After owning loads of Cali’s I think it really good. There’s definitely a lot of Westfalia inspired ideas in my opinion. One of the reasons we moved over to a crafter from a cali was the bed was too small,😮I can’t believe they have made it smaller than the 6.1 bed . Lovely van loads of smart ideas but I’d never go bk there now.
The double doors and the split rear seats are a must. Agree that the drawer inserts look good, but in reality, reduce the storage by too much. Overall it’s a very impressive camper. Certainly one I would be interested in purchasing. 👍
Nothing new ….We’ve had both opening sliding doors on each side in our T5.1 since 2012. VW California are for those who have more money than imagination
May I ask what your opinion is of the ground clearance on the T7? We have a T6.1 Cali and drive onto riverbeds and on dirt roads and it has been exceptional on uneven terrain. The T7 seems to have reduced ground clearance and worse departure angles than it's predecessor. The double sliding doors are awesome, The shower is better and so are the single back seats. Love the kitchen, except for the drawer inserts and the limited use induction cooktop. Would prefer two gas hobs or diesel Wallas cooktop. The lack of an inside sliding table is not an improvement either. Not enough room for our spaniel on the parcel shelf with mattress topper(her favourite travel spot). Overall, a beautiful looking vehicle and a lovely fit-out.
This CA Concept T7 is innovative with the two sliding doors and telescoping kitchen counter that has a sink, an induction burner and a gas hob. Plus the utensisl and dishes drawers that can slide both ways, and working wooden popup for serving outside, and induction one burner grill. These plus the awnings make for three rooms, four if you count the poptop bed. I am waiting to see how the six and seven passenger VW camper vans are designed. Perhaps an attachable tent for the driver's side sliding door can be customized for the van. Or an ingenious slide out to add bed spaces. The front two captain's chair space could be a bed as well. In our 1964 VW Camper Bus there was a hammock for the front space. I slept there. My brothers and parents slept in the back. We did not have a poptop. I love the modern look. As a PHEV I am supposing that the charged batteries can be the power supply when parked for the night or weekend. Fawn P, Illinois, USA
Had been thinking of buying a California for a while now but this new one looks impressive and adapted from a passenger car not a commercial so i might hold off til this is available.
What are you talking about? The T7 is bigger, just not as high. Here's a comparison between the VW T7 and VW T6: - **Length (mm):** - VW T7 Multivan: Approx. 4,973 mm - VW T6: Approx. 4,904 mm - **Width (mm):** - VW T7 Multivan: Approx. 1,941 mm - VW T6: Approx. 1,904 mm - **Height (mm):** - VW T7 Multivan: Approx. 1,907 mm - VW T6: Approx. 1,990 mm
That’s what I like about it, that’s it’s smaller and looking forward for it to come, not considering older ( and bigger) models. I want campervan after all, not a caravan
At first look I was impressed - although it's a bit Marco Polo like - and there is lots of cool tech and gadgetry. On reflection I don't know how practical it would be. Those easily scratched black glass panels, the table stored under the bed, the narrower beds, lack of storage space, the loss of it's sub 5m status and probable price hike makes me think I'll wait and see on this.
I watched the top gear review of the new van, yours was much better, more personalised, geared toward a family and not a TV review. Keep up the good work.
When you turn those rear seat around you'll get a lovely view of the storage locker. We had a Jobl with the RIB bench and you could have reclined at any angle so maybe possible 🤞
Like it, but I think the new Ford Nugget is a good alternative, has hot and cold water as well compared to the T7. Don’t like the idea of losing the sliding table.
I think the new nugget has improved the design of the car, took the advantages of the California, like the chairs on the tail gate and table on the door, added hot water and heated backseat, blinds. I ❤ the new nugget. I own a California T5.1 and I like it. But if I had to buy a new van I think I would go with the nugget. The T7 is a vw mistake and it seems they continue with the plan of making the California based on this car. Maybe decision makers should take a look at the history. The California has always been based on a van based vehicle not a car.
Has one of the designers ever went on a road-trip or camped for the weekend. I believe it’s changing more and more to a statement than a proper California vacation car!
