Volkswagen has launched an all-new California camper van this year, based on the Multivan instead of the Transporter for the first time. However, VW isn't ignoring the bigger, Crafter-based Grand California, and is giving its biggest factory-built camper an update for 2025.
So, what's new?
As before, the Grand California is offered with two wheelbase options, and it's still the only California model with a built-in bathroom. New for 2025 is 'Atami Bamboo' trim for the tabletop and the work surfaces of the kitchen area. There's new flooring too, made of a durable PVC material, and a tap for the sink, which is now finished in black. VW says that this gives the Grand California a classier look than the previous white trim, and lends the big camper van 'an almost Mediterranean yacht character.'
Any other changes?
There are a few other details. The portable table can now be easily clipped to the outside of the kitchen unit, so that, as VW puts it, 'meals or an evening glass of wine can be enjoyed in the open air.' The upper storage compartments now also get luggage nets so that your bits and pieces don't fly around the place when you're on the road, while on the options list, there's now a new custom-fit thermal mat and blackout set for the windows in the cab.
Anything else?
The Grand California was actually given an update in 2024, which brought along digital instruments and a new free-standing 10.4-inch (or optionally 12.9-inch) touchscreen infotainment system. There were also extra active safety systems fitted last year, and for the first time, an electronic parking brake, which replaces the old mechanical handbrake, and which means it's easier to turn the driver's seat around when in camping mode.
If you want an early look at the updated Grand California, you'll be able to see it at the Caravan Salon show in Düsseldorf from 29 August to 7 September.