VW Grand California Test: More Stars Than a Hotel

A driver returned from Southern France to the Rhineland with a BMW X3 20xdrive towing a 1550 kg caravan at 30°C. The engine ran stably and oil temperature remained normal. However, the owner's manual warns that during long trips with high load and high ambient temperature, the fuel system may overheat if the tank is less than 1/4 full, reducing engine power and risking damage. The driver notes that following this recommendation reduces range by 25%.

Sunlight has turned the IBEX Concept into a production camper van built on the Volkswagen Crafter 4Motion. Orders open in August 2026. It features a 2.0L TDI diesel engine with 163 hp, an eight-speed automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive. Standard equipment includes an off-road package with an LED light bar, 18-inch tires, an electric side step, and roof rails. The van is about 6 meters long with an interior height of 1.98 m. The rear transverse bed measures 2.00×1.36 m, and there is a pull-out refrigerator accessible from both inside and outside. Exterior colors: Desert Sand, Lava Black, Stormy Grey, and Glacier Blue.

According to a promobil reader survey, 58% of motorhome owners reported defects in the past 12 months. Furniture problems rank fifth overall, but are more common in vehicles up to four years old.

The Jani family from Aalen is facing a severe crisis due to illness and financial hardship. Tanja Jani has been diagnosed with metastatic cancer and given a prognosis of three months to live. After losing their home and lacking funds, the family now lives in a 30-year-old caravan with mold and a rotting floor. A crowdfunding campaign has raised approximately €17,000 for funeral costs and to replace the dilapidated caravan.

German manufacturer Carthago has launched the C2-tourer luxury motorhome, built on Mercedes-Benz Sprinter or Fiat Ducato chassis. The model, ranging from 7.20 to 7.52 m in length and 2.17 m wide, features LED lighting, a 32-inch TV, driver assistance systems, and a garage for bicycles. Prices start at €121,150.

As part of a service campaign in Vlotho, police and organizers of the Ahorn-Treffen motorhome rally conducted a weighing check. On May 29, a mobile scale was set up at the entrance to the Überland campsite. The initiative aims to ensure compliance with permissible gross vehicle weight and proper cargo securing for safe travel.