Is the VW California Ocean T6 actually *BETTER* than the NEW T6.1?!
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 1 ต.ค. 2024
- Between 2018 and 2020 we owned a Volkswagen T6 California Ocean and then in 2021 we picked up our new T6.1 Ocean.
This is a genuine owners comparison video after having lived with and owned both. It’s not as easy as you’d think - as there are some things that we think VW have MADE WORSE but there are some GREAT things about the T6.1 too.
Let us know in the comments below which model you think is better and why, and if there is anything you’d like to see on the T6.1 that they have dropped or left out.
Link to Brandrup Shower Pocket: bit.ly/3nwSSxJ
Finally, a BIG thank you to Mohammed at Listers VW Van Centre in Coventry for sorting us out with a T6 Ocean to film. Check them out if you are interested in a California.
Keep a look out for our other new videos coming to the channel soon and a BIG thank you to all of our wonderful subscribers. We can’t wait to share more content with you over the coming months.
Take care, sit back and grab yourself some California Time !
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Very honest and unbiased review, even though you do own a T6.1 after all. That‘s why I keep enjoying your factual informative videos!
I do agree on everything that you guys have said. I still cannot work out why VW added some nice, modern and sometimes overdue upgrades to the 6.1, but took at the same time some step backwards, especially in the dash/driving area. We‘ll probably never know.
Great video, keep them coming guys!
One word I think... profits (/cost)!! Thank you for your kind words on our videos :)
There is a reason for the dash: They originally never planned on releasing the Cali 6.1. As it was kind of late in the T6.1 production cycle, it actually didn't get the "Multivan" style spec on the dash board, but rather the normal "Transporter" style (with a few little material changes, but same in terms of functionality). Pretty sad, as the Cali was always the top spec for T-Series (5 and onwards) before. Especially considering the price.
PS: Got that information from the dealer when collecting our T6.1 Cali. Pretty obvious "downgrade" even when comparing it to our old T5 Cali.
Great video! I have a 2016 T6 Ocean, so to see the T6.1 differences is really interesting. I must say I prefer the cab and dash of my T6 (especially the extra storage), however the upstairs bed 'comfort pods' look really good on the 6.1. Those tambour doors have to be treated very gently.... I've added some very strong tank-tape on the inside of mine to stop them coming apart! I also prefer my one-piece glass worktop in the back but, I'm very jealous of those under-counter LED strips on the 6.1! As with everything, its horses for courses. The airline cupboard at the back seems a lot better on the 6.1, again, I have to open mine carefully, keeping it very square and I have to use both hands. That said, I cut my VW camper teeth on several spitscreens, bay windows, and a lovely 1989 T25 Westfalia (which interestingly has a layout almost identical to a T6 Ocean, which proves that good design lasts) so our T6 is frankly a modern marvel by comparison! It might not have the charm of the vintage ones, but.... the reliability, safety features and sheer bomb-proofness of the new ones is enough for me. It's my daily driver as well, and a fantastic all-rounder. And of course, a very much loved member of the family, as all good campervans should be :)
What a great campervan history you’ve got! Very jealous !
Sorry forgot to say thank you for a very informative video it was a great insight into bot models , i prefer the T6.1 , but not impressed by the backward step in the cab area ,
Thanks again for a great comparison between the two models 😊
You’re very welcome 😊
How do you make 10% + profit each year? You cut corners...
The final fit and finish is quite different between the two. I also wonder if they are trying to cover the costs of other things that are now included, such as the digital dashboard etc.
6.1 for me but would look cooler with 19” or 20” wheels. Looking to trade in my Golf GTE Advance shortly against a California Ocean now my wife’s retired to getaway. Great video 👍
Thanks! We keep toying with the idea of nice big wheels and lowering ours but don’t want a harsh ride or awful mpg from wide wheels. So torn!
Love the video! In about 17 years I can legally import one of these beauties to the U.S. of A. Until then I'll be stocking up on used cooking oil. Cheers!
