If VW continued to sell the Westfalia Camper in the U.S., this is what it would look like. This is a camper or caravan conversion of a VW Multivan plus it's a limited-edition California No Limit -- love Euro names.
Part of the special edition includes suede seating and painted appliances which consist of a two-burner stove, sink and fridge. Of course there's the pop-up sleeping compartment and hidden storage spaces throughout...
Power comes from a 2.5-liter TDi that's good for 174 hp. Front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive is offered. This limited version will set you back about 69,000 euros -- base price is about 39,000 euros. Wealthy Europeans who just love vans can opt for a luxury model that does not have a camper but features Bentley seats and tons of hand-applied leather with many custom color choices. Price: 150,000 euros. -- Brian Moody, Road Test Editor
rsholland says:
10:19 AM, 09/12/07
I wish VW still sold their van here. I know they're in the midst of doing a VW version of the new Chrysler minivan, but that idea doesn't do a thing for me.
estreka says:
01:51 PM, 09/12/07
Let's see, I can buy a minivan-sized camper for 39,000 euros or I can buy a 25' camper for $30K. Hmmmm
gonzster says:
03:29 PM, 09/12/07
Price seems pretty outrageous. It might be worth it if the thing actually had some class. Look at the original VW campers. They were as gorgeous as they were bizzare. This thing is an awful looking monstrosity that just happens to come with a stove.
At least there is the pop top roof, but even the Aztek had a tent...
As far as the Bentley version, for 150k Euro, why not buy a used Bentley? You certainly won't be taking either camping.
briancam says:
11:08 PM, 09/12/07
You may have trouble piloting a 25 foot RV through the streets of Paris or finding a place to park it in any major European city.
In the US, an RV is clearly better.
ateixeira says:
12:44 PM, 09/13/07
The problem here is simple: cost. They can get Dodge to build them a van for less than half the cost.
It's a shame, though, as even Swivel and go doesn't give you the same sort of space you got from the older VW vans.
puristsoul says:
12:27 AM, 09/27/07
Well, I think it looks pretty sweet. The Eurovan has evolved nicely from it's unfortunate beginings. I just borrowed my dad's '90 Westy for camping, and it may be a little cramped but it's cool and everyone else thinks so too. Unless you're climbing a hill, then it's really lame! But, I agree the older campers had so much more style. Why they can't build on that is a mystery to me. The rear engine layout was great! It had a nice distant purr. They could always put a trunk up front for additional storage.