Citroën enters the camper van market with the Holidays Max, offering a 180 hp diesel engine, elevating roof, and practical interior at a price that undercuts the Volkswagen California. We examine its strengths, weaknesses, and real-world usability.
Citroën has launched the Holidays Max, a camper van based on the SpaceTourer, aiming directly at the dominance of the Volkswagen California in Spain. With a 180 hp BlueHDI diesel engine, automatic EAT8 gearbox, and a host of clever features, the French brand is betting on comfort and value for families seeking adventure without overspending.
The Holidays Max stands out with its updated front end and the new Citroën logo, giving it a more refined look. Measuring 4.98 meters long, 1.99 meters high, and 2.01 meters wide, it remains compact enough for city driving but spacious inside. Dual sliding doors make access easy and allow for outdoor cooking, while the Max version adds a rear window that opens independently—useful when you don't want to lift the entire tailgate.
The camper van market in Spain has grown steadily as families seek flexible, affordable ways to travel without sacrificing comfort.
Interior Technology and Comfort
Inside, the Holidays Max impresses with digital instruments and a multimedia system offering wireless connectivity. The central console features a wireless phone charger and two USB-C ports, though some dashboard plastics feel less premium. The overall layout is practical, with a focus on usability over luxury.
Sleeping and Living Solutions
The lower bed is firm, and a supplementary mattress is recommended for longer trips. Removing the rear seats increases cargo space, but the process is cumbersome. The lounge area is easily configured by rotating the front seats toward the standard folding table, which can also be mounted outside for meals in the open air.
Kitchen and Storage
The kitchen module includes a functional sink with integrated cold water tap and a two-burner gas stove, with space below for a butane cylinder. The 16-liter fridge is small for four adults, but storage is well thought out, with several roller-shutter cabinets and drawers for organizing luggage and supplies.
Autonomy and Climate Control
A touchscreen panel controls the water pump and monitors the auxiliary batteries. The Webasto stationary heater ensures warmth during cold nights, while a 25-liter water tank supplies the outdoor shower. A 120-watt solar panel helps keep the auxiliary battery charged, and the pop-up roof houses a comfortable upper bed with plastic spring supports.
Performance and Driving
The tested model uses the 180 hp diesel engine, but a 145 hp BlueHDI with manual transmission is also available. The EAT8 automatic gearbox is smooth and responsive, but the van's 2,300 kg weight means real-world fuel consumption hovers around 9 liters per 100 km. On winding roads, body roll is noticeable, but the electric steering is light and accurate. Traction modes for snow, mud, or sand help in challenging conditions.
Noise and Equipment
The fabric roof could offer better sound insulation, as wind noise and vibrations are present at highway speeds. Some practical extras, like folding chairs and a side awning, are only available as paid options, which may disappoint buyers expecting a fully equipped camper.
Price and Market Position
Official pricing for the Citroën Holidays starts at €57,500, with the Max trim reaching €65,800. This represents a significant saving compared to the Volkswagen California Ocean, making the Citroën a compelling alternative for those prioritizing value and equipment over ultimate refinement. While it doesn't surpass the California in luxury, it matches much of its functionality at a more accessible price point.
For those comparing the latest options in the segment, it's worth noting how other brands are also pushing boundaries in design and technology, as seen in the recent comparison of new German SUVs like the Mercedes GLA and Audi Q3, detailed in this analysis of premium crossovers.
Context and Outlook
The rise of camper van travel in Spain reflects a broader shift toward flexible, family-oriented holidays. Citroën's entry into this market signals growing competition and more choices for buyers. While the Holidays Max may not redefine the segment, it offers a strong balance of price, practicality, and comfort—qualities that are likely to appeal to a new generation of Spanish road-trippers.
