According to the automaker, the program will allow “families and adventure-seekers to explore the UK” in a California campervan for a full week. This period will be long enough to test all the amenities of the camping-friendly models in real-life scenarios.
The weekly trials cost £999 ($1,272) for the California 6.1 and £499 ($635) for the smaller Caddy California, but Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles will refund the full amount in case you end up placing an order. Note that the California 6.1 starts from £60,428 ($76,912) in the UK market, while the Caddy California is much cheaper starting from £32,229 ($41,021).
According to a study compiled by AX, 63% of UK drivers would prefer longer and unaccompanied test drives in order to make purchasing decisions and see if a vehicle really suits their needs and lifestyle. Unlike regular test drives that usually include just a quick drive around the block, a week-long trial certainly gives you a better insight into the characteristics of the vehicle.
Besides the campers, the “Try Before You Buy” scheme also includes the ID.3 electric hatchback and will soon add the option of the ID. Buzz and ID. Buzz Cargo electric vans. By offering EVs for extended test runs Volkswagen hopes to convince more buyers to make the switch to a zero-emission vehicle. Interested parties that live in the UK can book their trial of the campers or the EVs via the VWFS Rent-a-Car website.
Source: Volkswagen