VW’s new-generation replacement for the VW Caddy Beach will be unveiled next month.
These concept drawings are our first official look at the new Volkswagen Caddy Mini-Camper. It’s the successor for the old Caddy Beach, which features a range of convenience updates and some extra equipment. The compact camper will make its official debut in September, before going on sale later this year.
Volkswagen’s new Mini-Camper is based on the same platform as the fifth-generation Caddy panel van. As such, it’ll come with the same range of chassis tweaks and the same updated engine-range, which includes either a 85kW turbocharged 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol unit or a 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine with either 55kW, 75kW or 90kW.
On the outside, the Mini-Camper looks almost identical to the standard Volkswagen Caddy MPV, retaining the same alloy wheels, LED headlamps, vertical tail lights, roof rails and 1.4 square-metre panoramic glass roof as the passenger model.
However Volkswagen has given the Caddy’s cabin a serious overhaul. The standard van’s rear bench has been swapped for a two-metre-long folding bed and all of the van’s rear windows – including the glass roof – have been fitted with blinds to prevent the morning sun from waking the occupants.
Buyers also get the same foldable camping chairs and table from the larger California, which can be stowed in bags under the bed – and there’s plenty of support for add-ons such as roof racks and detachable awnings. What’s more, the bed can be removed completely to turn the Mini-Camper back into a van.
Like the standard Caddy, the Mini-Camper will get Volkswagen’s latest MIB3 infotainment setup, which features a central screen measuring up to 10-inches across. There’ll be a host of safety equipment too, such as side assist, rear cross-traffic alert and Volkswagen’s trailer assist system, which promises to make towing a trailer far easier.
Availability for the model in Australia has not yet been discussed though given the Caddy Beach and more recent Kombi were sold here, it should be on VW Australia’s wishlist.
Luke Wilkinson