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Volkswagen California Estate (2005-2015) running costs and reliability

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Running costs rating: 2.5 out of 52.5

Written by David Ross Updated: 17 May 2022

Miles per pound (mpp)

Reliable fuel consumption data for comparison purposes is not available for this model.

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Fuel economy

A more stringent standard for fuel economy (WLTP) was introduced from September 2017, and this model was not required to undergo that test. Its fuel economy measured under the previous test system was 29 - 40 mpg. However these figures are less likely to be achievable in real world driving and so should never be compared to another car's mpg which was measured under the newer, more realistic WLTP system.

View mpg & specs for any version

With prices starting at upwards of £35,000 for a new California, it can’t really be described as cheap. However, you’re almost getting a proper motorhome for the money, so it’s quite competitive when compared with larger vehicles. Manual versions should be good for at least 33mpg, with the automatic dipping just under the 30mpg mark. Expect the California to retain about half it’s original cost after three years.

The California scores fairly badly on the eco front, despite only using a diesel engine. Due to it’s weight and less than aerodynamic shape, all models emits more than 200g/km of CO2. The cleanest version is the 130bhp TDI which emits 219g/km of CO2 and averages 34mpg.

Proven Volkswagen mechanicals and electrics should be reliable for many years. The warranty is three years/100,000 miles (40,000 miles longer than the standard passenger car warranty) should anything serious go wrong in that time.