Hybrid. AWD. Efficient. Adventurous. Comfortable
There's a certain romance to the open road—the allure of distant horizons and the freedom to chase them at your own pace. Volkswagen seems to understand this intimately with their latest offering: the California eHybrid 4Motion. This isn't just a camper van; it's a statement about where travel is headed.
Under the hood, they've married a 174-horsepower 1.5-liter turbocharged engine with two electric motors—one on each axle. The result is a combined output of 241 horsepower and an integrated all-wheel-drive system. That means whether you're navigating slippery mountain passes or cruising along coastal highways, you've got the traction and power to do it confidently.
One of the most impressive strides is in the electric range. With a new 19.7-kWh lithium battery pack, the van boasts an all-electric range of about 91 kilometers (or roughly 56.5 miles). That's nearly double what the previous model offered and puts it ahead of competitors like the Ford Nugget PHEV. For most daily drives or short trips, you can rely solely on electric power, reducing both emissions and fuel costs.
Charging has become more convenient too. AC charging speeds have ramped up to 11 kW from the previous 3.6 kW, and it can handle DC fast charging at up to 50 kW. So even if you're planning a long journey, topping up the battery won't be a significant delay.
The all-wheel-drive system isn't just a mechanical feature; it's smart. It uses electronic stability control to detect wheel slip and can send up to 100% of the power to either the front or rear axle as needed. And if you're feeling sporty, a simple switch flips it into permanent all-wheel drive.
Comfort hasn't been overlooked. The ability to run the air conditioning and heating off the battery while parked is a thoughtful touch. It won't keep you cozy all night unless you're plugged in, but it's perfect for those moments when you need a quick respite from the elements without firing up the engine.
Now, let's talk numbers. The base model starts at €77,772, and the full camper version with the kitchen setup comes in at €82,907. Yes, it's an investment. But considering it's only about a 6.5% premium over the diesel version—and for that, you're getting a more powerful, versatile, and environmentally friendly vehicle—it feels like a fair trade-off.
In a world where we're all becoming more conscious of our environmental footprint, the California eHybrid 4Motion offers a way to embrace adventure responsibly. It's a blend of tradition and innovation, capturing the spirit of the classic camper van while propelling it into the future.
If you're someone who yearns for the open road but doesn't want to leave a trail of emissions behind, this might just be the perfect companion for your next journey. It's not just about getting from point A to point B; it's about how you choose to travel in between.
Pros:
- Impressive Electric Range
With a 19.7-kWh battery, the California eHybrid 4Motion offers an all-electric range of 91 km (56.5 miles), nearly double that of the previous model. Perfect for short trips and reducing emissions. - Powerful Hybrid System
Combines a 174-hp turbocharged engine with dual electric motors for a total of 241 hp and improved performance, ensuring smooth and capable handling in various terrains. - All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
The integrated 4Motion AWD system enhances traction in slippery or uneven conditions, providing confidence in bad weather and light off-road scenarios. - Fast Charging Capability
Supports AC charging up to 11 kW and DC fast charging up to 50 kW, allowing for quicker recharges, reducing downtime on long journeys. - Battery-Powered Climate Control
Offers pre-conditioning with battery-powered heating and cooling while parked, enhancing comfort during camping without draining fuel. - Competitive Pricing
The eHybrid variant comes with a modest premium, only about 6.5% more than the diesel models, offering significant advantages for a relatively small increase in cost. - Eco-Friendly Travel
Provides a zero-emissions driving mode, making it a responsible choice for environmentally conscious travelers.
Cons:
- Limited Off-Grid Climate Control
Battery-powered climate control works for only up to 10 minutes when not plugged in, which might not suffice for longer stays in extreme weather. - High Initial Cost
Starting at €77,772 for the base model, the price may still be a barrier for budget-conscious buyers despite its value compared to competitors. - Charging Infrastructure Dependence
For longer trips relying on electric power, access to fast charging stations is essential, which could be a limitation in remote areas. - Reduced Range on Long Trips
While great for short commutes or weekend getaways, longer road trips will rely more on the internal combustion engine, diminishing the benefits of its hybrid system. - Limited All-Electric Speed
The van’s all-electric mode caps at 130 km/h (81 mph), which might feel limiting for highway cruising in some regions. - Weight and Complexity
The hybrid system and AWD add to the vehicle's weight and mechanical complexity, potentially impacting long-term maintenance costs.