Great video but it would be helpful to know the dimensions. Also what are the dimensions of the beds? I think that too much storage has been removed and I would really miss the sliding internal table
Thanks for sharing definitely some innovative features. Obviously a pre-sale model but it looks very low to me and I can't imagine a pleasant ride on what looked to be low-profile wheels. As Ducato owner I frequently find myself looking on with envy at the Ocean's and drift off to an imaginary place where I surf the days away. Then, I remember my shower and loo and get on with my day. 🙂
I went from a Ducato 5 berth to a VW pop top and they were both excellent to own. As a 2nd vehicle the smaller one was better obviously but a week or fortnight away the larger vehicle was better.
Are the back seats lower than in 6.1? I am 190 and in 6.1 I can barely sit comfortably and work on the folded table. 7 being shorter makes me wonder how taller people will feel inside.
On third Cali for work and play and I like this more than I thought I would, leccy parking brake for easy seat turning at last, split rear seat works for me and bike. Not bothered about gas as so many portable gas options but needs a bigger inverter to boil a kettle off grid. Improve the storage and needs a quick foldaway table inside. On EHU it would be handy if it subtly topped up the small drivetrain lithium after the leisure was full. I enjoyed GTE petrol hybrid for a while, so hoping that they will still have a petrol heater in this, and diesel heater in diesel options, if not I will hang on to the 6.1.
Personally I don't think they have a patch on the Ford Nugget or The range from Jerba VW Campervans as they are basically just the same layout every year , its only my opinion 😊
This is not a Transporter (commercial van). Therefore the carrying capacity/towing on this unit may be less. I hope there is a commercial version of the VW/Ford commercial van with a California/Ocean camper van.
Some good features but a few that would prevent me from purchasing. Induction hob would be wasted with me so they would need to offer a double gas hob option. Removing the internal sliding table for an external one is a deal breaker for me. Another deal breaker is it’s height and width. Personally I see the 6.1 becoming more valuable now
I love my t6.1 swamper but it's such a great use of space I could honestly say if I sold my swamper this would most definitely be a contender to adorn my driveway 🤟
Definitely innovative and very smart! Still think for the money it should have a scenic canvas to actually open fully. I love the twin sliders, fancy drawers and rear facing seats 🤙
After having T5 campervan for 10 years I can safely say its unfortunately to small. It's only a little bit bigger than the size of micro campers like the Belingo. If you a 5ft tall couple with no kids it might be ok.
they induction stove prevents you from any real camping adventures. A two burner propane stove is a better alternative. Will they offer the van without a kitchen? VW had the Weekender model which had no kitchen. Instead there was extra bed width, less weight without the water and fuel tanks, ergo better milage. Double sliding doors - FANTASTIC-
Looks awesome with some fantastic ideas and concepts but it's just too small, there's enough daily re arranging in the current Cali so IMO this will be worse, double doors should be an option as for me they are a waste of internal storage space and weight. Good review. Cheers K.
I would use the California for sleeping only and would love to have the flexability of the ordinary T7 for every day use and then just the popup roof and folding chairs below. Something like the Beach version without the kitchen but with the flexibel interior of the ordinary multivan. Then my family would be able to use it to go by electric motor to and from work and everything else AND as a place to sleep when traveling.
It looks similar to that Adria Active 1/2 a camper van offering a complete and utter let down compared to a conventional side kitchen layout and features.
Everything moves on however this might be a move to far? I would miss the inside table and the long wardrobe in my t6 …… do I need two doors? Lovely to look at but not for me. Wonder what the price will be might bring tears to your eyes 🥲 great review thanks
Nice and shiny! I’m sure VW will be able to market the California dream to plenty who have the money. The reality is - a weekend in that will see you at the chiropractor in no time. Sorry to be grumpy but the whole cali thing is becoming a bit of a joke to me! Loving your crafter build can’t wait to see more of that!! 👍❤
Honestly, they should change the name. So far none of the California campers have been importable to the USA. I would get one in a heartbeat if they were!
love the design, but practically speaking, those double doors take too much from the storage, and there is not a lot of it for travelling with four people.
