So happy I found this forum! Buying a VW Cali this winter.

[Coleyfield§]

Hi all,

First of all, thank you for letting me join the forum and I look forward to getting more involved and attending some events. I am 47 and always wanted a VW van since I was about 16. I am looking to get back into camping and surfing now my kids are a little older. I assume the Van will be big enough for 3, I will be hiring one in the next few weeks to try it out but I live near the beach in Dorset so Im pretty sure we can make it work with an awning as well?

I have 2 young kids (4 and 7), looking to go on adventures with them and after some research to this point, I think a VW cali is my best bet. Be great to hear any tips for buying this winter including best time, where to buy, what to haggle for etc?

I imagine there will be deals due to the current situation once the summer is truly over. I'll have about £10k to put down but also wanted to understand is a 10-year HP better or PCP in peoples experience?

I think I will go for a VW without the kitchen, but I think they have stopped making this version of the Beach. Do people use the kitchen much or is there a removable option?

Be great to also understand any events that might be happening next year that would be suitable for us too. Thank you in advance.

Dan

 

[Ladymuck]

Hi there, I'm looking at buying a cali this winter too, we have 2 children aged 7 & 4 as well! I've read the best deals can be had from now until Christmas for new and used.
We hired one out as weekend to check we like it and of course we did
What's your budget ? Are you getting new or used?

 

[Coleyfield§]

Hi there, I'm looking at buying a cali this winter too, we have 2 children aged 7 & 4 as well! I've read the best deals can be had from now until Christmas for new and used.
We hired one out as weekend to check we like it and of course we did
What's your budget ? Are you getting new or used?

Hello,
I'm looking at both options, went to see one today at VW. They are in the £65k range so a lot to consider, but want to get a good HP deal. Trying to work out what way is best but they are all probably pretty close cost wise. I think I will opt for the Ocean, does anyone know if they offer gas heating or is it just electric?
I'm going to hire one in a few weeks and see how it does in the colder weather. I cant wait to some of the events come back.

When do you think you will buy?

R
Dan

 

[Moakesy]

I think I will opt for the Ocean, does anyone know if they offer gas heating or is it just electric?

Welcome to the site.

Both the Coast and Ocean have an inbuilt heater than is sufficient. A few people top it up with a plug in heater but unless you (or the kids) really feel the standard heater is fine. The Ocean has double glazing in the rear.

VW haven't stopped making the Beach, but have stopped selling it in the UK (who knows why). The Coast and Ocean are two variants of the same thing....both have the kitchen and wardrobe space, but the Coast has a lower standard spec (and therefore cost), the Ocean has more toys as standard, but a higher list price.

Personally I'd go for the Ocean as I like what it offers, but everyone is different of course.

You may want to spec up your Cali and then use Drive the Deal to get the best price. Breeze at Poole is local to you and is known on this site as one of the best VW dealers for a Cali in the UK.

Good luck with your purchase!

 

[Ladymuck]

Hello,
I'm looking at both options, went to see one today at VW. They are in the £65k range so a lot to consider, but want to get a good HP deal. Trying to work out what way is best but they are all probably pretty close cost wise. I think I will opt for the Ocean, does anyone know if they offer gas heating or is it just electric?
I'm going to hire one in a few weeks and see how it does in the colder weather. I cant wait to some of the events come back.

When do you think you will buy?

R
Dan

I'm waiting for proceeds from a house sale to go through which should be in about a month (i can't quite believe i have to sell a house to buy a cali ) We are unlikely to use it until next spring though but the deals are coming in now/more used vans. We had a diesel heater in the one we hired last weekend and it was super toasty, curious to know why you would want a gas one ?
Also have you got quotes from drive the deal.com ? 10% discount

 

[Coleyfield§]

I'm waiting for proceeds from a house sale to go through which should be in about a month (i can't quite believe i have to sell a house to buy a cali ) We are unlikely to use it until next spring though but the deals are coming in now/more used vans. We had a diesel heater in the one we hired last weekend and it was super toasty, curious to know why you would want a gas one ?
Also have you got quotes from drive the deal.com ? 10% discount

Im not even sure you can get a gas one? Not sure where I was on that.. So, I went to Breeze VW in Poole to look at an Ocean and they ooze quality. Like you, I've just got to find the best way to fund one, might event start a campervan hire business, anyone done that? Probably more hassle than it is worth but we have the set up here to do it. I'll check into that weblink, thanks for that.

 

[MrP]

Hi and welcome from a fellow Cali owner in Dorset. I am a similar age and have kids and the van works well as an everyday vehicle, day trips, etc, etc, so I am sure you will have a great time with one.

Two thoughts for you...

1. If buying new I would consider a coast as you don't have to worry so much about the expensive hydraulic roof. The heater is a must and is great but double glazing isn't. I can't see it adds much benefit.

2. Financially you would be much better going second hand? You can get a £30k loan for 7 years on very low rates, plus your £10k and if you could squeeze a couple more £k will get you a good T6. Cost of ownership when you come to sell it may work out the best vehicle you have ever owned.
I keep looking at getting a newer one as mine is getting old but it owes me nothing...

