Westfalia Wave: Iconic Brand Debuts First New Campervan for US in 20 Years

Even if you don’t know the name Westfalia, you’ve almost certainly seen one of the company’s vans.

In the ’50s, the German brand began converting Volkswagen’s iconic Type 2 Microbus into beloved campervans, resulting in a lasting archetype of the bohemian lifestyle. Production continued until the early 2000s, when changes in corporate ownership ended the production of Westfalia campers.

Now, after a 20-year absence from the U.S. market, Westfalia aims for a comeback.

Westfalia Wave Debuts

The Westfalia Wave debuts this week at the Florida RV SuperShow in Tampa — and it’s not interested in nostalgia. Rather than offering fans a Volkswagen update, Westfalia has built its new model from a modern standard: the RAM Promaster.

That’s likely because expectations for van life have changed since the VW’s cultural heyday at Woodstock, and Westfalia seems to understand that. With the Wave, the company offers a camper more in line with current expectations about comfort and amenities.

Measuring a snug 20 feet, 9 inches, it features an “easy” foldout combination for the front bench seat/bed and storage for larger gear like paddle boards and mountain bikes.

Westfalia Wave: Features

If you’ve got a big family (or a lot of friends), the Wave has plenty of sleeping options packed into a small package.

Westfalia claims that the van can comfortably accommodate up to six people. Two individuals can sleep in the primary bed at the back, two more in the pop-top roof, and an additional two in the bed that converts from the dinette table over the driver’s seat.

There’s also a full bathroom, albeit in a wet bath layout with a cassette toilet. A robust kitchen includes a refrigerator, microwave oven, and a propane stove, all powered by the same heating source as the Truma Combi furnace/water heater. The Wave also comes with 600Ah of batteries and a 3,000W inverter, controlled through a tablet-style system.

While specific powertrain details are yet to be revealed, recent Promaster 3500s come with a 3.6L V6 engine producing 276 horsepower and paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission.

Westfalia Wave: Pricing & Availability

Pricing details are currently undisclosed as the Wave slowly makes its way toward widespread availability in the U.S. But the cost of a RAM Promaster 3500 starts at $54,760, so it’s likely that the Westfalia Wave will far surpass six figures. But, that’s hardly uncommon in an increasingly crowded (and expensive) campervan marketplace.

If you’re traveling to the Florida Super RV Show this week, check out the van in person at booth 660 East Midway at the Florida State Campgrounds. Visitors have a chance to win a $1,800 prize pack, including a paddle board and cooler, Westfalia said. It should arrive in showrooms later this year.

Motorhomes to Rooftop Tents: How to Choose the Best RV (or Camper) for You

Which RV is right for you? Is it an SUV with a rooftop tent or a 40-foot-long motorhome? This guide to truck campers and motorhomes will help you decide. Read more…