Volkswagen has announced it will be showcasing its latest Grand California at Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf later this summer (29 August to 7 September).
Available on two wheelbases, the new Grand California comes on the latest Crafter, a base vehicle we consider to be among the best vans for a camper conversion.
Features in the van will include a new look lounge, which will now see the ‘Atami Bamboo’ design used on both the work surface and tabletop. The kitchen, dinette, and cargo area will include PVC flooring as well, providing ‘van owners with a durable floor surface. That’s not the only new feature in the kitchen, which now also comes with a redesigned black faucet and a new wood look.
Fans of alfresco dining are sure to appreciate the table that offers the flexibility of being moved to the outside of the kitchen unit, while another new feature sees luggage nets used on the upper cabinets, which will make storing items in both the California 600 and California 680 simpler.
Whether you opt for a used Volkswagen Grand California or the latest model, you will always expect to have a great driving experience. The 2026 model will come with various driving aids to help here, including an infotainment system with a touchscreen (26cm as standard), front and rear parking aids, lane departure warning, and its “Front Assist” system, which offers emergency break assist, including detection of pedestrians and cyclists.
The new Grand California also comes with an electronic parking brake, which is switch-operated and, as it has replaced the handbrake previously found in the footwell, should make it straightforward to swivel the driver’s seat to face the interior of the ‘van after you’ve pitched up.
Options in the model include a custom-fit thermal mat and blackout set for the cab’s windows, “Travel Assist”, and the chance to have the touchscreen at 32cm.
Check out our review of a 2024 VW Grand California 600 to see what we made of a previous season’s model too.
VW are not the only brand to be launching new models at the moment. One recent brand to launch a model is Chinese manufacturer Farizon, which has unveiled an all-electric campervan that might lead to a new range of electric campervans in the UK in the future.
Another make that has unveiled its latest releases is Chausson, which is providing more base vehicle choice and four new models for the 2026 season.
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