooker slides out from the rear of the vehicle, giving chefs optimal access and the ability to cook while standing. Mini kitchen consists of two parts. In the upper part there is a single-burner gas stove with wind protection and a convenient shelf. On the other hand, in the lower, retractable part there is a container for cutlery and additional storage space for dishes and provisions. In the back of the kitchen there is a securely closed ventilated box for a gas cylinder (cylinder weight approx. 1,85 kg). Caddy California with kitchenette is approved as a motorhome.

Volkswagen Caddy California. For the first time with 1,4 m2 panoramic roof

The Caddy California can be optionally equipped with a large panoramic roof. At night, the 1,4 m² glass roof offers a view of the stars, while during the day it floods the interior with light. Volkswagen Vans has perfected the practical storage bag system, which can carry items weighing up to five kilograms on each side. These bags hang from the rear side windows. The curtain system has also been improved. Bright curtains on the front side windows and on the rear window are attached using magnets sewn into the fabric. The rear side windows, on the other hand, are covered with storage bags. In addition to magnets, other mounts are used for the windshield and panoramic glass sunroof.

Volkswagen Caddy California. Rideal for camping

New air vents with integrated mosquito nets for the driver and passenger doors, securely held in place by the side windows and door frame, optimize the interior climate when camping. A new system with infinitely adjustable warm white LED lamps allows for individual dimming of the light above the bed. Additional LED lights provide good illumination of the rear of the vehicle when the tailgate is open. Two camping chairs and a camping table are lightweight and practical classics that can be quickly tucked into a new bag under the bed.

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Another novelty: a new modular tent system* that can be combined with the Caddy California. Because this tent is actually freestanding, it can also be used on its own without being connected to a car. If necessary, the tent can be extended by adding a sleeping cabin. This creates enough space for the family and all their camping gear. In this case, two people sleep in the Caddy California, and two sleep in the new tent. Thanks to its pneumatic design, it is quick and very easy to set up. Large windows that can be fully opened provide daylight.

Volkswagen Caddy California. Extensive infotainment systems

The new "Digital Instrument Panel" (optional fully digital instrument panel), radio and infotainment systems with displays up to 10 inches provide the driver and front passenger with a wealth of options. The combination of the Digital Cockpit and the top-of-the-line Discover Pro navigation system with 10-inch display creates a completely new digital environment: the Innovision Cockpit. Via an online connection unit (OCU) with an integrated eSIM system, infotainment systems have access to mobile online services and "Volkswagen We" functions. As a result, the new Caddy California is always online.

Volkswagen Caddy California. Semi-automatic driving and vehicle maneuvering

Among the technical innovations that the Caddy California is equipped with are the latest generation of driver assistance systems such as Travel Assist, a system that allows semi-automated driving over a full range of speeds. Another novelty: Trailer Assist – also makes it possible to partially automate and therefore extremely easy to maneuver the vehicle with a trailer. In total, nineteen different driver assistance systems will be available in the new Caddy California.

Volkswagen Caddy California. Drives and optional all-wheel drive

Thanks to the dual SCR catalytic converter and dual AdBlue injection, nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions are significantly reduced compared to the previous model. The TDI engines will initially be available in two outputs: 55 kW (75 hp) and 90 kW (122 hp). The performance of the TDI engines is further enhanced by the new exterior design of the Caddy California. As a result, the cw value has been reduced to 0,30 (previous model: 0,33), which is a new benchmark for this vehicle segment. An important note for anyone who loves camping off the beaten track is that, like the Caddy Beach, the Caddy California will also be available with 4MOTION all-wheel drive, which is a great alternative to standard front-wheel drive.

* – The tent is part of the Volkswagen accessories offer and will be available for sale at a later date.