Exploring the World of Automatic VW California Campervans
If you are looking to hire an automatic VW Campervan then look no further! The allure of the open road is irresistible, especially when you’re behind the wheel of a modern VW California campervan with an automatic gearbox.
Can you hire a VW Campervan with an automatic gearbox?
Yes. Southampton Campers is proud to offer you a choice of campervans to hire for an experience that combines comfort, style, and environmental conservation. As you set out on your journey, you’ll quickly realise the array of benefits that come with an automatic gearbox.
Our Automatic VW Campervans for hire

4
2+2
Dog-Friendly
Automatic
Toilet/Shower
Grand California 600
2+2 Berth
From £154 per night
The Benefit of Improved Fuel Economy

If you’re concerned about fuel efficiency (and who isn’t?), the automatic VW California campervan has you covered. Although it might seem counterintuitive, automatic gearboxes can actually offer improved fuel economy. This is because they’re designed to optimally switch gears at the right time, every time. This reduces engine strain, resulting in less fuel being burnt. It’s a win for your wallet and for long, uninterrupted travels in your campervan. Automatic VW California campervans have up to 10% improved fuel economy over manual versions
Lower Emissions: A Step Towards Sustainable Travel

Aside from the cost savings, choosing a campervan with an automatic gearbox can also significantly reduce your carbon footprint. Lower fuel consumption translates to lower CO2 emissions. By opting for an automatic, you’re not just embarking on an adventure, you’re also taking a stride towards sustainable travel and showing your commitment to protecting the world we explore. Automatic gearboxes in VW California campervans produce up to 15% lower CO2 emissions
Experience a Smoother, More Relaxing Drive
Think about the last time you drove a manual in heavy traffic or on steep hills. Stressful, wasn’t it? Now, imagine a driving experience where the vehicle does all the work for you, leaving you to focus on your epic road trip. That’s what you get with an automatic campervan. No more clutch control, no more stalling on hills.
On top of that, the automatic gearbox in our VW California campervan smooths out the jerks and jumps associated with manual gear changes, resulting in a smoother ride. This increased ease and comfort can make a world of difference, especially on long journeys, making your adventure all the more enjoyable. Automatic gearboxes reduce driver fatigue by 30% compared to manual gearboxes
By choosing Southampton Campers and hiring our automatic VW California campervans, you’re choosing a more relaxed, comfortable, and eco-friendly travel experience. And after all, isn’t that what a perfect road trip is all about?
Key benefits of an Automatic VW Campervan
Benefit | Automatic VW California Campervans | DSG Gearbox |
---|---|---|
Fuel Economy | Improved fuel economy | DSG offers optimal gear switching, reducing fuel consumption; up to 10% improved fuel economy over manuals |
Emissions | Lower emissions | DSG contributes to lower CO2 emissions; up to 15% reduction compared to other automatics |
Driving Experience | Smoother, more relaxing drive | DSG provides a smoother ride, reducing driver fatigue by 30% compared to manual gearboxes |
Environmental Impact | Sustainable travel choice | DSG supports eco-friendly driving, aligning with environmental conservation efforts |
Ease of Operation | Automatic shifts for a stress-free drive | A smoother, more relaxing drive |
Campervan Comfort | Comfortable and relaxed travel | DSG enhances comfort on long journeys, contributing to a more enjoyable road trip |
How to Get the Most From Your DSG Gearbox
Automatic gearboxes have become a standard feature in modern vehicles, and one innovative example is the Direct Shift Gearbox or DSG. Below, we’ll delve into the key features and operational tips to help you make the most out of your DSG gearbox.
Understanding the DSG Gearbox
DSG stands for Direct Shift Gearbox, offering a unique approach to automatic transmissions. Unlike traditional automatics, the DSG combines the convenience of automatic shifting with the precision and control of a manual gearbox. It is not a traditional automatic but more like a manual gearbox with electronics. Unlike a true automatic, the DSG gearbox allows the vehicle to move ever so slightly when in Park and the hand brake is released. You’ll probably only ever notice this when you need to rotate the driver’s seat on a slight incline.
Starting Your Journey
To kickstart your journey with a DSG-equipped vehicle, ensure your foot is on the brake pedal and the selector is in ‘P’ for Park before turning the key. This safety measure allows you to start the vehicle and grants you the ability to shift the gear stick from park to reverse, neutral, or drive.
Gear Stick and Dashboard Display
The gear stick serves as your interface with the DSG gearbox, indicating the selected gear. Simultaneously, the dashboard prominently displays the chosen gear, ensuring you stay informed about the vehicle’s operational state.
Navigating through Modes
Understanding the different modes is crucial. Park is for secure parking and locks the gearbox, reverse activates the reverse gear as you would expect as well as turning on the reversing camera. Neutral disengages the gearbox for idle situations, such as being towed. Drive is the primary mode for forward movement, and there’s even a Sports mode that allows for longer revs and increased speed.
Manual Control Option
One distinctive feature of the DSG gearbox is its manual or semi-manual function. By shifting to manual mode by pushing the gear lever over to the right , you gain manual control over the gears. You can then toggle the gears by nudging up or down on the gear level. The gearbox, however, intelligently protects itself, automatically returning to lower gears when needed. To return to fully automatic mode, simply push the gear lever back to the left.
What are the benefits of hiring an automatic VW California campervan from Southampton Campers?
When you choose to hire an automatic VW California campervan from Southampton Campers, you’re choosing convenience, efficiency, and an altogether premium travel experience. The benefits are truly considerable and go far beyond what we have covered in this short blog post. Why not try for yourself?