Good level of detail here - thanks! I think a lot is about personal preference. For me the biggest missed opportunities for improvement on the T6.1 are 1) audio system not usable long term in camping mode and 2) it still has a mechanical handbrake instead of a neat little button to trigger an electric parking brake. Personally as I am moving from a luxury SUV to a Cali the driver comforts (digi dash etc) are very welcome. I wonder about the plastics too…. Knowing what a bashing these vehicles take maybe the scratchy plastic is a better bet as the more luxurious feel could easily wear/mark?
Thank you for the kind comments. Agree totally on the two points you made re missed improvements. Seem simple to me too and would have made a big difference to the camping experience. Plastics, you're probably right, although it might depend on usage / kids / dogs / all weather camping etc etc ! We're really careful and our old T6 was in perfect condition when we sold it with 24k miles on it, but it is only Sarah, myself and the pooch though..
As I continue with the decision making of which VW California to purchase this was a super informative video.
You’re very welcome 👍
Great video! Thanks a lot for this really honest comparison. We own a late 2019 T6 California Ocean and had also a chance to compare both models and we can agree most of the points you mentioned. Especially the scratchy plastic we also noticed and I can imagine that it is not easy to point out negative points of his own car. So, thanks again for your honest comparison. In the end both models are great camper vans.
So, thank you very much. We are really looking foward to your next videos.
Greetings from Germany!
Thanks, glad you enjoyed it
T6 and the T6.1 are great vans which will hold the valve.or even go up in valve.the T7 which is Ford wet belt engine no chance
Smart and accurate comparaison , as usual with you . T6.1 is our first Van ever , so no background but i was pretty disapointed receiving Digital dash + Discover media 8' options .. without any way getting report map/GPS on D cockpit . Serial feature in many SEAT /SKODA cars , pretty cheap behavior from VW !
Totally agree! Very cheap from VW and only software required!!
@@CampervanTime can you explain what it means?
@@benohanlon yep - they are referring to the fact that if you have the standard satnav and digital dashboard in the T6.1 Ocean, you can't have a map on the satnav screen AND the digital dashboard at the same time. You have to upgrade the satnav to the bigger screen version for that to work. It is a bit penny pinching from VW!!
Comprehensive and clear assessment.
My T6.1 favourites include: latching back rest, improved fuel emissions, digital dash, electric side door and upstairs bed.
I would have preferred the softer dash touches but like the controls and driving experience of the 150ps
The roof control panel has some useful options but agree at the expense of usability.
I seem to land up with the cabin lights fully on when I unlock and then need to pfaff around with the control panel to turn them off.
I'm sure there must be a setting buried somewhere in the menus. Also pleased I opted for the infotainment with knobs rather than touch switches.
The pop up canvas also appears to have side stiffeners which seem to fold the canvas in effectively, without the need for a bungee. Not sure if this has been improved over the T6.
I opted for the Coast with light oak finish on the cupboards, fewer front seat back pockets and a manual roof at a significant cost saving.
Another key decision was the California sliding rear seat, which comes forward for travel with passengers creating a large boot storage space.
Overall the driving and camping experience is good and offers improved comfort and a more genteel experience than our sailing boat.
Thanks for the summing up ! 👍i prefer the t6 more, less electronics and therefore less problems 🥴
Well I must admit there is quite a bit more 'black box' type stuff in the T6.1 - ie you've got no chance of fixing it at home. At least even with the camper control module on the T6 if the knob broke off they do a repair kit etc.
You can put my 2006 T5 up against yours next! The driving dynamics have certainly improved with age. Still both pretty miserable to sit in on an awful day in the middle of a muddy field!
Sounds like a great idea! I'd love to see if we could get a T5, T5.1, T6 and T6.1 all together at some point - would be great to see all the little changes over the years 👍
We could do a Top Gear type road trip to compare fuel consumption, try each other's top bunk for comfort. I'd get a £55k start in any race!
Ha! Yes you are right enough there!! Always up for a bit of a laugh for sure !!!
This is an excellent and most helpful comparison - many thanks guys
Hi Guys - had my T6 2019 Ocean for about 5 weeks and more-than a dozen drives. "Secret bottle store below shaky pull-out cupholders....." Wait, whaaaaat? Had to nip out to van and yes, there it is! Not mentioned in comprehensive handover or discovered in any of my time in van. Bonus!