Agreed space and comfort is most important. The T6.1 bench seat I found is the best and most comfortable with wide under drawer and attached toolbox. I would prefer to see that as standard. The comfort mattress draped over those double seats is a big "no" for me. Give me a manually-operated roof as well.
Shame it has no Solar and 4 seats only with no hot water and you have to go outside to get a table. New Nugget has all aforementioned I believe with more space.
Thanks for a great review, Given that the wheels look like 19" can you advise if the T7 Cali comes with a spare wheel, also the storage lost under the T6.1 bench seat might be a problem. As with all campervan owners we have all plethora of stuff that goes with vanlife so do not want more cups, cutlery etc. PS, your review on the Cali Coast back in 2021,convinced us to buy our Coast and we have been delighted with it. All the best, Wee Jimmy
Is it just me or does this seem like the roof is a lot lower than earlier generations of T vans? Also it just looks way too small all round to be a camper I'd be interested in. Is the standard T7 van this small as well? Tradespeople are not going to like how small this thing is - or at least how small it looks in this video.
@@atomic8468 Good to know there are other Californias. But is California Scotland known for it's palm trees, surfing and the phrase "California Dreaming"? All things that were part of the set for the concept show.
Looks too plush to me. My last camper was a T6 California which was good mix of comfort and utility and fairly robust. The T7 looks like a cocktail lounge on wheels and I bet it’s going to be close to £100,000 to buy new. It’s a shame but the way things are going I feel campervanning will be a rich persons pursuit. Happy camping!
The basic multivan hybrid is £60k. There doesn’t seem to be a wardrobe or as much cupboard/boot space as the T6.1. The height is an issue with the awning as well, with any slope for runoff you may only be able to stand near the door and not even there if you are 6’2” plus. Extra length equals more difficult to park. I expect start price to be 82k for Ocean spec.
@@ABusAndBeyond fingers crossed as that should help the value of my 6.1 Cali stay a little stronger! I wanted to hate it but I do like quite a few of the features, however I can’t help but think that it seems to have a fair amount less storage, the bed narrower and the lack of inside table.
I find it incredibly ironic that a camper that has the word "California" will not be available in California. WTF? If I'm mistaken about this, my apologies. But this is my understanding -- that this model will not be imported to the US.
This is great news for us in Australia! Finally doors both sides, so it’s street legal for Auz. But we’ll probably still not get them due to the gas 😔 Would need the gas bottle to be only accessible from the outside.
A much valued feature of the T6.1 California was the opening window built into the right hand side sliding door and above the kitchen on the left hand side. I don't see these on this T7 Concept. Maybe that will make it to the production version? A manually operated roof is an option I would prefer along with a single width 2-seat bed.
No manual gearbox option is mental. I love changing gears and actually driving not sitting like a moron with a computer doing everything. Get a computer to empty the porta potti I hate that!
@@ABusAndBeyond According to my investigation, it's 400mm longer than the standard T6 - in other words, the same length as the lwb version. The standard T6 camper outsells its bigger brother by about 20:1, in my estimation. People don't want the extra length in their drives and don't want to stick out conspicuously from car parking spaces where the vehicle could easily be hit by passing traffic. It's also 40mm wider, which will hamper the navigation of narrow country roads, which is precisely where people tend to drive when on scenic holidays. It's use as a daily driver in urban environments will also be compromised by its greatly increased size Camper vans and motor homes are entirely different and are used in entirely different ways.
A few cool features on this vehicle, but as a campervan I don't think it's particularly impressive. No bathroom, No hot water (?), No privacy area, Pretty small sink & fridge that are not very user friendly when you're standing up, Not much storage area for your luggage or things that don't fit in the cabinets, and that rear bed doesn't look very comfortable. On the other hand, if this vehicle meets your needs or fits your usage pattern then maybe it's good for you!
