As an extension of the iconic California series, this more extensive and more luxurious model offers you an unparalleled combination of comfort, technology, and versatility - making it an ideal companion for both short getaways and long-term adventures.
As a result, in this buyer's guide to the Volkswagen Grand California you will find out why it is a testament to the German automaker's commitment to innovation and quality in the camper van segment, along with what makes this van ideal for you next camping adventure.
Walk Round The Grand California Campervan
Design
The Grand California, built on the VW Crafter chassis, gives you a robust and sleek design.
Its exterior, characterised by smooth lines and a modern aesthetic, is both eye-catching and functional. At the same time, the vehicle's dimensions allow you to have a spacious interior while maintaining good manoeuvrability on the road.
Inside
Inside, the Grand California is a marvel of modern campervan design. It features a fully-equipped kitchenette, complete with a stove, sink, and refrigerator - allowing for easy meal preparation.
The living area is also thoughtfully designed, with comfortable seating and a dining table that can be converted into additional sleeping space when required.
However, compared to its smaller counterpart, one of the most significant upgrades in the Grand California is including a full wet room. This space offers you a toilet, shower, and sink - providing a level of convenience and comfort rarely found in camper vans.
Technology and Advanced Driver Assistance Features
Volkswagen has equipped the Grand California with various technological features to enhance your camping experience. This includes an advanced infotainment system, climate control, and ambient lighting - allowing you to create a cosy atmosphere in any environment.
The Grand California comes standard with Front Assist with a City Emergency Braking System.
When on the road, these advanced safety features monitor the distance to the vehicle ahead of you - alerting you to potential hazards ahead.
It can even automatically initiate emergency braking in critical situations to prevent or mitigate a collision entirely. Giving you the power and control when you need it the most.
Crosswind Assist
Additionally, this motorhome is equipped with Crosswind Assist - a key component of the Electronic Stabilisation Programme (ESP).
This system is designed to help you maintain control during strong crosswinds. It does so by automatically applying brakes selectively, ensuring stability and safety during such challenging high-wind driving conditions.
Automatic Post-Collision Braking System
Standard on the van, this system activates brakes after a collision to reduce the risk of subsequent collisions from motorists behind you.
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
Also standard, the ACC uses radar technology to maintain a set distance from the vehicle ahead of you - up to 120 meters.
It includes the Front Assist with City Emergency Braking System, which detects dangerous situations and initiates emergency braking at speeds up to 18mph if necessary as well.
Side Protection
Offered as an optional feature, Side Protection uses sensors to monitor the camper's sides - providing you with both visual and audible alerts if the vehicle gets too close to other objects, vehicles, or even pedestrians.
Lane Keeping Assist
As an option, this feature helps prevent unintentional lane departures by counter steering the vehicle back into the lane and alerting you through visual and auditory warnings.
Rear Traffic Alert
As an optional addition, it warns you of approaching vehicles when you are reversing - something that is always handy to have. The system can also automatically apply the brakes to prevent a collision if you do not respond to the alerts.
Park Assist
This optional system assists you in parking by taking over steering control for you while you manage the accelerator and brake pedals.
Light Assist High-Beam Assistant
Another optional feature, this system automatically adjusts the high-beam headlights in response to oncoming traffic or vehicles ahead - switching them on when driving above 37mph in dark conditions to prevent dazzling other drivers.
Electromechanical Servotronic Steering
This standard feature provides speed-sensitive operation with active return - enhancing your steering precision when you need it the most.
Electronic Stabilisation Programme (ESP)
A standard feature designed to maintain directional stability in critical conditions through controlled braking and engine management for you.
Rear-view Camera
This aids you in parking by displaying a limited view behind the vehicle, with guidelines to help you manoeuvre.
Cruise Control
This standard feature maintains a preset speed of over 18mph, effective in various terrain inclines.
Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
The system displays your current tyre pressure and alerts to any deviations in pressure that may need to be topped.
Driver Alert System
The Driver Alert system uses a visual and audible signal to suggest breaks based on detected signs of driver fatigue.
Road Sign Display
The Road Sign Display feature detects and informs you about road signs and current traffic conditions on the road you are on.
Fog Lights with Cornering Function
As a standard feature, this provides you with enhanced visibility and roadside illumination during turns.