I wouldn't consider renting. Lots of competition. Parts for Cali are expensive and elements need treating with care, also sounds a lot of hassle.

Have fun!

 

[MrP]

Also forgot to mention on point 2 above...
If you finance on a personal loan you own the vehicle and not the finance company as the loan is on you not a vehicle.
If for any reason you need to sell the van in the loan period you can do so at anytime without the hassle of finance being registered on the vehicle....

 

[Karlos]

Hi You have picked a hell of a time to buy a Cali due to Covid demand also consider if your ordering a new one now it will probably arrive in the new year which may incur an Extra Br***t 10% tax.

Best of look with your search.

 

[Jenny H]

Hi and welcome from a fellow Cali owner in Dorset. I am a similar age and have kids and the van works well as an everyday vehicle, day trips, etc, etc, so I am sure you will have a great time with one.

Two thoughts for you...

1. If buying new I would consider a coast as you don't have to worry so much about the expensive hydraulic roof. The heater is a must and is great but double glazing isn't. I can't see it adds much benefit.

2. Financially you would be much better going second hand? You can get a £30k loan for 7 years on very low rates, plus your £10k and if you could squeeze a couple more £k will get you a good T6. Cost of ownership when you come to sell it may work out the best vehicle you have ever owned.
I keep looking at getting a newer one as mine is getting old but it owes me nothing...

I wouldn't consider renting. Lots of competition. Parts for Cali are expensive and elements need treating with care, also sounds a lot of hassle.

Have fun!

Hi - please could I ask where from 7 year loan on low rates?

 

[Jenny H]

Hi You have picked a hell of a time to buy a Cali due to Covid demand also consider if your ordering a new one now it will probably arrive in the new year which may incur an Extra Br***t 10% tax.

Best of look with your search.

Actually from posters build dates they seem to be arriving in 3-4 months now so might just scrape in

 

[MrP]

Hi - please could I ask where from 7 year loan on low rates?

First Direct 7 years + 3.3% for 30k

 

[Jenny H]

First Direct 7 years + 3.3% for 30k

Thank you thats who I bank with.
Im rubbish at working out whats the best finance as never had a need but am so tempted by the new Coast as really believe it represents very good value compared to buying a 2nd hand Ocean for almost same price. The current VW PCP is 3.6% - not sure there would be much difference between what you end up paying over the odds - last month VW PCP was 2.8% - just wonder if next month it will go up again or down? It really is a lottery at the moment trying to 2nd guess things - yes I think there will be a lot more choice 2nd hand over the next few months but the pricing of the Coast through drive the deal represents such good comparative value Im really tempted - just dithering because of all the uncertainty!!!

 

[MrP]

Thank you thats who I bank with.
Im rubbish at working out whats the best finance as never had a need but am so tempted by the new Coast as really believe it represents very good value compared to buying a 2nd hand Ocean for almost same price. The current VW PCP is 3.6% - not sure there would be much difference between what you end up paying over the odds - last month VW PCP was 2.8% - just wonder if next month it will go up again or down? It really is a lottery at the moment trying to 2nd guess things - yes I think there will be a lot more choice 2nd hand over the next few months but the pricing of the Coast through drive the deal represents such good comparative value Im really tempted - just dithering because of all the uncertainty!!!

No problem.

Just remember with PCP you are paying interest on the complete finance agreement.

So as an example 30k + 3.3% over 7 years is a lot less interest than 55k + 2.8% on a PCP...

There are lots of others on here that have taken advantage of the PCP incentives (discounts, extended warranty, services free, etc) but then have paid it off within 14days by other means to avoid the PCP tie.

 

[Jenny H]

No problem.

Just remember with PCP you are paying interest on the complete finance agreement.

So as an example 30k + 3.3% over 7 years is a lot less interest than 55k + 2.8% on a PCP...

There are lots of others on here that have taken advantage of the PCP incentives (discounts, extended warranty, services free, etc) but then have paid it off within 14days by other means to avoid the PCP tie.

Oh really so even though I would put £20k deposit on the PCP purchase the interest is on the whole £55k ? I didnt realize that thank you

 

[Coleyfield§]

Hi You have picked a hell of a time to buy a Cali due to Covid demand also consider if your ordering a new one now it will probably arrive in the new year which may incur an Extra Br***t 10% tax.

Best of look with your search.

Thanks, I know, Im not sure if it'll end up being good or bad but just going with it.

 

[Coleyfield§]

Also forgot to mention on point 2 above...
If you finance on a personal loan you own the vehicle and not the finance company as the loan is on you not a vehicle.
If for any reason you need to sell the van in the loan period you can do so at anytime without the hassle of finance being registered on the vehicle....

Appreciate this info, thank you. Great advice on the interest payments.

 

[Coleyfield§]

Just had a quick look on the forums and couldnt find a review on the slidepods. I am now thinking getting a 2017/18/19 Beach and fitting a Slidepod kitchen unit so I can remove when not needed. Anyone got one, quoted £2k+ but seems a great idea?