What your describing is a motorhomes, not a campervan. Plus it’s a quite a small platform. So realistically, it’s going to be extremely difficult to address all the wants you’ve outlined within a platform of this size. Maybe a Winnebago is what you need 👌🏻
Vw do you want to make a winning and success California? 1- Forget about using the T7. Looks horrible. It’s not a van. Dimensions are not ok for a California etc. 2- Create a bigger ID Buzz with the dimensions of a T6.1. A new transporter with the same look than the ID Buzz. And please create a nomal cockpit. Forget about these Tesla designs. ID looks awesome and transmits the spirit of the original Californias. Add petrol and hybrid options and you have it! 3- Use the same interior layout than a T6.1. 4 - Offer 2 options for the european market and the uk market and forget about the 2 sliding doors. 5- Add heated backseat like the new nugget 6- Add hot shower like the new nugget. 7 - Add as an option heated floor. 8- Create something new well isolated for pop top roof like the hymer venture s, that works on all climates.
I don’t understand how ideas 2 & 4 would benefit anyone. It would make the vans ultimately more expensive due to the multiple production lines and parts required to fulfill these requests.
@@stevemann6110 your are right. The thing here is that you cannot make a van that makes happy the european market and the uk market. As a California owner I honestly I don´t know what is happening in VW California's division because latest models such as Grand California or , this new T7 sucks. IMHO they should start working again with Westfalia. Ford is doing things correctly. They have taken all the advantages from the California and incorporated them into the new Nugget.
Anyone who has really camped at least once will tell you that this isn't a successful model. It is too tiny to have a real comfort. Simply the roof in T7 and overall sizes are too small comparing to T6's. 1.8m person won't find it comfortable to live even a day in this car. Looks great with all those bells and whistles but just not practical. I am staying with my T6 forever until it becomes a relic.
I think it has less storage due to 2 sliding doors under the kitchen, no sliding table, no storage under the backseat, you cannot use the backseat as a couch, bed downstairs is narrower, only 1,08 m and so on. Worst California ever. And the T7 looks horrible!!
I wish they focused on adding those missing things but keeping storage and the table, i.e. hot water option, proper inveter and solar option, get rid of Gas to improve storage space and use electric with more battery capacity onboard.
Yeah certainly lost a lot of storage space for sure. Not keen on the 2 separate seats at back and no storage drawer underneath. Probably would never use the other awning. Not all pitches would accommodate that width anyway. Not for us just now.
The problem I see adding these missing things are the dimensions of the base car. I knew from the beginning that the t7 is not a good car for a California. Additional VW is trying to find a formula that works for both the UK and the european market and gaining market share specially in the Uk. The reason of sliding doors is that. I tell you one thing if this model goes to production as shown in this video, don’t sell your T5.1,T6,T6.1. Prices of the classic models are going to sky rock.
More than just a concept, this van has more and has done more than that tiny T7 could hope for....... th-cam.com/video/fagf28lcMgE/w-d-xo.html ps: our roof doesn't need electricity or strut replacements.
Wider car, smaller beds?!?? Longer car, less space for clothing?!?? No inside table anymore, no table in the sliding door?!?? Even more problematic, if both try to sleep 'downstairs', with the T6 I find my spouse in the kitchen cupboards in the morning, because there is not enough space. That means a two-person camper, one sleeps upstairs, the other downstairs. Better buy a Westfalia Kepler One, that's got even a proper toilet.
Lower, narrower and with less storage than the majority of existing conversions. Doesn't make sense. The California has always been an expensive option and now it both expensive and impractical.
Amazing new van!? Awesome ? Sorry guys absolutely nothing you can’t already do with an old T4 - T5. Even hybrid is a bad idea as you’ll have to fill up or recharge on any Tour more than a couple hundred miles. Why are you guys so obsessed with California’s ? There are so many more awesome features on custom T4 & 5’s California’s are sole-less, the total antipathy of the originals that captured the essence of free thinking, free minded open life on the road.
Why spend all that development time and your money when it’s not going to be able to be sold after 2030, won’t be able to go into future Zero Emission Zones and won’t meet new Euro7 standards coming soon? Full electric is only way to go now and buying anything else will just drop like a brick with depreciation as nobody will want them
Problem with BEV camper and is weight. That’s why they are struggling to get a ID Buzz California into production. Keeping it under 3.5t is almost 😅 impossible. Plus, as a former EV owner, doing long distance in one is a pain in the arse. I’d never do a trip to Spain or Italy in a BEV. You’d spend more time charging than anything. I’ll stick to my ICE camper 👌🏻
Oh no! Too fussy, too expensive and hate those rear seats and not enough floor to ceiling space. Way better buying a Ford or other variants for enough left to buy a new car!!
