VW launches compact campervan

Volkswagen has revealed the first images and details of the successor to the Caddy Beach campervan.

The new compact camper is based on the all-new fifth generation Caddy and comes with a host of new features. One example is a new bed concept that has been redeveloped to offer greater versatility and there is now a panoramic glass roof offering a night under the stars.

Since 2005, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has been selling a compact mobile home based on the Caddy as a standard production model. From the outset, the aim has been to retain everyday utility and to design the fittings such as storage bags and bed area to be removable. This is also true of the latest generation.

The new smaller brother of the Transporter-based California campervan has an almost two-metre-long bed with disc springs, as used in the beds of the California and the Crafter-based Grand California.

Cleverly stowed in the rear are the camping chairs and table from the California models. The two storage bags that hold the chairs and table also double as privacy screens when fastened in the rear window sections.

The new Caddy features 19 driving assistance systems including Travel Assist, which for the first time enables assisted driving in a Volkswagen commercial vehicle over the entire range of speeds, and Trailer Assist, which makes reverse manoeuvring with a trailer significantly easier, as well as the Side-Assist and Rear Traffic Alert.

There are two turbo diesel engine options – 74bhp and a 120bhp – plus a turbocharged petrol engine delivering 115bhp.

The new compact camper will officially be launched at the beginning of September when more details and prices should be made available.