3 extras you should fit on a new Volkswagen California Beach
In true camper-van tradition, the Volkswagen California Beach has plenty of model-specific features to appeal to recreational vehicle buyers. This extends all the way to a pop-up roof and built-in sleeping arrangements, along with all the convenience- and safety features today’s motorist demands from their leisure transport. But, in true German fashion, there are some nice accessories available from Volkswagen as well. We highlight three of the best.
“Beach” trim is the lower-specification variant of the two-derivative California range, with less power than the high-trim “Coast” variant, and with some features scratched off the specification sheet. It’s still very well-equipped, though, with sleeping arrangements for 4 people (thanks to its flip-up roof tent), parking sensors front and rear, a rear-view camera, LED headlights, and a touch-screen infotainment system included in the standard equipment list.
For those with an individualistic streak, Volkswagen also offers some add-on items to bridge the gap between Beach- and Coast trim levels, without paying the price premium of almost R 160 000 between the two variants. You’ll still have to make do with only 110 kW (instead of the Coast’s 150 kW), but it’s possible to up-spec a Beach to closely match the Coast in most other areas.
1. “Heritage” dual-colour paint (R 33 289)
This is actually optional in Coast trim as well, and really makes your California stand out in any crowd. The most popular combination features a white roof over a vivid red lower body (as shown in the Caravelle in the lead image), evoking memories of the 1960’s surfer vans from which the California draws its inspiration. Other colour combinations are also available. Yes, it’s expensive, but such a dual-colour paint job adds a large dose of individuality, with a respectful nod to the Volkswagen Bus’s history. And, if you’re paying around R1-million for a recreational vehicle, you probably wouldn’t complain too much about this option’s pricetag anyway…
2. Satellite Navigation and infotainment upgrade (R 20 579)
The Beach’s standard-fit “Composition” infotainment system is well-regarded, and for good reason, too: it’s easy and slick to operate, and it incorporates full smartphone integration. But this option upgrades this capable system to the excellent “Discover Media” specification as used in the Coast trim level, with built-in navigation to help you get to those exotic camping spots.
3. Dark tinted glass (R 5 397)
This is the most affordable optional extra for the Beach trim level, and is included in the up-spec Coast’s standard specification. It’s also the most relevant, because it’s doubtful that anyone would appreciate offering the world outside an easy view of their sleeping quarters. Of the three options described here, this one is a definite must-have: in addition to the added privacy it affords, it will also help to keep the California’s cabin temperatures down. And in a sunny camping spot, the value of that feature is really much higher than its comparatively modest pricetag would suggest.
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