Try out #vanlife with a VW Caddy California - Select Van Leasing
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Try #VanLife before you buy with a Volkswagen Caddy California

If you fancy the idea of a compact van-based camper, but you’re unsure if you’re ready to commit to a multi-year lease deal, then Volkswagen has the answer - it will let you ‘Try Before You Buy’ the new Caddy California.


The Caddy California completes Volkswagen’s camper line-up alongside the larger Transporter-based California and the huge Crafter-based Grand California.

The Volkswagen Caddy California camper

Based on the Volkswagen Caddy, as the name suggests, the California adds a foldable bed with cup springs and a high-quality mattress, which stores in the parcel shelf and opens out above the rear seats. 

You’ll be able to use There’s enough seating for five, and the second row is entirely removable for complete flexibility. A standalone tail-tent provides additional living space and a sleeping compartment, and is available as an accessory.


A retractable mini-kitchen extends from the rear with a single-burner cooker and integrated gas bottle. There are ample stowage compartments for storing cutlery and kitchen utensils, while California camper chairs and table come as standard too. 

The Caddy Calfornia is available in two wheelbases - the simply names Short Wheelbase and the longer Maxi model - and with the choice of three engines, ranging in power from 102hp to 122hp.

Both six-speed manual and seven-speed automatic gearboxes are available, too. Whilst well equipped as standard, a long list of options and accessories also means you’ll be able to create the perfect slice of California for your needs.

The 'Try Before You Buy' deal


Potential customers can now hire the compact camper for a week without committing to any lease or purchase deal. However, Volkswagen will charge a £499 deposit if you do take up the deal, which is then refunded if you go on to take delivery of a Caddy California.

Booking a trial run is done via the VWFS Rent-a-Car website, where you’ll be able to reserve a slot and then collect the camper from a local Volkswagen Van Centre for the seven-day trial.

David Hanna, Head of Sales Operations at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, said: 

“The Caddy California is our newest entry into the camping segment and means we can now provide a camper for every budget and adventure. We know it’s a one-of-its-kind model that people won’t have experienced before, so we want to offer customers the chance to find out just how special it is for themselves. This innovative scheme ensures that our customers choose the right van for their needs.”


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Monday, 22/04/2024