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Volkswagen celebrates 30 years of the California with anniversary edition

  • The VW California camper celebrates three decades on sale
  • Anniversary marked with California 30 Years edition
  • 999 to be made, 30 of which bound for the UK

Written by Tom Webster Published: 6 November 2018 Updated: 6 November 2018

The VW California is celebrating its 30th birthday and Volkswagen is releasing a special edition to mark the occasion.

The appropriately named California 30 Years is a limited-edition version of the camper, with 999 being made worldwide. Of those, just 30 are coming to the UK, making it the most exclusive version that VW has made in the California’s history.

It was shown off at the 2018 Dusseldorf Caravan Salon, but has now been confirmed for the UK.

What equipment does the 30 Years come with?

The California 30 Years is based on the top-of-the-range Ocean trim, so starts from a high level of kit, but it adds some more bespoke touches on top.

It comes with a numbered plaque on the pillar behind the front door, full LED headlights and a removeable tow bar. The door mirrors and roof are finished in a contrast colour – either grey or silver – and there is the option of a new shade of yellow for the first time.

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VW California 30 Years side on
VW California 30 Years side on

Inside, the 30 Years comes equipped with the top level of VW’s satellite navigation and infotainment system – the Discover Media Navigation Pro – that comes complete with App Connect, which allows you to control your mobile phone apps from the screen.

It also comes with front and rear parking sensors, cruise control, heated front seats and side scan, which warns when there is approaching traffic when you are changing lanes.

There’s no bathroom, though, to get that you need fo go for the Grand California, which is due to arrive in 2019.

Which engines can I have in the California 30 Years?

You aren’t restricted to the top-level engine on the 30 Years, with a choice of three versions on offer.

There is a choice between the 150hp 2.0-litre diesel and the 199hp 2.0-litre, with the latter also available in four-wheel drive. All versions come with the seven-speed DSG automatic gearbox as standard.

How much does the California 30 Years cost?

If you want all this kit then it doesn’t come cheap – pricing starts at £64,307 (including VAT) for the lower-powered version and £67,097 for the 199hp model. If you want the all-wheel-drive model then that takes the price up to £70,629.

Also read:

VW California full review on Parkers Vans and Pickups

VW Grand California details

Mercedes-Benz X-Class camper and kitchen conversions