Is it possible to get solar panels on the roof? Does it have Aircon / climate in the cabin when camping? Kind regards Lasse and Camilla, from Denmark.
After owning loads of Cali’s I think it really good.
There’s definitely a lot of Westfalia inspired ideas in my opinion.
One of the reasons we moved over to a crafter from a cali was the bed was too small,😮I can’t believe they have made it smaller than the 6.1 bed .
Lovely van loads of smart ideas but I’d never go bk there now.
The double doors and the split rear seats are a must. Agree that the drawer inserts look good, but in reality, reduce the storage by too much. Overall it’s a very impressive camper. Certainly one I would be interested in purchasing. 👍
It’s great seeing such a different design!
Nothing new ….We’ve had both opening sliding doors on each side in our T5.1 since 2012. VW California are for those who have more money than imagination
@@RS-su3ungood to know and what about the split rear seats?
Do you mean not cost efective but you pay for the efficiency of space right?
May I ask what your opinion is of the ground clearance on the T7? We have a T6.1 Cali and drive onto riverbeds and on dirt roads and it has been exceptional on uneven terrain. The T7 seems to have reduced ground clearance and worse departure angles than it's predecessor. The double sliding doors are awesome, The shower is better and so are the single back seats. Love the kitchen, except for the drawer inserts and the limited use induction cooktop. Would prefer two gas hobs or diesel Wallas cooktop. The lack of an inside sliding table is not an improvement either. Not enough room for our spaniel on the parcel shelf with mattress topper(her favourite travel spot). Overall, a beautiful looking vehicle and a lovely fit-out.
I like the fact that the concept T7 California has two sliding doors so it definitely is useful for the UK market.
Get a T5 and DIY
This CA Concept T7 is innovative with the two sliding doors and telescoping kitchen counter that has a sink, an induction burner and a gas hob. Plus the utensisl and dishes drawers that can slide both ways, and working wooden popup for serving outside, and induction one burner grill. These plus the awnings make for three rooms, four if you count the poptop bed. I am waiting to see how the six and seven passenger VW camper vans are designed. Perhaps an attachable tent for the driver's side sliding door can be customized for the van. Or an ingenious slide out to add bed spaces. The front two captain's chair space could be a bed as well. In our 1964 VW Camper Bus there was a hammock for the front space. I slept there. My brothers and parents slept in the back. We did not have a poptop. I love the modern look. As a PHEV I am supposing that the charged batteries can be the power supply when parked for the night or weekend. Fawn P, Illinois, USA
Had been thinking of buying a California for a while now but this new one looks impressive and adapted from a passenger car not a commercial so i might hold off til this is available.
Why does no one ever address the elephant in the room with these reviews about that fact that they’re just not as big as the old T5-T6.1 platform?
What are you talking about? The T7 is bigger, just not as high.
Here's a comparison between the VW T7 and VW T6:
- **Length (mm):**
- VW T7 Multivan: Approx. 4,973 mm
- VW T6: Approx. 4,904 mm
- **Width (mm):**
- VW T7 Multivan: Approx. 1,941 mm
- VW T6: Approx. 1,904 mm
- **Height (mm):**
- VW T7 Multivan: Approx. 1,907 mm
- VW T6: Approx. 1,990 mm
Certainly looks a narrower internal space.
That’s what I like about it, that’s it’s smaller and looking forward for it to come, not considering older ( and bigger) models. I want campervan after all, not a caravan
I think the value of our T6 DSG 204 4 motion just went up!
Good review ! But what about the heating ? Heat pump? And only when connected to the grid?
Good video guys, always interesting to see new ideas, some good, some bad and some slightly faffy and what might be coming to future vans.
At first look I was impressed - although it's a bit Marco Polo like - and there is lots of cool tech and gadgetry. On reflection I don't know how practical it would be. Those easily scratched black glass panels, the table stored under the bed, the narrower beds, lack of storage space, the loss of it's sub 5m status and probable price hike makes me think I'll wait and see on this.
