Since its introduction in 2003, the Volkswagen California has been one of the bestselling and most iconic camper vans in the world. But after more than two decades on the road, the vehicle was getting a bit long in the tooth and was in need of a major overhaul. Today, that reboot has arrived in the form of the 2025 Volkswagen New California. (Yes, that’s the model name. Remember the New Beetle?)
VW is calling the New California its most innovative version of the camper van yet, and it’s hard to argue that point. Five trims, all with a pop-up roof, dual sliding doors and the option of a plug-in hybrid, all-wheel drive powertrain, put the new model head and shoulders above its predecessors.
So, what’s the problem?
The VW New California Is Not Coming to the U.S.
The California continues to be the most cruelly named vehicle in existence. While its freewheeling spirit and suite of adventure-ready features would make it the perfect vessel for a lengthy road trip down the California coast, the camper van remains unavailable in its namesake state.
No VW California has ever been sold in the United States, and that trend is unfortunately going to continue with the New California. Why do you hate us, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles? Is it the cargo shorts? They can carry so much stuff!