Pleased with my rear pull-out tray add-on but agree it wouldn't be needed on the T6.1 with the clever rear-deck raising thingy. Good work though with the video and lots learned. I'm sure most owners would 'prefer' exactly what they bought (!) and for me at the time of buying used, I didn't see the extra £££ for (e.g.) a 2020 T6.1 over the late-model 2019 T6. It's good to see the T6 holds-up reasonably favourably against its newer brother; I thought there would be a bigger difference. Thanks again and keep-up the great work!
Oh thank you Andy (as ever, can't thank you enough!). Glad you found something out that you didn't know about, I always love that when it happens in a new video. Sarah also tells me that a bottle of wine fits in that lower pull out big holder too - although not shut I don't think.. 🥂🍷
Yeah the differences are maybe a hard sell . Prefer more cab dashboard space , like the more cared for non scratchy plastic . It’s a bit refined in places . Some of the equipment is better . Suppose really personally you have to weigh up the pro’s and con’s and go for what you want . But yes this helps . Having someone like yourselves taking the time to inspect let’s say with a microscope , does give ideas .👍❤️🐾
Glad you enjoyed it!
Also in the T6 under the control panel there is a little place specifically made for your sunglasses 👌
I had a T6 , and now i have a T6.1 , the biggest disappointment in the T6.1 is the cab area, you lose all the storage , you dont even have enough space in the glove box for the user manual which is crazy
The other new upgrades are a lot better in the T6.1
Yes agree re sunglasses holder, forgot about that!
Good video. In fact all of your videos have been very useful & informative. I was particularly impressed with the one concerning particulate filter regeneration AND diesel in the engine oil. I have some experience in rebuilding engines & bodywork & to my shame, it never even occurred to me that oil expanded when hot!. Two things I must ask you, as I will be taking delivery of a new Cali Coast around April-May sometime. New Cali owners are apparantly being advised by UK dealers to change the timing belt & water pump at relatively low mileages (20k in one case); far less than in the manual. Have you heard about this? Any comments?
Also, concerning the lack of space for the left foot in the drivers footwell; after having driven some more miles in your 6.1, have you got used to it ? I take a size 8.5 shoe & after sitting in a new 6.1 Coast for a couple of minutes at the dealer yesterday, it didnt seem too bad, but I will only know after doing a long journey. Do you have any additional comments on this?
Hi! Congrats on the order, bet you can’t wait! Timing belt and water pump - no, haven’t heard that. Certainly nothing from our dealer and haven’t read about it either. Lack of left ‘dead’ pedal / foot rest, well, it would be nice if it had it but we have adapted and yesterday did a 300 mile drive in 5hrs (so basically non-stop) and it was fine. I do tend to find the drivers seat backrest does like to recline just slightly over the course of a long drive though, which is quite amusing ! Good luck with the new van!
I'd try the 6 first as it will be cheaper now
i own a t6 not a cali .but would like a t6 dash with digital clocks from a t6.1 ? best of both worlds lol 👍
So would we!!
We bought Peggy 1 week ago! Our decision was made due to the long lead times quoted for a new 6.1. We decided as a family with two small children to buy a California and started our hunt for a nearly new van and fell in love with the two-tone look and spec. We didn’t appreciate the differences between the two models and must admit we do like the dash with plenty of cubbyholes although the digital dash on the 6.1 looks nice too.
Thanks so much for your great videos which have really helped us shortlist accessories to buy. We are off to Chatsworth this weekend for our first overnight stay!
Hello! Congratulations, we're so glad Peggy has a new home so soon! You will love it I am sure. Have a great first night away!
hi great video, it was very useful, thankyou.
do you do another video of driving a 6.1
we are trying to descide between a 6 and a 6.1
we liked the look of the cab of the 6 but prefered the rest of the 6.1
Hi - yes we are planning to do a proper full review video of the T6.1 Ocean - driving, walk round, inside, outside etc etc. Just need time and daylight to film it!
Great video! When we got our T6.1 in 2020 we also thought that we did not need a pull-out tray because of that lovely movable board in the back. In our first trip the thing fell down at least 7 times, and made at least 4 scratches in the floor. Nice idea but horrible construction.
