VOLKSWAGEN GRAND CALIFORNIA 600

More space makes the big Cali suited to those who want extra creature comforts from their camper.

Even people with no experience of motorhomes and campervans will recognise the VW California. And as the name suggests, the Grand California is the supersized version of the California. Perhaps that undersells the differences - the Grand isn't just a stretched version of the popular 'van, it's built on a different base vehicle, with a very different internal layout.

Two models are available: the bigger 680, with a lengthways double bed to the rear, and the shorter 600, with a transverse double bed.

Price start from £82,030 for the 600 and upwards of £84,718 for the 680.

Drivers with a C1 licence can order the Grand with a 3.88t gross vehicle weight, although this costs extra.

Otherwise, both the 600 and the 680 come in a standard specification, with an extensive list of optional extras.

The tempting upgrades include a wind-out awning (£972), an overcab bed (600 only, £2628) and a roofmounted air-conditioning unit (£2244).

Exterior and cab

Two-tone paint is something of a VW Cali signature, and our Grand California 600 came in a smart-but-subtle silver and grey combination.

This is a pricey option, at £2994.

If you'd prefer a more eye-catching finish, there are also white/blue and white/red combinations.

Compared with the sleek, compact California, the Grand 600 is obviously a much larger and taller vehicle (1).

The height is especially striking.

The tall body is a benefit once you're on pitch, but it does give the vehicle a slightly awkward look. The bulbous front, hosting the optional overcab bed, places practicality over style.

It sets the tone for a vehicle that's halfway between a typical camper and a coachbuilt. Unlike a camper with a pop-up roof, it's less likely that anyone would use the Grand for day-to-day driving - the beanpole height of 2.97m rules out any car park with a standard height restriction.