At Jackyards, we’re big fans of all things VW vans. So, when VW announced the concept for their new Grand California, we just had to take a good look.
Hierarchy of needs…
First things first. The loo. Let’s face it, the VW Grand California camper van is here to solve the only real major problem with the existing Volkswagen California camper: the lack of an on-board bathroom. In true VW style, they’ve delivered the solution beautifully, with a well-designed and thought out space.
Measuring 840mm x 800mm, the bathroom not only includes a toilet, shower and pull-out sink, it also features shelving with holders for toiletries, towel rails, skylight for ventilation, a cupboard with integrated toilet roll holder – to prevent this from getting damp – and motion-activated lighting as standard. All of these features come at a price though, especially vehicle length. The Grand California is based on the medium-wheelbase Crafter van, with a total length of 5986mm (just a touch shorter than the long-wheelbase Rolls Royce Phantom). For those that want a more spacious van then they can opt for the larger, 680 model, which measures a whopping 6.8 metres and will cost circa £55,000+.
Inside…
It’s impressive. Clearly the design team have put a lot of thought into ergonomics and user interaction. When stepping inside, the first thing you really notice is the space, which is noticeably larger than the current California. White, high-quality cabinets with soft-closing doors add to the illusion of space further, as does the expansive panoramic roof.
Capacity…
The Grand California only sleeps two – in a compartment at the rear. For those with kids, you can add a ‘high bunk bed’ as an option, which also comes with a panoramic skylight so you can read to them and watch for shooting stars.
Connected…
Another nice detail is the speakers that have a dedicated Bluetooth connection, so you can fire up some music via a phone or computer independently of the Grand Cali’s main multimedia infotainment system, which is controlled by a touchscreen in the dashboard.
Kitchen and Lounge…
For quality meal times there’s a four-seater dining table included. For those who prefer to dine alfresco, there’s an external light above the sliding side door. If alfresco dining means wine, which it generally does, then don’t worry as there’s a handy electrically powered step that makes getting in and out of the door easier. For unwanted night visitors, there’s a handy two-part mosquito net to protect the doorway. Once inside, both front seats swivel to face the living area, where you’ll find a double bench seat for two additional bums.
Options…
For those of you with deep pockets, VW promise an array of optional extras including a side-mounted awning, a satellite dish for TV reception, a Wi-Fi hotspot, bicycle rack and, amongst others, an outdoor table and chairs set can be integrated into the rear doors as well. Also available will be an additional roof-mounted air-conditioning system, while the standard gas heating can be upgraded to run on gas - or diesel-electric power. Solar panels will also be available for the roof. Hooray VW!
All in all it’s amazing. Once out there, enjoying the road in this luxury beast, it’s hard to ever imagine ever wanting to come home.