Top 5 extras you should fit to your new Volkswagen Caravelle

The Caravelle 2.0BiTDI is pricey, but its standard specification list is generous. Take a look at some of these standard features:

• Multi-function table with separate guide rails in the floor,

• Dust and pollen filter air outlet in driver's compartment,

• Lift-gate power closing (automatic tailgate)

• Side- and curtain airbags stretching all the way to the rear,

• Park distance control and rear-view camera,

• Sat-nav

• Car-Net App-Connect, (Screen mirroring for Apple and Android users)

• A leather multi-function steering wheel. 

• Hill-start assist

• 2 swivel seats

• 3-seater bench (adjustable, with reclining function

• Power seats in front with memory function for driver

• Sunshades

• Cruise Control

• Driver fatigue detection

• Self-adjusting headlights

• Power sliding doors on both sides

 

That's a fair amount of bang for your buck, considering how expensive these features are if you had to specify them individually. But if your budget is limited, why not consider a used VW California Beach?

Related: Volkswagen California Beach camper van now available in SA , from 2016.

Another favourite of ours is the Kia Grand Sedona, another luxury van which is not priced as steeply as the Volkswagen versions, plus it looks less like a bus and a little more like an SUV. We drove the flagship model and loved it! 

Related: 2019 KIA Grand Sedona: Be sure to check these features out

Then, there's also Hyundai's H1. But should you opt for diesel or petrol, rather? Stuart Johnston answers this question in his article, namely Which Hyundai H1 is better - petrol or diesel?

 

Looking for an even older VW bus, still? Why not opt for a 3-4-year old Kombi ?

Related: VW bolsters range of T6 Transporter and Kombi models (2016)

 

 

Which Caravelle is for me?

Well, that depends largely on where you plan to go. We had the top-spec Caravelle 2.0Bi TDI Highline 4MOTION on test. This model is all-wheel drive and like the other two models, it comes with VW's 7-speed dual-clutch DSG gearbox. It even has a rear differential for getting you out of sticky off-road situations. It goes for R 1 027 700.

The entry-level model is the VW Caravelle 2.0BiTDI PanAmericana 4Motion for R962 800 (also all-wheel drive with a rear diff), while the mid-spec VW Caravelle 2.0BiTDI Highline costs R995 200. 

 

 

Options we'd select...

1. Candy White/Cherry Red two-colour top coat (as seen above)

This option is a little steep at R33 289,47, but for the image-conscious buyer it will be well worth it. If you pick Candy White or Cherry Red on its own, you don't pay extra.  You also have free options for seven different metallic colours, with Bamboo Garden Green Metallic being my personal favourite. For two-tone metallic colours you will also have to fork out R33 289, 47, but once you see the Candy White/Bamboo Garden Green or Candy White/Mojave Beige Metallic combos, you'll surely fall in love and throw money at the dealership!

 

2. Seat trim covers in Alcantara/leather

This is a real bonus because it doesn't cost extra... but take it from a mom, just stick to leather because Alcantara suede and ice-cream do not mix.

 

 

3. Black "Cascavel" 17-inch alloy wheels with a diamond-turned surface

Add some additional sexiness to your ultra-van with this free option.

 

4. Refrigerator

Our test model came quipped with a 32-litre fridge which can be heated as well. It steals some room from the boot, but having it available to keep your chops, sandwiches and cool drinks chilled goes a long way, especially if you're travelling long distances. Just don't forget to plug it in. It will cost you R 5 145.

 

5. Tilting and sliding glass sunroof with sunshade (powered)

Let some light into the cabin or let the kids look at the stars or raindrops while you drive. A luxurious extra at R 11 248.