Hi all, as I’m new to this forum and only starting to look for my first California, I’m putting together a list of the specification and additional options available on the T4 California.
The thinking behind this is to help me understand all the features on the Cali and what to look for when buying.
Some features can only be got as factory options (or at least it better to have a Cali with these options fitted when built new) and some options can be retro fitted.
So I’m hoping to get a T4 Cali Freestyle, so I’ll list out the spec/options and it would be great if people could confirm or comment on the different questions I have.
I know it’s a long list but hopefully over the next few months a complete list can be put together.
Engine & Transmission
Engine. 2.5 TDI 150ps-this is obviously the best option.
Gearbox. 5 Speed Manual.
Syncro. Probably rare, is it worth having it?
Exterior
Fog lights, Essential.
Headlight Washers, Useful but not essential.
Heated windscreen Washers, Useful but not essential.
I’ve seen one Cali with a sunroof in the Poptop, is this a factory option?
I’ve seen a Cali with four pieces of what look like box metal on the roof, one on each corner of the popup roof. What are these for? I’m thinking some sort of roof bar system?
http://www.poptop.nl/aanbod/volkswagen-westfalia-california-t4-freestyle-2/
Bike Rack. Are factory ones desirable or are some aftermarket ones better?
Awning, does the T4 Cali come with any factory awning or way of fitting an awning? Or is the only option to fit a Brandrup rail?
Windows. What is best, double glazing and tinted??
Windows, I’ve seen some vans with a fold out window at the sink/cooker side of the van, is this a factory option and useful.
Is there a sliding window on the sliding side door?
Tow bar?
Interior Driver space
Electric windows, Essential.
Electric Mirrors, Essential.
Cruise Control, essential.
Heated Mirrors, Useful but not essential.
Heated seats, Useful but not essential
Heated back window, essential
Rear window wash/wiper
Radio, after reading the specification, a gamma radio was listed. What is a gamma radio??
I’ve seen some Calis fitted with a satnav, is this worth having or is it kinda obsolete? Can the screen be used for anything else like a reversing camera or TV screen?
What other standard radio is worth having?
CD Changer, again is it worth having?
Following text taken from the
www.westfaliat4info.com website, (Navigation System. Cost 2726 Euro:
With colour Multifunction Display (MFD).
Visual route display both using the icons in the display screen in the direct view of the driver (MFA) and also on the map navigation display (swivel) in the middle of the dashboard.
Dynamic route guidance via RDS TMC
Acoustic driving recommendations.
Tuner for TV including videotext, picture only in stationary vehicle, in the middle console, with connection socket for camcorder or games console.
GPS Antenna.
Stereo radio installation (with radio “Gamma” (standard equipment but without cassette deck).
CD-Rom for Germany.)
Aircon, essential.
Factory fitter telephone kit, I’d like this.
I’ve seen some Calis with a tray on the dash that look like it has two cup holders and some small storage pockets. Was this a VW part?
Interior, Living area
I like the look of the freestyle interior.
I’ve seen some Calis with additional storage pockets, they look like the same pattern as the seats. Are these factory options or from Brandrup?
Are all curtains including the one for the windscreen fitted as standard?
Night heater. Is this a good option and does it come with a time option.
On the westfaliat4.info website, Two 11 Watt transistor lights are listed as standard equipment. What are these?
Summary
Please feel free to add and more information.
Thanks in advance for your help, answer and advice.
Regards Padraic.