(Mon 23 Nov 09)

The latest-generation Volkswagen Caravelle and California are available to order now from Volkswagen Van Centres, and UK deliveries are expected to start in February.

In each case, the previous five-cylinder diesel engine has been replaced by a more powerful two-litre four-cylinder, which is available in 138bhp and twin-turbo 178bhp forms. Despite the extra power, fuel economy, CO2 emissions and noise levels are all lower than before, and the service intervals have increased.

Both models benefit from improved front seats, new instruments (including, for the first time, a gearchange indicator) and new radio/CD units, while the options list now includes DAB digital radio, touchscreen satellite navigation and a reversing camera. On the safety front, there's now a passenger airbag deactivation switch, a seatbelt reminder, cornering lights, emergency brake lights (they flash when the driver is braking very hard), hill hold control and an upgraded ESP system which includes Rain Brake Support. Lane change assist and a tyre pressure monitor are available as options.

Prices start at £31,400 for the short-wheelbase Caravelle SE, £32,400 for the long-wheelbase version, £34,100 for the more highly-equipped Executive (short-wheelbase only) and £39,950 for the California.

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