Volkswagen has introduced the new California Beach model, which is an entry-level camper offering added value and more versatility with seating for up to seven people. 2012 Volkswagen California Beach is priced from £34 970 RRP.

The interior boasts seating for up to seven people is available with a two-, or three-, seat rear bench, and further optional individual chairs.  The front seats swivel to face the rear and a portable table, neatly stored in the sliding side door, can create a sociable lounge area.  In addition, two folding chairs are stored in the tailgate.

The California Beach is powered by a choice of 2.0-litre TDI engines. There is also a new 114 PS BlueMotion Technology variant with optimised fuel efficiency and lowering emissions. This engine comes with a 5-speed manual gearbox, cruise control, Stop/Start system, brake regeneration and low rolling resistance tyres, it offers a combined fuel economy figure of 40.4 mpg and a CO2 output of 184 g/km.

The more powerful 140PS version has 6-speed manual gearbox. It returns up to 36.7 mpg on the combined cycle with CO2 emissions of 203 g/km.

The standard equipment of California Beach includes 16" Miyato alloy wheels, air conditioning and a CD/radio with 8 speakers.  The choice of Sunny Yellow exterior paint and Takato upholstery are exclusive to Beach models.

The options list includes larger alloy wheels, a 32-litre cool/warm box (powered by second leisure battery), programmable parking heater, an awning, privacy glass, double glazing and Bluetooth mobile phone provision, plus satellite navigation with Western Europe mapping pre-loaded to an internal memory and xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights,

2012 Volkswagen California Beach

Volkswagen California Beach (2012) - picture 1 of 2
Volkswagen California Beach (2012) - picture 2 of 2

Source: Volkswagen