Why should I want it?

It’s among the most versatile vehicles on the market, especially for a family with anything approaching an outdoor lifestyle. The California will sleep four courtesy of its pop-up roof, which is electro-hydraulically operated in the Ocean spec that’s the higher of the two on offer. Not many cars can boast a fully fitted kitchen, cool box, sink and stove, as well as a 200hp engine.

Why can’t I have it?

It’s an eye-watering amount of money for a Volkswagen van, albeit one with such equipment and capability, and the emissions means it’s not the most practical company car with monthly BiK payments of more than £800.

Arguments to use on the fleet manager

RVs are decent, with the California much in demand at the moment. There’s also no excuse for not arriving fresh at a meeting when you’ve got a choice of double beds and a kitchen, and it’s more Covid-proof than a hotel!

Paul Barker

More fleety alternative

Less than £25,000 will buy you a really rather nice new Volkswagen Golf, and the difference between the Golf and California, even allowing for the retained-value difference, will pay for plenty of nights in a Premier Inn. Where there’s a proper toilet and shower!