Hill Descent Assist
This feature aids you in controlled downhill driving by regulating your engine speed and applying brakes as needed automatically for you.
Hill Start Assist
Hill Start Assist prevents rollback from occurring on inclines - aiding uphill starts.
Lane Change Assist – Side Scan
The side scan feature warns you of vehicles in your blind spots during lane changes.
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
The Anti-locking braking system prevents wheel lock-up - maintaining your manoeuvrability.
Traction Control System (ASR)
The Traction Control System prevents wheelspin from occurring on challenging surfaces.
Electronic Differential Lock (EDL)
Optional on 4MOTION, distributes your engine torque to tyres with the most traction.
Driver and Front Passenger Airbags
This standard feature offers you frontal impact protection, with optional side airbags also available - keeping you safe if the worst happens.
Seat Belt Warning
With the seat belt wanting system, this will remind you to fasten your seat belt with visual and audible alerts if you move off, and this still needs to be done.
Comfort, Convenience, & Sleeping
Regarding sleeping capabilities, this camper van offers you a spacious rear bed with a high-quality mattress - ensuring a restful night's sleep wherever you pull over. The clever use of space and storage solutions throughout the van also means that you and your travellers can carry all your essentials without feeling cluttered.
Accessible Rear Storage Compartment
The rear bed of the Grand California provides ample luggage storage space, easily accessible through the rear wing doors. This is particularly showcased in the Grand California 680 model.
Plate Springs for Optimal Sleep Comfort
Regardless of sleeping position, the plate springs in the Grand California 680 ensure a comfortable night's sleep - balancing both support and softness.
Large Skylights with Features
Two sizable skylights (0.70m x 0.60m), each equipped with Mosquito nets and blinds, enhance the interior.
One is located above the rear bed, while the other is situated over the dining area at the front to give you full coverage.
Cross-Wise Rear Bed in the Grand California 600
Measuring 1.93m by 1.36m, the compact rear bed combines comfort with functionality. Its two-part load-securing system ensures safe storage of your items under the bed during travel. The bed's side-folding feature also adds a convenient loading function to it as well.
Length-Wise Rear Bed in the Grand California 680
Spanning 2.00m by 1.67m and 1.90m by 1.67m, the spacious rear bed in the Grand California 680 is both a comfortable sleeping area and a practical storage solution.
Furthermore, it includes two lower cabinets and a tall wardrobe - with the two-piece load-securing mechanism keeping items secure. The bed also has a side-folding feature for easy loading as well.
Optional Over-Cab Bed in the Grand California 600
This additional bed measures between 1.60m and 1.90m in length and 1.22m in width. It features a larger skylight (0.70m x 0.85m), an aluminium ladder, and two reading lights for added convenience.
It can support up to 150kg and offers you plenty of room for two children. The slatted base is also easily extendable at the push of a button, and the bed includes an enormous skylight above it, equipped with Mosquito nets and blinds for a comfortable and insect-free sleeping environment.
Camping Windows with Mosquito Nets and Pleated Blinds
Designed for optimal ventilation, the camping windows of the Grand California can be opened to two different positions. They are equipped with Mosquito nets to keep insects out and pleated blinds for privacy and light control.
Two-Piece Mosquito Net on Sliding Door
The Grand California features a two-piece Mosquito net for the entire sliding door opening, providing protection against insects while allowing fresh air circulation inside your camper.
Standard Camping Table and Two Folding Chairs
These offer you a convenient outdoor seating solution and can be easily stowed in the storage pockets in the rear wing doors after use for easy storage.
110 Litre Fresh Water Tank and 90 Litre Waste Water Tank
The freshwater tank in Grand California is frost-protected, and both tanks are equipped with fill-level sensors so you can know when to stop topping them up.
Optional Fabric Awning with White or Black Casing
The awning is operated with a hand-held crank - accessible from outside, and stored at the top of the rear panel.
The awning sizes are 2.5m x 3.0m for the Grand California 600 and 2.5m x 3.5m for the Grand California 680.
Kitchen
Extra Work Surface in the Kitchen
The Grand California 600 includes two expandable panels for extending kitchen space when needed. However, the Grand California 680 offers you a more extended kitchen with additional storage and worktop space.
