Volkswagen details new Caddy California Maxi

JUST a week after detailing the core versions of its new-generation Caddy line-up, Volkswagen Group Australia (VGA) has released the pricing and specification details of its new Caddy California Maxi compact camper.

Priced from $54,990 plus on-road costs, the miniature Kombi successor will arrive Down Under in the first quarter of 2022 powered exclusively by the 90kW/320Nm ‘TDI320’ turbo-diesel engine as found elsewhere in the ‘Caddy 5’ line-up.

Like the other variants, the force-fed 2.0-litre oil-burner will drive the front wheels though a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

Only the ‘California’ exterior badging gives away the camper’s identity when looking from the outside, however inside it boasts a heap of unique and practical touches to make it as accommodating as possible, i.e. the rear seats that fold down to make a double bed.

Other bespoke touches include darkening curtains for the windscreen, doors and tailgate, two ventilation grids with integrated flyscreens for the front windows, two storage bags for the rear windows, drawers under the front seats as well as a fold-out table and two chairs.

Befitting of that $54,990 pricetag – the most expensive of the Caddy line-up – the California Maxi comes with virtually every piece of standard equipment available across the range, in addition to the camping/adventure-specific features listed above.

Infotainment duties are catered for by an 8.25-inch touchscreen fitted with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, DAB+ digital radio and Bluetooth connectivity while occupants sit on ‘Double Grid’ fabric upholstery.

Other standard kit highlights include dual-zone climate control, a leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel, height-adjustable centre armrest (front), keyless start, digital cockpit, auto-dimming rearview mirror, LED reading light in passenger compartment, LED tailgate surround lighting, AirCare rear privacy glass and heat insultaed windows.

The usual array of airbags, autonomous and driver monitoring systems are fitted too.

Director of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles Australia director Ryan Davies said the Caddy California had great potential for success Down Under, especially while people are looking to get out and explore their backyards.

“We know our Australian customers love a Volkswagen camper, that's been seen recently with the resounding success of our Multivan California, and with the previous generation Caddy Beach,” he said.

“With the new generation Caddy we have an opportunity to once again offer a turn-key customer solution, that is every bit a Volkswagen. Just in time for Australia’s expected return to summer road-tripping.”

As per the rest of the new Caddy range, the California Maxi is covered by VGA’s five-year/unlimited kilometre warranty.

The Australian outfit has sold 422 Caddys (van and people moving versions) so far this year ending July 31 – 659 units less than it managed over the same period last year, however most of the decline can be attributed to waning stock levels in the lead-up to the new model arriving.