 

[MrP]

AHH sorry minor crossed wires!
The OP had 10k deposit looking at a new Ocean about 65k so 55k would be PCP finance.

In your case a 20k deposit on a 55k van results in 35k PCP. In this instance for you if you can get 2.8% on PCP and other incentives from VW to take the finance it may be worth it as long as you have the balloon payment at the end...

 

[Coleyfield§]

Hi and welcome from a fellow Cali owner in Dorset. I am a similar age and have kids and the van works well as an everyday vehicle, day trips, etc, etc, so I am sure you will have a great time with one.

Two thoughts for you...

1. If buying new I would consider a coast as you don't have to worry so much about the expensive hydraulic roof. The heater is a must and is great but double glazing isn't. I can't see it adds much benefit.

2. Financially you would be much better going second hand? You can get a £30k loan for 7 years on very low rates, plus your £10k and if you could squeeze a couple more £k will get you a good T6. Cost of ownership when you come to sell it may work out the best vehicle you have ever owned.
I keep looking at getting a newer one as mine is getting old but it owes me nothing...

I wouldn't consider renting. Lots of competition. Parts for Cali are expensive and elements need treating with care, also sounds a lot of hassle.

Have fun!

Thanks for the info, if I look at £40k to £45k what should I expect for that money? It seems to very so much Im going to have to create a spreadsheet (which Im terrible at) to work it out? Any rough ideas welcome.

 

[Borris]

Hi and welcome from a fellow Cali owner in Dorset. I am a similar age and have kids and the van works well as an everyday vehicle, day trips, etc, etc, so I am sure you will have a great time with one.

Two thoughts for you...

1. If buying new I would consider a coast as you don't have to worry so much about the expensive hydraulic roof. The heater is a must and is great but double glazing isn't. I can't see it adds much benefit.

2. Financially you would be much better going second hand? You can get a £30k loan for 7 years on very low rates, plus your £10k and if you could squeeze a couple more £k will get you a good T6. Cost of ownership when you come to sell it may work out the best vehicle you have ever owned.
I keep looking at getting a newer one as mine is getting old but it owes me nothing...

I wouldn't consider renting. Lots of competition. Parts for Cali are expensive and elements need treating with care, also sounds a lot of hassle.

Have fun!

I agree with your going second hand advice. If it has to be new then IMO a basic T6-1 Coast with a manual roof is probably a better bet than a more complicated T6-1 Ocean at present especially given the problems being reported with the latter recently. Even better would be a late T6 on which most of the niggles have been resolved.

If the OP can find a good late T6 Beach then it will be even better still as it has a manual roof. The electro/ hydraulic roof can give problems and when they do they can be very expensive to fix.

BTW, I've owned both a SE with double glazing and a Beach without at the same time. Double glazing is only fitted to the cab doors, two rear side windows and the tailgate but not the side windows with sliders in. I agree, it makes absolutely no noticeable difference to either warmth, or sound proofing and IMO is a complete waste of money. It doesn't really improve security either as the weak link would be those sliding windows.

 

[Neilos]

Just had a quick look on the forums and couldnt find a review on the slidepods. I am now thinking getting a 2017/18/19 Beach and fitting a Slidepod kitchen unit so I can remove when not needed. Anyone got one, quoted £2k+ but seems a great idea?

I don’t have a slide pod but like you thought I wanted one. Having now used my van for a year, I’m not sure I still want one. I just can’t get my head around how you’d access the large volume of boot behind the pod when camping. And we use all the boot space. You might be different. I know others on here rate slide pods highly for their service. I spoke to them about a parking heater and they were very helpful and I’ll probably use them if and when I do it.


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[Borris]

I don’t have a slide pod but like you thought I wanted one. Having now used my van for a year, I’m not sure I still want one. I just can’t get my head around how you’d access the large volume of boot behind the pod when camping. And we use all the boot space. You might be different. I know others on here rate slide pods highly for their service. I spoke to them about a parking heater and they were very helpful and I’ll probably use them if and when I do it.


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I don't have a slide pod but do have a Calicap pull out tray in our seven seat Beach. This tray stays fully loaded all year round so we can go anywhere at a moments notice. You can easily utilise and access the boot area forward of the tray or Slide pod by tipping the rear bench seat back forward so it is lying flat on the seat base. Access to this area via this method is arguably much easier than accessing the same area via the tail gate. If done via the boot, it would involve pulling everything out prior to burrowing in beneath the Multiflex.

 

[Neilos]

I don't have a slide pod but do have a Calicap pull out tray in our seven seat Beach. This tray stays fully loaded all year round so we can go anywhere at a moments notice. You can easily utilise and access the boot area forward of the tray or Slide pod by tipping the rear bench seat back forward so it is lying flat on the seat base. Access to this area via this method is arguably much easier than accessing the same area via the tail gate. If done via the boot, it would involve pulling everything out prior to burrowing in beneath the Multiflex.

I do use that method sometimes. Trouble for us is, that that method requires us to remove the kids car seats as the bench can not flip forward without. But, it’s a good way to access that part of the boot when camping and the seats are in the pop up.


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