Kitchen with Drawers and 70 Litre Refrigerator-Freezer Combination
The kitchen cabinet provides ample space for kitchen appliances and crockery. An added convenience is also the ability to access the refrigerator from outside if needed, which is especially useful for hot sunny days.
Twin Burner Gas Hob and Sink with Folding Fittings
In the Grand California 600, the kitchen area includes a twin burner gas hob and a sink - both designed for practical use and flexibility. The two-part glass cover also adds to the kitchen's functionality and protects the hob from excessive wear and tear.
Comfortable Living and Dining Area
Featured in the Grand California 680, this area includes a large table and four seats, offering ample dining and relaxation space. The table is also designed to be flexible, and it can slide back against the seating bench's backrest and be stowed in the rear bed area when not in use.
Satellite System for TV Reception
This feature includes a satellite aerial that can be automatically extended or retracted - allowing for convenient TV reception wherever you are.
Solar Panel on Vehicle Roof
The Grand California 600 can also come equipped with a 104W solar panel system located at the front of the roof. In contrast, the Grand California 680 features a more powerful 174W system positioned in the middle of the roof. Both systems are designed to supply power to the second battery, contributing to the vehicle's self-sufficiency - with effectiveness varying based on the sunlight intensity of where you are.
Roof-Mounted Air Conditioning System
An optional air conditioning system with a 2,200W cooling output can be installed on the roof. This lightweight and compact system is intended for use with an external power source while offering additional comfort during hot and cold weather travels.
Electric Hook Up
Thanks to its Electric Hook-Up feature, the Grand California is designed to connect with external electrical sources seamlessly. This functionality is essential for travellers who wish to utilise the full range of amenities the camper offers while parked at campsites or holiday parks.
How it Works
The Electric Hook-Up system for the California is really straightforward. It involves a connection point on the camper that allows you to plug into a campground's electrical supply. This connection provides the power needed for various onboard systems, such as the refrigerator, charging of electronic devices, and interior lighting - without depleting the vehicle’s own battery.
Retractable Step, Electrically Operated
This convenient feature ensures you always get easy access to the van. The step automatically extends when the side sliding door is opened and retracts upon closing - providing you with a seamless experience.
Hot Water & Heating
Water and Air-Based Heater with Gas and Mains Electric Operation
This camper is equipped with a robust heating system. This 6kW system distributes warm air evenly throughout the interior via five air vents. It also stores 10 litres of warm water - serving both the kitchen and wet room.
Heating and Water Heating Options
There is also an option to upgrade the heating system to run on both diesel and electric power if this is more suitable for you. This upgrade is advantageous as it requires only one gas bottle - resulting in weight savings and added convenience for those longer trips when needed.
Fully Equipped Wet & Shower Room
The Grand California features a comprehensive wet room that includes a shower, toilet, and ample storage areas - all designed for maximum functionality. The basin, for instance, ingeniously folds up - providing you with extra space when using the shower or toilet.
Storage shelves are also thoughtfully designed to secure items and prevent them from falling inside. A folding mirror adds that level of convenience and can also be fixed in place.
The wet room, on the whole, also features automatic lighting activated by a motion sensor, providing both indirect and vanity lighting while preserving your leisure battery, and towel storage is handled by a quadruple storage solution - ensuring organisation and accessibility.
Additionally, the wet room is equipped with two drains, complete with a dirt trap and odour trap, to prevent water overflow and to maintain the overall cleanliness.
Performance
The Grand California delivers you a smooth and reliable driving experience on the road. It's powered by Volkswagen's efficient campervan engines, offering a balance of power and fuel economy. This camper is also equipped with a range of safety features, including parking sensors, a rear-view camera, and driver assistance systems, to name a few, which provide you with peace of mind during travel.
Engines
The Grand California is equipped with a robust 177 PS diesel engine featuring front-wheel drive. This engine, boasting 410 Nm of torque and a smooth 8-speed automatic gearbox, is engineered for seamless and efficient performance. Its contemporary design also contributes to a refined driving experience, ensuring you get consistent power delivery, especially when needed.
Included as standard is the 8-speed automatic gearbox. This gearbox efficiently handles the vehicle's high torque, providing uninterrupted power transmission to the wheels. The result is a driving experience that is both convenient and fuel-efficient, especially in the stop-and-go conditions of urban traffic.