Ooooo dear! We haven’t had that problem but we will watch out for it!
Im waiting for the delivery of my t6.1 Beach Camper but to be honest i really prefer the looks of the t6, i was also surprised by the difference of quality in the dash and doors from the t6 to the t6.1 :(
Yes it is quite a difference in quality, although there is nothing wrong with the T6.1, it's just a bit more run-of-the-mill van cab, rather than proper-special like the T6 was...
Very interesting & thankfully reassuring lol .particularly tambour doors. I actually prefer the front of the 6, but Jules preferred the 6.1. Won’t be long 🤞. Thanks as ever.
Glad it was helpful, thanks for watching :)
I still can’t get it that people pay California-level money instead of getting a panel van outfitted with quality materials and pay less.
Different stokes for different folks I guess. Some may want the big dealer network from VW, or the factory warranty, or the heritage. The California also has a huge following and thus plenty of custom made aftermarket accessories available too. BUT you have to be happy with the layout, build quality etc as unlike a custom build you cant' change those bits!
Nicer materials everyday, all day. I didn't spec the digital cockpit display on the Coast I ordered so that tells you what I think of that feature.
😁 it certainly does! It's a bit marmite to be honest. It doesn't make the dash worse in our mind, but it doesn't really need it either. I wish they'd have saved the cash on the digital dash and spent it on a few covered cubbies in the dash like the T6 !
First Comment.. we have a T5.1 (yes facelift 2014 model) California SE which is the predecessor to the T6 Ocean. What are the differences between this and the T6?
My friend has T5.1 and I have a T6. Internally there’s not much difference, but the engine is different. I have the Euro 6 engine, where you have to add Ad Blue fluid every few thousand miles. However, this means my T6 is ULEZ compliant, whereas the T 5.1 isn’t, and you would have to pay to drive it in London and a few other places - Bath, Birmingham.
Hello! Well there are some obvious bits, such as the engine as stated below and the interior trim, dashboard design etc etc. I also think back then there was a LOT of stuff that you needed to add from the very basic standard spec, like parking sensors, DAB, bluetooth etc, if I remember correctly.
Ahh thanks for the comment and replies. Understood. I suppose ULEZ compliance means lower Road Tax. But unlikely to drive in London with it to camp 😜… maybe Bath though. It seems VW have stuck largely (tweaked) with the same Camper design from the T5 to the T6.1 as it works. When the T7 comes around that will be all new I suspect.
Love your videos…
In 6.1 you can also slide both doors in the cupboard. I always do ;)
Really? We can't on ours. If you have the right hand side door fully open (slid left), we can't then press the button in on the left hand cupboard door to open it. It's a pain because if you have just got something out of the cutlery drawer you need the door open wide, then have to shut that door first before you can go in the other. Do you not have this issue on yours?
Good review, liked the finish of cab in t6 with soft panels but for me the t6.1 wins it!,! Thanks xc
Thanks very much, glad you enjoyed it 👍
We have just fitted the Froli bed system to our T6.1 conversion , definitely worth the investment 👍
We think they make a big difference - good innovations 👍
Thankyou , very interesting. Do you have a carbon dioxide/fire alarm in your van ?
Safe travels 👍
Hi! We don't have those but maybe should. The Cali is quite well ventilated even if you have a roof topper on so we've not been overly concerned. Fire is another matter of course. Certainly seems like a good thing to consider (both).
@@CampervanTime we have a very small 12v carbon monoxide alarm that is the size of a cigarette lighter and has a usb port on the top . We put it in the 12v socket upstairs when we are parked up for the night . Hubby got it on internet 👍
The difference is like 2 variations of a German Limburger cheese. It's a taste test and VW are definitely cheaping out with material quaility on newer model vehicles across the range. Unforntunately I can't afford either of these big cheeses, but for those that can your post was helpful and informative.The price of cheese today... Shockin' 🤓
great, helpful vid. I’m going straight from. 5.0 to 6.1 so have never seen a 6.0 inside: the 6.1 “scratchy plastic” dash and door internals seem more similar to the 5.0 which is a shame.
