Empty Volkswagen Multivan serves as versatile base for camping conversions

Volkswagen has launched a new customisable camper van option that offers buyers a blank canvas for their conversion projects. The Volkswagen Multivan Camper, priced from £52,680 including VAT, provides customers with a stripped-back alternative to the fully-equipped California models, featuring only swivel front seats and a pop-up roof with an empty rear cabin.

The new offering represents a significant saving of almost £12,000 compared to the entry-level California Beach, which currently starts at £64,417. According to Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, the vehicle comes without rear seating, kitchen facilities, or even floor covering in the cargo area, making it ideal for professional converters and DIY enthusiasts.

Why the Volkswagen Multivan Camper Appeals to Converters

The minimalist approach addresses a common practice among camper van converters who previously purchased standard Transporter or Multivan models only to strip them down for customisation. Many would cut open the roof to install pop-up sleeping areas, a process that the Multivan Camper eliminates by including this feature from the factory.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles claims the new model provides “the ideal starting point for professional converters to build the perfect adventure companion, working with a genuine Volkswagen base.” This factory-fitted pop-up roof gives converters a significant head start while maintaining warranty coverage on the base vehicle.

Standard Specifications and Available Options

Despite its bare-bones interior, the Multivan Camper shares key components with its more expensive siblings. The vehicle features the same long-wheelbase body and 148bhp 2.0-litre TDI diesel engine paired with a DSG automatic gearbox found in fully-equipped California models.

Additionally, buyers can customise their Volkswagen Multivan Camper with various factory options. Available upgrades include three-zone air-conditioning, heated front seats, satellite navigation systems, and alloy wheel packages, allowing owners to tailor comfort features before undertaking their custom conversion work.

Powertrain Options and Pricing Structure

For those seeking enhanced capability, Volkswagen offers a plug-in hybrid variant priced from £60,870. The eHybrid powertrain delivers 237bhp and includes 4Motion all-wheel drive, making it suitable for adventurers planning to explore challenging terrain beyond paved roads.

However, the most compelling pricing comes for commercial buyers. Since the vehicle is sold through Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, business customers can purchase the base diesel model for £43,900 excluding VAT, while the PHEV version costs £50,725 before tax.

Market Positioning and Competition

The launch positions Volkswagen to capture a segment of the camper van market previously served by aftermarket converters working with standard commercial vehicles. Meanwhile, customers seeking ready-made solutions can still opt for fully-equipped California models or explore the used market, where previous-generation examples are available from under £45,000.

In contrast to traditional camper van sales, this approach allows Volkswagen to supply a manufacturer-backed platform while leaving interior configuration to specialists or owners. The strategy acknowledges the growing demand for personalised camper conversions while maintaining quality control over structural modifications like the pop-up roof installation.

The Volkswagen Multivan Camper is now available to order through Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles dealerships, with delivery timescales expected to follow standard production schedules. Specific availability dates for different configurations have not been confirmed by the manufacturer.