VW California Beach 2026 – Hybrid (4Motion)

  • Automatic
  • 4 pers.
  • 5 door
  • Gasoline / Electric Hybrid
  • awd
  • Sleeps 4
  • Not for highlands

The Icon Reimagined: Next-Gen Hybrid Luxury for the Modern Explorer

The VW California Beach 2026 is not just a camper; it is the most sophisticated "home on wheels" ever to touch Icelandic soil. Built on the brand-new MQB platform, this 2026 Hybrid model drives with the smoothness of a luxury sedan while offering the rugged capability of a 4x4.

For the first time, the California features dual sliding doors, creating a "three-zone" living concept that opens up the Icelandic landscape on both sides of the vehicle. Whether you are parking at a remote campsite in the Westfjords or enjoying a coffee by a glacier lagoon, the 2026 California provides a seamless transition between the comfort of the indoors and the beauty of the outdoors.

This camper is NOT allowed on F-roads. 

Included in This Rental

  • The Stove: A high-quality portable gas stove (and one full gas canister to get you started).
  • Pots & Pans: 1 large pot (with lid) and one frying pan.
  • Dinnerware (per passenger): Plates, bowls, and mugs.
  • Cutlery (per passenger): Knives, forks, and spoons.
  • Cooking Tools: A spatula, a large soup ladle, a cutting board, and a sharp kitchen knife.
  • Cleaning Essentials: A dishwashing tub, sponge, dish soap, and a kitchen towel/cloth.
  • Refrigeration: An integrated electric cooling box (12V) that keeps your perishables fresh while you drive.
  • Sleeping Bags: 4 premium, sub-zero-rated sleeping bags designed for Icelandic nights.
  • Pillows & Linen: 4 pillows with fresh pillowcases and a bottom sheet for both the lower bed and the pop-up roof bed.
  • The Mattress: The Beach model includes the comfort mattress for the lower bed and the specialized spring-plate mattress in the pop-up roof.
  • Free airport shuttle service.
  • CDW (Collision Damage Waiver): Included. This covers the car's body in the event of a collision.
    • Self-risk (Deductible): Approx. 350,000 ISK (~€2,350 / $2,500).
  • TPL (Third-Party Liability): Included. This is the mandatory insurance required by Icelandic law to cover damage you might cause to other people or their property.
  • TP (Theft Protection): Included. Covers the theft of the vehicle itself (does not cover personal items inside).
  • 24/7 Roadside Assistance: Included. If you have a mechanical breakdown, Rent.is has a network of partner garages across the country to get you back on the road.

Plug-In Hybrid Efficiency & 4Motion Power

The 2026 model introduces a game-changing eHybrid powertrain combined with 4MOTION All-Wheel Drive:

  • Silent & Sustainable: The hybrid system allows for near-silent electric driving—perfect for preserving the quiet of Iceland’s pristine campsites.
  • Intelligent 4WD: The 4Motion system provides instant grip on wet coastal roads and steep gravel passes, ensuring you stay in control regardless of the weather.
  • Regenerative Braking: Ideal for the long descents in the Eastfjords, the vehicle recharges its battery while you drive, maximizing fuel efficiency for your entire loop.

The "Beach" Concept: Maximum Versatility

Unlike the standard campervans, the Beach Edition focuses on space and modularity. It is the ultimate choice for those who want a flexible "basecamp":

  • Two Sleeping Areas: Features a manually operated pop-up roof, a 1.14m x 2.05m spring-plate mattress, and a foldable lower bed, comfortably sleeping 4 adults.
  • Dual Sliding Doors: Standard for 2026, allowing you to load from both sides and enjoy the "terrace" feel of having both sides of the van open to nature.
  • Modular Seating: The heavy rear bench is gone, replaced by individual, lightweight seats that can be moved or removed to create massive storage for hiking gear or bikes.
  • Pull-Out Kitchenette: A compact, cleverly designed gas stove and cutlery drawer integrated into the rear, allowing for outdoor cooking under the protection of the tailgate.

Digital Cockpit & Safety

As a 2026 model, this camper is a tech powerhouse designed to make Icelandic road trips stress-free:

  • Advanced Connectivity: A 10-inch touchscreen with Wireless Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ and a Digital Cockpit Pro instrument cluster.
  • Smart Camper Control: A new 5-inch control screen in the C-pillar lets you manage heating, lighting, and power levels with a single touch.
  • Safety Sense Suite: Includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Assist, and Front Assist with pedestrian and cyclist detection.

Summary of Features

  • New 2026 T7 Platform: Car-like handling with the most spacious California interior yet.
  • Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV): The first California to combine electric efficiency with 4Motion AWD.
  • Sleeps 4 Adults: Pop-up roof bed and a flexible lower sleeping area for groups or families.
  • Dual Sliding Doors: Unique 2026 design for better accessibility and "open-air" living.
  • 4Motion All-Wheel Drive: Essential traction for Iceland’s gravel roads and coastal winds.
  • Compact Kitchenette: Integrated gas stove and kitchenware for meal prep on the go.
  • Intelligent Heating: Advanced auxiliary heater to keep you warm through the Arctic nights.
  • 230V Shore Power: Includes a campsite connection to power your devices and recharge the batteries.

2026 Road Tax & Payment Notice

In accordance with Iceland’s 2026 regulations, fuel prices at the pump have been reduced by 30%. A mandatory road tax of ISK 6.95 per km (approx. €0.05 / $0.06) applies to all rental vehicles.

Payment: We will record your mileage at the start and end of your trip; the final total will be charged to your credit card automatically after your rental period is complete.