Also wondering if anyone has slammed the tailgate with the back cubby door open XD
Don't worry, you've love the T6.1 I am sure - it's only when you see one next to a T6 that you really notice the difference really. We've also seen LOADS of T6 with the nice fabric section on the door all scuffed up because people have tried turning seats round without learning how first!
The tailgate / cubby thing scares us to death!! I kind of know it's going to happen at some point.. not looking forward to that.
I have, on a dark campsite, closed the tailgate and hit myself over the bridge of my nose with the latch on it, drawing blood and with it pouring everywhere in the van !! Only plasters we had were kiddy multi coloured ones. Cue meal in pub for dinner and lots of laughter !!
@@CampervanTime that’s gotta smart! but skin grows back, and I bet those cubby doors cost a fortune!
I bet they do !!
I like the 6.1. I like making names from registrations, pegy is a good one, but I can see why you didn't read out the second one. Haha if you read the whole redge, it's a rather rude one 🤣
Reminds me of my old Hyundia Trajet. I hate scratchy plastic so won't be getting one of those. Thanks
Please can you tell me where you got your blanket on the back seat? It’s very bright and cheerful 😄
Sarah will be along shortly to answer that!! I don't get involved in Cushions, Blankets etc.. I'd get it wrong 😂
Hi Jenni, Sarah here ☺️ The shop I bought it from doesn’t seem to have it anymore, but not to worry - I’ve found it here! thebritishblanketcompany.com/products/xl-rainbow-stripe-herringbone-throw?variant=33205441527885&gclid=CjwKCAiAv_KMBhAzEiwAs-rX1ClE9_JuFpYla6F_EOJfaZNlc8OD4_9iegtOxbcSiW8ycB-21nbueRoCW6wQAvD_BwE looks like they do two sizes and this is the bigger one 👍
Interesting thanks
You are welcome
Hi could you please do one on 6.1camper heater or have you done it on a previous video ? Really interesting comparison.
Thank you. We can certainly look at doing a heater one, great idea.
@@CampervanTime Hi Will, you've undoubtedly seen the numerous threads on the forum with 6.1 owners reporting heater "issues". Most of which, I am convinced are as a result of using Heat Immediately until the time limit is reached. I tend to pop a link to Cali Chris' video in these threads for assistance, but I am sure many would appreciate a more targeted video explaining how both modes work, why they exist and how the remote only operates one of the modes. Just a thought. Then we could link your vid instead ;~)
Yep, I agree. The daylight hours are not kind this time of year for filming as it really means weekends only are when we can sort new videos. We’ll do our best as soon as we can 👍
Brilliant video. I am in the process of buying a T6, and this has been so helpful.
Loved this sooooo much cracking attention to detail guys superb so interesting for so many people thinking about taking the leap ;)
Glad you enjoyed it! There is a lot to cover - more than we thought actually! We even missed a bit too - the location and power of the built in inverter... on the T6 is it just behind the passenger seat near the kitchen and is 150w, on the T6.1 it is in the base of the drivers seat near the handbrake and is 300w!
Oh... and not long for yours now too then ;)
@@CampervanTime it arrived in grimsby yesterday , message from salesman to say stop looking for ship names :)
@@CampervanTime ah yes of course , so informative and must have taken you ages to put all info together , i used to have a t5 and that comparison would be fab too at some point maybe (but then again where does that end lol with a split screen?) Just cracking and really professional thank you
Thank you! We are still getting to grips with the new camera so the autofocus had a bit of a mind of it's own and the exposure was slow to react too sometimes with a bright background and us in shot... still, each video we are trying to get slightly better!!
There is a metal arm to hold up the wire rear shelf on the t6 when getting things out of the boot. It unclips from the side bar and the end goes into a hole on the side panel.
Didn’t know that! You learn something new every day!
We looked at a cali before opting for a Volksleisure version. The cali seemed flimsy and full of hard surfaces, we have three rear seats on moveable rails, the domestic fridge has a vent catch so stays ajar when set, sun glasses go above the drivers door, we have removable carpets throughout, soft finishes to door cards, rear seat head rests drop so they are below the seat back too increasing rear wards view. We went for the 4 motion auto 204 hp option. Wouldn’t change it. We’ve had it 7 years now and done nearly 70000 miles.
