First VW California hybrid on sale now

Planning a staycation with the family this summer? VW's first PHEV camper can be ordered from today

By Matt Bird / Thursday, 24 April 2025 / Loading comments

We all know VW Californias are big business; from April to September every year you’ll do well to avoid them within 50 miles of the sea. Old ones, new ones, middle aged ones - there are always plenty. The ID. Buzz may be the fun new electric thing, but with strong residuals and a great image, it’s easy to see why folk keep hold of the traditional buses. You might remember last year came a big change for the Cali, with hybrid power introduced. Now that PHEV model, the California eHybrid 4MOTION, is on sale in the UK. Nothing better, surely, for this year’s summer hols.

As a reminder, the van boasts a 245hp combination of 1.5-litre four-cylinder and electric motor, the latter supplied by a 19.7kWh battery. Officially there’s an EV range of 54 miles, which should be more than enough for pottering around the campsite or the local lanes of chocolate box cottages. VW suggests that the towing capacity of up to 1,600kg is ‘perfect for those with motorbikes or boats in tow.’ For when the kids are staying with grandparents, perhaps.

UK customers will be offered Beach Camper, Coast and range-topping Ocean models, with all getting sliding doors on both sides, a mini kitchen, an auxiliary heater and a host of in-car charging options. A Type 2 cable is included for replenishing the hybrid battery wherever some charge can be snuck in.

We say that only because, in best California tradition, the new hybrid doesn’t come cheap. Prices kick off at £71,295 for the Beach Camper, £78,495 for the Coast, or £85,395 for the Ocean. So, uh, best really like staying in a van. And think of the residuals. To soften the blow, there are zero per cent finance offers, albeit only on the Beach Camper and with a £35k deposit. Still, you can bet on the seaside being flooded by them in due course. And if more than £70k seems too much for a new holiday home on wheels, don’t forget those Californias that have been pre-loved…