An optional 4MOTION all-wheel drive system is also available for those seeking enhanced capability. This permanent all-wheel-drive system intelligently distributes torque between the front and rear axles, delivering you power to all four wheels as necessary. This feature ensures the Grand California maintains optimal traction, adapting seamlessly to various driving surfaces.
Paint Colours and Trims
The Grand California can be customised in several ways. These can include, for instance, in the following colours and internal trims.
- Candy White. Solid paint finish.
- Reflex Silver. Optional metallic paint finish.
- Indium Grey Optional metallic paint finish.
- Reflex Silver/Indium Grey. Optional two-tone paint finish.
- Candy White/Cherry Red. Optional two-tone paint finish.
- Candy White/Mojave Beige Metallic. Optional two-tone paint finish.
- Candy White/Deep Ocean Blue. Optional two-tone paint finish.
- Valley cloth seat upholstery in Palladium
- 17 Inch Lismore. 17 x 6.5J alloy wheels with 235/65 R17 C tyres.
The Grand California 600
The Grand California 600 strikes a perfect balance in size for an exceptional family holiday experience. Measuring 6.00m in length and 2.97m in height, it comfortably accommodates small camping sites without compromising on space. Ideal for a family of four, including two children, it offers ample room thanks to the optional over-cab bed, specifically designed for younger family members.
The Grand California 600 Key Features
The Grand California 600 key features consist of:
- Compact motorhome with multifunctional interior
- Transverse bed with space for two adults
- Optional over-cab bed with large skylight
- Kitchen with gas hob, sink and 70-litre fridge
- Air- and water-based heater powered by gas or electricity as required
- Various USB, 12V and 230V sockets throughout the interior
- Fully equipped wet room with shower and toilet
- 110-litre fresh water tank, 90-litre waste water tank
- Cosy: the large skylight directly beneath the stars
- Homely: the dining area with seating bench and swivel seats
Grand California 600 Dimensions
Grand California 600 key dimensions include the following:
| Grand California 600 Dimensions |
| Front track, mm |
1,773 |
| Rear track with front-wheel drive, mm |
1,788 |
| Width, mm |
2,040 |
| Width across the mirrors, mm |
2,410 |
| Height at kerb weight, mm |
2,970 |
| Ground clearance between the axles when the vehicle is ready to drive, mm |
210 |
| Wheelbase, mm |
3,640 |
| Vehicle length, mm |
5,980 |
| Turning circle diameter, m |
13.6 |
| Interior Living Space Length |
5.98m |
| Interior Living Space Width |
2.04m |
| Interior Living Space Height |
2.97m |
| Optional awning |
2.50m x 3.00m (L/W) |
| Wet room |
0.82m x 0.82m x 1.85m (L/W/H) |
| Number of seats |
4 |
| Standing height |
2.18m – 2.20m |
| Table |
1.16m x 0.55m x 0.75m (L/W/H) |
| Seat bench |
0.45m x 0.84m x 0.53m (L/W/H) |
| Kitchen |
0.98m x 0.40m x 0.88m (L/W/H) |
| Number of beds |
2, +2 |
| Rear bed (cross-wise) |
1.93m x 1.36m |
| Optional over-cab bed |
1.60m x 1.22m left side, 1.90m x 1.22m right side |
The Grand California 680
A Journey of Grand Moments. Let your instincts guide you to explore new places and spontaneously pause at breathtaking spots. The Grand California 680 offers the freedom to craft your travels as you wish. This 6.80m mobile home is not just a vehicle; it's a spacious sanctuary with everything you need for a memorable adventure.
