The Latest Volkswagen California Camper Van Serves as the Ultimate Beach Cruiser

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By Car Brand Experts


Recently, Volkswagen introduced a fresh iteration of its compact camper van before launching their other van. Known as the Surf version of the Transporter 6.1, this beauty is essentially a small residence on wheels, sans the bathroom facilities.

Equipped with a compact kitchen, a pop-up roof, and foldable seats to accommodate up to four individuals, it is propelled by a 150-hp 2.0-liter turbo-diesel engine that powers the front wheels via a 7-speed automatic dual-clutch transmission.

While the Surf camper van isn’t the most luxurious option in the Transporter 6.1 lineup, it comes with a steep price tag starting at slightly over $82,000 (£68,234). However, acquiring one might be challenging, as Volkswagen has shown minimal interest in marketing these campers in the United States, attributing it to costly federalization procedures and surprisingly low demand, even in Europe.

Although the likelihood of seeing one in the U.S. is slim, there’s no denying the Surf’s appeal. With a two-burner stove in the kitchen and swiveling seats for the driver and passenger, it offers a unique travel experience on wheels, ideal for short family getaways or group adventures. Considering America’s affinity for road trips, the absence of this camper feels like a missed opportunity, despite VW’s stance.

Additional features include a sensor system for trailer towing assistance, a stainless steel sink for washing up, and heated seats for enhanced driving comfort. If you reside in the U.K., the Surf model is currently available for ordering.

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