Volkswagen California Plug-in Hybrid Now Available in Turkey at Premium Price

Turkey launch highlights pricing and economic gap with UK market

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has introduced the all-new Volkswagen California campervan to the Turkish market, pricing it at 4,699,000 TL. Built on the MQB platform derived from the long-wheelbase version of the Multivan eHybrid, the model features a plug-in hybrid system offering 245 PS, 4MOTION all-wheel drive, and an updated interior architecture. With a revised pop-up roof, newly integrated control panels, and modular seating arrangements, the California has been reimagined with utility and flexibility in mind.

Meanwhile, the camper’s UK pricing is expected to start at around £65,000, which equals approximately 3,077,750 TL based on the current exchange rate of 1 GBP = 47.35 TL. The substantial difference in retail prices between Turkey and the United Kingdom sheds light on regional tax burdens and import costs.

Interior and configuration options updated for modern users

The latest California includes a number of notable changes compared to previous versions. A dual-screen dashboard layout mirrors the one found in the Volkswagen Multivan MPV, with intuitive controls for the pop-up roof and gear selection. Only two seats are provided in the front, which can rotate 180 degrees when the vehicle is parked.

Three distinct versions are planned for the UK market: Beach, Coast, and Ocean. The entry-level Beach offers a manual pop-up roof, five-seat configuration, and a compact kitchenette accessible through the rear hatch. The Coast adds a fixed kitchen setup with a sink, fridge, and upgraded 17-inch wheels, while the high-end Ocean features heated seats, ambient lighting, and Volkswagen’s Discover Pro Navigation system. A small tablet-style screen located on the C-pillar allows users to control internal systems such as lighting, battery status, and water levels. This feature is mirrored in a mobile app, enabling top bunk passengers to manage cabin settings remotely.

Economic contrast and purchasing power

The price disparity becomes even more noticeable when local income levels are considered. As of 2025, Turkey’s minimum wage stands at 22,104.67 TL. At this rate, a minimum wage earner in Turkey would need to work 213 months—or roughly 17.7 years—without spending a single lira to afford the new California. In contrast, average weekly earnings in the UK are around £700, meaning a person could potentially purchase the camper in under two years, assuming no other expenses.

Plug-in hybrid leads initial lineup, electric model still pending

At launch, the California will be available with three powertrain options: a 148 hp 2.0-litre TDI diesel, a 201 hp 2.0-litre TSI petrol, and later, a 242 hp plug-in hybrid variant. The hybrid model will utilize a 21kWh battery, which Volkswagen claims can support up to 100 km (62 miles) of electric-only driving. Towing capacity is rated at up to two tonnes.

Plans for an all-electric version based on the ID. Buzz platform remain in development, but Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles CEO Carsten Intra stated that the market response will determine its timeline, noting, “We are waiting for the customer response on that.”