For decades the VW Bulli has not only been a commercial vehicle, but also a camper van. At that time the renovations were still called Westfalia, but now they are in the much more modern name “California”. It all sounds a bit gray, but it isn't - on the contrary. The commercial vehicle from Hanover impresses with its attractive two-tone paintwork, as well as with extensive equipment and an electro-hydraulic pop-up roof.
Ever since Volkswagen brought out the T6 as “Generation Six”, the big van has been seen driving on our roads quite often. Usually in white and red, the not so rustic commercial vehicle attracts attention. The strategists at Volkswagen have probably recognized this and are now bringing out the VW T6 California as a “Ocean” special model. The two-tone paintwork in "Ocean Red", "Ocean Blue" - as in the cover picture - or in "Ocean Gray" stands out. Although the Hanoverian is also available in other paintwork, the mix of a colored unit in the lower area and a white unit in the upper area suit the Bulli perfectly.
That can also be said about the standard 17-inch alloy wheels, which provide a certain retro charm. In addition, there are full-LED headlights that make the view of the T6 appear concentrated. Darkened light units are added at the stern. Inside, however, there is no space for the retro look, only for the passengers and their camping equipment. You take a seat on noble Alcantara seats, while your feet find a floor in “Dark Wood” or “White Wood”.
So that you can live up to the real purpose of the California - camping - the roof can be raised electro-hydraulically, creating a 1,20 x 2,00 meter bed area. The standard auxiliary heating ensures cozy warmth on cold days, while the double glazing lets as little noise and heat as possible into the vehicle. In addition, the VW T6 California as “Ocean” offers automatic air conditioning and a closing aid for the sliding door.
The folding reclining bench in the rear under the double bed can be adjusted so that another sleeping area is created here. It is right next to the on-board kitchen - how practical. So after getting up you can not only wash your face in the stainless steel sink, but also take the eggs out of the 42 liter refrigerator and cook them on the two-burner gas cooker - fantastic.
Of course, all of this comes at a price - which was to be expected. Of course, a T6 is not a cheap pleasure. But in view of the extensive equipment, the good 63.400 euros seem reasonable. The Bulli then only offers a 100 hp (weak) TDI engine, but with this vehicle the way is the goal. In addition, the course relativizes when you compare a motorhome with this equipment to the Hanoverian. So: nothing like going to the campsite.