A hippie bus with a yuppie price tag

Echoes of the 1960s VW Microbus, as Volkswagen's new California draws on its rich heritage as the West Coast surfer's wheels of choice. The Caravelle-based California has light alloy chairs, table and awning; and two sleeping areas are available, one in the main body and one in a "private" roof area. Options include European-wide satellite navigation and Climatronic air conditioning. Volkswagen's 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system may also be specified for those tricky beach runs. Entry-level recreational fun from Volkswagen starts from £34,000, so only well-heeled former hippies need apply.