Motorhome test VW Grand California 680

Ob Hymer Visionventure, Chausson X550 or Bürstner Lyseo Gallery – in the golden years of the boom, the motorhome manufacturers seem to be more eager to experiment than they have been for a long time. The VW Grand California also made waves after its premiere at the Caravan Salon 2018. Not least because its interior is more reminiscent of the bridge of the spaceship Enterprise than of a cozy living room. And otherwise?

That’s him: Basically a puffed up VW California that promises just as much lightness, simplicity and lifestyle as its little, iconic brother. Visually it works wonderfully. But wherever the small Bulli is understatement and shines with its versatility, the Grand California 680 with its almost seven meters in length is simply too big to be used as an everyday vehicle at the same time. As a motorhome, the Crafter-based panel van is absolutely successful. This is not only due to the convincing quality of the entire construction and expansion (except for the cooker cover, nothing rattles at all, very clean sealing joints on the high roof), but also to the clever detailed solutions. (Overview: the new vans from the Caravan Salon)

He has: When it comes to room layout, VW is still sticking to a tried and tested longitudinal bed concept. The detailed solutions are surprising: We are impressed by the powerful, pull-out refrigerator, the folding washbasin, the motion detector in the bathroom, the induction charging point next to the bench (54 euros) and the step that moves in and out automatically. The numerous roof compartments are divided into two parts and can be opened upwards and downwards. The division is a matter of taste, but ensures order. In the evening, the color-adjustable ambient light in between (524 euros) creates a bar feeling. Unfortunately, points are deducted for the mattress: The three-part division creates two uncomfortable gaps for visitors at night – VW should readjust here! You won’t find a light switch back there either. The lighting switches off when the California is locked.

This is how he drives: Despite its 6.84 meters, the Crafter is surprisingly light-footed. You actually only notice the length when turning. The narrow silhouette, the ergonomically exemplary seating position, the very precise steering, the DSG transmission (together with the powerful 177 hp diesel, by the way, as standard!) And the perfectly functioning assistance systems such as distance control (1226 euros) and crosswind assistant (standard) ensure that the Grand California feels much, much better in the hand than its sheer size suggests at first glance.