New Volkswagen California T6.1 unveiled

Volkswagen has revealed its updated California camper van, showcasing an updated design along with more interior technology.

Called the T6.1, the facelifted California gets the same updates as the T6.1 Transporter, meaning a fresher front-end design with a reshaped grille and new LED headlights. There’s plenty of chrome trim, too.

Underneath the bonnet sits a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine, capable of producing up to 193bhp. The van’s standard setup is front-wheel-drive, though a four-wheel-drive version will be offered as well.

Inside, the California benefits from new kitchen unit, aluminium door handles and redesigned seat upholstery too. The van can also slowly increase the brightness of the interior lights in the morning to make waking up easier – a feature dubbed ‘sunrise function’.

A new overhead colour touchscreen controls the function, as well as the pop-up roof and auxiliary heater. A new infotainment screen has been fitted up front too – either an eight-inch or 9.2-inch screen is available.

Volkswagen has fitted the California with a variety of space-saving functions, such as a camping table integrated into the sliding door and camping chairs stored in the tailgate.

A variety of safety assistance systems now come as standard, including lane assist, trailer assist and a side protection function, which can alert the driver of any obstacles in the vicinity of the van when parking or manoeuvring.

No prices for the T6.1 have been revealed yet, though these are likely to be made available following the van’s full public debut at the Caravan Salon show in Dusseldorf at the end of the month.