Sounds great!
A great review . We’ve just bought the T6 secondhand early 2018. Not sure if the wing mirrors fold in . Do you know ? Don’t want to force them .
Have you tried pressing and holding the lock button on the remote?
A very interesting video. We have a late 2019 T6 and completely agree that the upholstery and flooring is a totally impractical colour. Otherwise the choice between a T6 and T6.1 looks fairly well balanced.
There are pros and cons of both that’s for sure. We still miss the general fit and finish of the T6 though, that dashboard, doorcards etc made it feel like a more luxury place to be. More so than a fancy TFT dashboard!
T6 all the way.
Great review 👍
We’re to buy in the USA?
Oh if only… sorry 😞
Excellent comparison of pros & cons of each, thanks so much for all your interesting videos. I had a 2009 T5 California 2.5 TDI auto which was “similar” in the living area but the cab area & driving experience/ noise were definitely commercial! From your own experience how would you compare the T6.1 chassis & engine/ gearbox to the T6? Happy camping
Thank you, that's very kind. The T6.1 is certainly more refined to drive than the T6. We had the 204 DSG model before, so feel as though we can compare reasonably well. The T6.1 sounds more muted from the outside, you can tell there are more filters/stuff in the exhaust system for sure. The DSG programming in the T6.1 is more lazy though (no doubt for emissions) and the later T6.1s have lost sport mode on the gearbox too. What is clear though is that the engine still pulls the same, you just need to give it a bit more encouragement than before. The T6.1 is more economical, which we find surprising. Our old (non-4motion) used to do 37mpg on the motorway at 70. Our new one does 40 to 41mpg. Our old one did have 235 section all-weather tyres and this new one has 215 section summers (well, until we changed them for winter wheels) so that might have affected that too.
hi, i love the videos you guys do.
at the back end of last year i brought a 6.1, im wanting to put a tracker device on it i the OBD port, i dont suppose you guys know where abouts it is?
Hi! Thanks for your kind words :) it’s under the steering wheel, but Will shows where it is on our Carista Video - see: th-cam.com/video/eAJPag3Iae4/w-d-xo.html
Hi guys it's me again, just a quick, just to say a big thankyou the video was very helpful.
Great and very useful video. Very timely for me as I’m looking at used versions of both, the t6 is very high spec so a match for the t6.1 in spec. The upstairs bed is a biggy for me though. One question you might be able to help me with please. I read somewhere that the t6 has an inverter so you can use the 230v socket without being hooked up (albeit at low 150 wattage, which is fine for my use case of charging a lap top). Are you able to confirm if that’s correct? Many thanks.
Yes that's correct - the T6 has a 150w inverter built in to the door pillar just in front of the kitchen. The T6.1 has an inverter too, a 300w one, and that is in the base of the drivers seat (on a right hand drive van).
@@CampervanTime thanks for taking the time to reply much appreciated.
@@CampervanTime I’ve just found your video on California electrics! Very helpful, your channel is a great resource. Thanks.
Informative video!
It will help if you can also give indication of price for the models in the video.
Ha! Good question, they change all the time and given the T6.1 is the current model you can still buy one of those new, whereas the T6 are all second hand now of course. A new VW California T6.1 Ocean starts from £73k for the 150hp model (8th May 2023)
@@CampervanTime totally agree with you, the cost will change depends on parts and modifications. New T6.1 being new and there is fixed list price too. I am interested to know the price for older models used in video to make a budget for future purchase. Thanks for replying.
Can your dog be there when you have the bed in use?
Yes, she’s quite small so is quite happy in that (small!) gap
Hi Will & Sarah, thanks for the video! You helped me make my mind up - we sold the T5.1 in August but couldn't last without one for too long and so we bought a lovely T6 Ocean last week ready for a bit of fettling. Hope to see you out there someday!
Superb! Really happy for you, enjoy fettling 😄
VERY BAD EXPLANATION. FIND EXPARTER TO DEFINE.