What is it ?

Based on the fifth-generation VW Caddy Cargo van, the Caddy California Maxi is a versatile and practical addition to Volkswagen's lineup of camper vans. With its compact dimensions and functional design, it caters to both daily commuting needs and weekend getaways, making it an attractive option for those who want a multifaceted vehicle that’s also much cheaper to buy than its larger siblings.

Available in two sizes; a standard-sized short wheelbase model and the Maxi, which is 353mm longer, are both proudly built in-house by Volkswagen and not by external specialist builders.

On the road

Having never driven what is essentially a small cargo van like the Caddy before, I wasn’t certain what to expect, would it be workman-like, a bit noisy, crude even?

Well, it was none of the above, the Caddy California was quiet, comfortable, and on a 7-hour round trip down to the Cotswolds achieved nearly 58mpg, which is pretty good if you ask me.

Fitted with the 122bhp 2.0-litre TDI and 7-speed DSG gearbox, while it's not a speed demon it won’t leave you wanting, even with all your overnight kit in the back you’ll find it more than adequate, I’m sure.

During our week together what I enjoyed the most was its smooth and comfortable ride. It’s soft suspension soaked up pretty much everything our pothole-strewn roads could offer.  Of course, press on a little and it can wallow around corners, but that’s fine, it’s a compromise I’m more than willing to accept.  What’s also impressive is that I didn't experience any rattles from the fixtures and fittings in the back - everything appeared well designed and screwed together.

Another bonus is that due to its size the Caddy was a breeze to manoeuvre, whether that’s in urban traffic or on winding country roads, far better than than it’s larger siblings, and it’s perfect if you’re into stealth camping, especially in urban areas.

Interior

Up front, it may be made from from the same hard-wearing materials you’ll find in the regular Caddy, but it’s really quite smart with plenty of cubby spaces for all your odds ’n’ sods.

Finding a comfortable driving position is easy with plenty of adjustments from both the steering wheel and seat. The front seats though, oh my, they’re super comfortable - not hard, not soft - just right.  I guess that’s the commercial aspect coming through, a vehicle that’s comfortable to be driven all day everyday.

Speaking of seating, the rear seats can take up to 3 passengers, and with loads of head and leg room they can be from your local basketball team.  Oh, and if you require more space for your camping equipment, the rear bench seat can be removed - a nice touch.

Having tall windows and no wall-mounted cupboards that you’ll find in a later camper van means that visibility is very good.  There’s also the optional of a park assist system that comes with front and rear parking sensors, or select the optional rear-view camera. 

The important bit, what makes the Caddy Cali a Cali?

Open the huge rear tailgate that doubles as an umbrella when it’s raining and you have a mini-kitchen on the left that includes a single-burner cooker with an integrated gas bottle near the side door.  Under the cooker there’s a storage area for utensils, pots ’n’ pans and food. Again, well thought out.

To the right there’s an area in which to sit, quite handy for cooking or putting on shoes!  in front of that, and connected to the underside of the bed is a custom-made bag designed to hold two foldable chairs and a table for outside dining.

Attached to where you would normally find the rear windows are 4 removable bags - another neat touch.

When it comes to bedtime, a full-sized bed sits folded behind the rear seats. To unfold it, you simply slide both front seats as forward as they’re go, including the backs, then drop the second row of seats.

From here you pull the bottom half of the bed over the folded seat backs, then slot two support bars into cut-outs in the door frame.

The bed measures 1.98m x 1.07m and is quite comfortable. For security and light pollution there are magnetic window blinds for all windows, including the optional panoramic sunroof.

Putting the bed together sounds more complicated than it actually is, so I made a video….

Conclusion

In practise it all worked really well and I found the Caddy California Maxi to be a well-rounded and compact campervan that caters to a wide range of needs. Its versatile design, efficient use of space, and thoughtful camping accessories, make it an appealing choice for those who seek adventure without sacrificing comfort and size.

While it may not offer the luxurious features of larger motorhomes, the Maxi's affordability and practicality make it a compelling option for both daily urban life and spontaneous getaways. If you're looking for a compact, versatile camper van that offers a comfortable and convenient camping experience, the Caddy California Maxi is certainly worth considering.

price: RRP plus OTR incl. VAT £38,120 (with options £42,320)

California Plus Package

• Discover Media DAB+ Navigation system with 10" colour touch-screen and 6 speakers

• Panoramic glass roof

• Parking sensors, front and rear

• Colour and trim: Starlight Blue Metallic with Palladium/ Titanium upholstery