New vs used Volkswagen California (T6.1): what are the top 6 differences?

With the imminent release of the 2020 T6.1 Transporter, we look at six changes that are set to make their way into the Volkswagen California.

By Chad Lückhoff

Published: 8 April 2020, 14:29

The Volkswagen California is the embodiment of social Volkswagen. With a steep heritage of campers vans, beach buggies and various other leisure vehicles. The California has built on that by providing an all-in-one solution for the wandering explorer, featuring an expandable roof section, built-in sleeping arrangements and a functioning kitchen.

Built on the Volkswagen Transporter, California is a camper van unlike any other. A turn-key solution for holidays and adventure. Equipped with a fuel-efficient 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine, producing either 110 or 150 kW depending on the model, and mated to a 4Motion all-wheel-drive system, the California is ready to go anywhere you want and keep you dry in the process.

For the 2020 model year, the new T6.1 California includes a host of updates and innovations that promise to make life even more enjoyable for those on the road.

Related: Volkswagen tees-up for a busy 2020, including the launch of the new Golf 8.

Here's what will be changing with the upcoming release of the T6.1 Volkswagen California.

1. LED headlights

In keeping with the times, the new T6.1 will be fitted with LED headlamps as standard. These will help improve visibility at night and will provide a longer headlight lifespan. LED Daytime Running Lights will also be standard across the range.

2. New bumpers

The T6.1 will receive a fresh new look to complement the LED headlight treatment. The upper half of the bumper will house a grille that ties in with the new headlights while the lower half sees the addition of a black grille that extends to the outer corners of the bumper. Chrome detailing will be found on the Ocean model whereas the Beach model will be devoid of such trimmings.

3. Interior updates

The transformation continues to the interior where interior outfitters, VWCV, have been through the cabin to make it more comfortable and user-friendly. As such the cabinets now feature aluminium handles and push-button catches for the sink, cooker and fridge. The rear shutters have been replaced with sliding doors.

4. Improved comfort

For the models fitted with the sleeper arrangement, the two beds have been redesigned to improve sleeping comfort. The main bed pulls out from the seating arrangement and also doubles as a lounge now, with reclinable backrest. The upper bed has been fitted with a sprung mattress.

5. Improved steering feel

All models in the T6.1 range will see the switch from an electronic power steering system to a more traditional hydro-mechanical setup in order to improve steering feel and driver feedback.

6. Digital tech

For the first time, buyers of the T6.1 California will have the option of specifying the campervan with a full-digital display system, the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit. This will tie into the optional Discover Media or impressive 9.2-inch Discover Pro infotainment system, complete with Volkswagen We compatibility.

The 2020 Volkswagen California is yet to be launched locally and specifications may change without notice.