The German automaker's Grand California tempts across the pond with a slick Dune Special Edition for the UK.A few months ago, Volkswagen kicked off a string of Transporter and Buzz releases with a refreshed Grand California.As the flagship RV remains out of reach in the States, it made for a tempting vision of the brand's camper van expertise.The Ascot Grey is a handsome color for the Grand California. - Credit: VolkswagenNow the brand is back to remind us of what we're missing by expanding the availability of a sweet special-edition treatment. Even with the new horizons, it's still not destined to come to North America.A UK Dune Special EditionIt's called the Dune Special Edition, and it's a take on the Grand California that Volkswagen first introduced for European markets. As of this week, it's now available to order in the UK in both 600 and 680 variants.The black cladding and wheels give it a rugged vibe. - Credit: VolkswagenIf you happen to live across the pond, there's good cause to be excited, as the effort delivers some meaningful changes to the brand's largest and most capable camper.On the visuals side, Volkswagen's Dune Special Edition adorns the Grand California with a striking Ascot Grey color and an exclusive black grained bumper. It's a sharp look, as it rides on a set of matching black 17-inch alloys and wears Dune decals on the front and sides.The rear bed platform includes built-in springs. - Credit: VolkswagenHowever, it's not just an aesthetic remix. As part of the package, Volkswagen also throws in a few choice tech options to further refine the experience.In addition to some LED headlights and DRLs with auto headlight control, this means it also brings ambient lighting, climatronic air conditioning and a reversing camera.Volkswagen includes camping equipment, and you can improve the experience with plenty of other upgrades. - Credit: VolkswagenVolkwagen's Grand foundationOf course, what makes the Dune Special Edition ultimately so compelling is its Grand California foundation. The vehicle has been the top of Volkswagen's camper hierarchy since its debut in 2018, a proper motorhome built on the Crafter platform.The interior is far more spacious than the smaller Transporter-based California. - Credit: VolkswagenCompared to the smaller California that's based on the Transporter, the Grand is a far roomier rig. Both the 600 and the 680 lengths include a fixed bed, a wet room with shower and toilet and a fully stocked kitchenette.Moreover, they boast gas stoves and sinks, and they come with essentials like built-in bed springs, standard camping furniture and insect screens.The front and side graphics contribute to the Dune Special Edition's adventurous look. - Credit: VolkswagenVolkswagen also bundles in a suite of driver aids, like Crosswind Assist, adaptive cruise control and Side Assist. With front-wheel drive and 4Motion powertrain options, it's made only more tempting because of the variety of available equipment upgrades.Availability and pricingThe Grand California Dune Special Edition is available now in the UK. Volkswagen lists pricing for the 600 from £85,408 (including VAT) on its site.Volkswagen Grand California Dune Learn More About the Author: Gray is an associate editor at Gear Patrol, covering cars, motorcycles and anything else with wheels. When he's not chasing the latest industry news, he's probably wrenching on one of many projects. For better or worse, he believes classics make perfectly practical daily drivers.
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