The Grand California 680 key features consist of the following:
- Comfortable motorhome with a sleek, light and airy modern interior
- Longitudinal bed with space for two adults
- Plenty of storage areas, cabinets and stowage space
- Kitchen with gas hob, sink and 70-litre fridge
- Air- and water-based heater powered by gas or electricity as required
- Various USB, 12V and 230V sockets throughout the interior
- Fully equipped wet room with shower and toilet
- 110-litre fresh water tank, 90-litre waste water tank
- Spacious: the cab for an enjoyable journey
- Functional: the kitchen area for ambitious holiday chefs
- Comfortable: the wide rear bed for a good night’s sleep
Grand California 680 Dimensions
Grand California 680 key dimensions include the following:
| Grand California 680 Dimensions |
Dimensions |
| Front track, mm |
1,773 |
| Rear track with front-wheel drive, mm |
1,788 |
| Rear track with all-wheel drive (4MOTION) |
1,766 |
| Width, mm |
2,040 |
| Width across the mirrors, mm |
2,410 |
| Height at kerb weight, mm |
2,840* |
| Ground clearance between the axles |
210 |
| Wheelbase, mm |
4,490 |
| Vehicle length, mm |
6,800 |
| Turning circle diameter, m |
13.6 |
| Length |
6.80m |
| Width |
2.04m |
| Height |
2.84m |
| Optional awning |
2.50m x 3.50m (L/W) |
| Interior |
|
| Number of seats |
4 |
| Standing height |
1.97m – 2.03m |
| Table |
1.16m x 0.55m x 0.75m (L/W/H) |
| Seat bench |
0.45m x 0.84m x 0.53m (L/W/H) |
| Kitchen |
1.40m x 0.40m x 0.88m (L/W/H) |
| Wet room |
0.82m x 0.82m x 1.85m (L/W/H) |
| Number of beds |
2 |
| Rear bed (length-wise) |
|
| Right side |
2.00m x 1.67m |
| Left side |
1.90m x 1.67m |
The Grand California Standard Features
Both models of The Grand California can come with many features, with many as standard. These can include, for instance:
Audio and communications
- Discover Media navigation system with 8" touch-screen and DAB+ audio. USB interface, 4 speakers (2 tweeters and 2 woofers), multi-function display plus Bluetooth®, voice control, Volkswagen Media Control and App-Connect.
Cab area features
- Climatic manually controlled air conditioning with dust and pollen filter and air recirculation
- Driver and passenger swivel seats with armrests, height and lumbar adjustment
- Electromechanical Servotronic steering
- Multi-function display plus
- Rear bench seat with two 3-point seat belts and Isofix
- Rubber floor covering
- Valley fabric seat covers (Palladium)
- 12V socket
Exterior Features
- Electrically adjustable and heated door mirrors
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Manual side sliding door driver’s side
- 75-litre fuel tank with lockable cap
- 180° rear wing doors
Safety and security
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
- Anti-theft alarm system – with interior monitoring, backup horn and tow-away protection
- Automatic hazard lights activation under emergency braking
- Crosswind Assist
- Driver’s and front passenger’s airbags
- Driver Alert System
- Electronic Brake Assist (EBA)
- Electronic Stabilisation Programme (ESP), load adjusting
- Engine immobiliser
- Front Assist with City Emergency Braking System
- Halogen main headlights with range control and daytime running function
- Parking brake with hill hold control
- Remote central locking with 2 remote keys
- Seat belt warning light for driver
- Three-point inertia-reel seat belts for all seats
- Windscreen wiper with variable intermittent delay and wash-wipe system.
Wheels and tyres
- 17 Inch Lismore alloy wheels 6½J x 17
- 235/60 R17C 117/115 R tyres
- Tyre mobility kit instead of a spare wheel. Including 12V compressor and tyre sealant.
Living area
- Dinette with 4 seats and table
- Extendable work surface on 600 model
- Heating and hot water heating powered by gas and mains electric
- Hob with two burners
- Sink with hot and cold water with folding tap
- 70 litre fridge freezer compartment
- Central operating unit with touch control for monitoring heating, lighting and water levels
- Folding chairs and table – stored in rear doors
- Wet room with shower and cassette toilet
- Two-person rear bed – transverse on 600 and lengthways on 680
- Fresh water storage tank – 110 litres
- Gas storage cupboard for two bottles
- Second battery – operating voltage 12V
- Two skylights with sliding blinds and fly screens
- Waste water tank – 90 litres
- Windows with sliding blinds and fly screens
- Multiple USB sockets in cab and living area
- 4 x 230V electrical sockets
- Fully insulated living area with floor, roof and wall insulation
The Grand California Final Thoughts
The Volkswagen Grand California is more than just a camper van; it's a mobile home that blends luxury, functionality, and the spirit of adventure. Whether it's a weekend escape or a cross-country road trip, this motorhome is designed to make the journey as enjoyable as the destination. For those who love the open road and the freedom of travel, the Grand California is a dream come true.
So contact our team to organise a look around this fantastic camper.