I thought she said the concept was both wider and longer early in the video.
I enjoyed watching the Video. I expect most features will be available on the production model 😊
Thanks for watching!
Thank you for the review. I would love to buy one if they would sell them in the US.
I watched the top gear review of the new van, yours was much better, more personalised, geared toward a family and not a TV review. Keep up the good work.
Thank you that’s very kind. Tom is very good at what he does too!
When you turn those rear seat around you'll get a lovely view of the storage locker. We had a Jobl with the RIB bench and you could have reclined at any angle so maybe possible 🤞
Hmm I suspect you might be right there! 😭
Like it, but I think the new Ford Nugget is a good alternative, has hot and cold water as well compared to the T7. Don’t like the idea of losing the sliding table.
Yes that is a shame but perhaps it’ll reappear for the actual Van release?
I think the new nugget has improved the design of the car, took the advantages of the California, like the chairs on the tail gate and table on the door, added hot water and heated backseat, blinds.
I ❤ the new nugget. I own a California T5.1 and I like it.
But if I had to buy a new van I think I would go with the nugget.
The T7 is a vw mistake and it seems they continue with the plan of making the California based on this car.
Maybe decision makers should take a look at the history. The California has always been based on a van based vehicle not a car.
Has one of the designers ever went on a road-trip or camped for the weekend. I believe it’s changing more and more to a statement than a proper California vacation car!
Why is bed narrower than a t6.1 cali? That seems a huge step back? Or have I got muddled up?
Narrower and lower but longer base vehicle
You’re right, it just simply not as big.
I wouldn’t want it for that reason.
Great video but it would be helpful to know the dimensions. Also what are the dimensions of the beds? I think that too much storage has been removed and I would really miss the sliding internal table
We will be able to go a lot more in depth when we can borrow one. 😊
Bottom bed is 108 cm, top bed is 110cm. You loose 2 cm on the bottom one but 10 on the top one! (Compared to the T6)
Thanks for sharing definitely some innovative features. Obviously a pre-sale model but it looks very low to me and I can't imagine a pleasant ride on what looked to be low-profile wheels. As Ducato owner I frequently find myself looking on with envy at the Ocean's and drift off to an imaginary place where I surf the days away. Then, I remember my shower and loo and get on with my day. 🙂
I went from a Ducato 5 berth to a VW pop top and they were both excellent to own. As a 2nd vehicle the smaller one was better obviously but a week or fortnight away the larger vehicle was better.
What innovation there is nothing new that hasn’t already been done on T4 - T5
Are the back seats lower than in 6.1? I am 190 and in 6.1 I can barely sit comfortably and work on the folded table. 7 being shorter makes me wonder how taller people will feel inside.
On third Cali for work and play and I like this more than I thought I would, leccy parking brake for easy seat turning at last, split rear seat works for me and bike. Not bothered about gas as so many portable gas options but needs a bigger inverter to boil a kettle off grid. Improve the storage and needs a quick foldaway table inside. On EHU it would be handy if it subtly topped up the small drivetrain lithium after the leisure was full. I enjoyed GTE petrol hybrid for a while, so hoping that they will still have a petrol heater in this, and diesel heater in diesel options, if not I will hang on to the 6.1.
Love Harveys Red Arrows outfit
He’s obsessed with them
Wing Commander Harvey has a ring to it.
Have you guys checked out the Dacia Jogger sleep pack yet?
Will attract those who never had a California before. For the others, the loss of practical things (storage, inside table) will be more important.
Personally I don't think they have a patch on the Ford Nugget or The range from Jerba VW Campervans as they are basically just the same layout every year , its only my opinion 😊
This is not a Transporter (commercial van). Therefore the carrying capacity/towing on this unit may be less. I hope there is a commercial version of the VW/Ford commercial van with a California/Ocean camper van.
Any idea when you guys are reviewing En-suite to go?
Some good features but a few that would prevent me from purchasing.
Induction hob would be wasted with me so they would need to offer a double gas hob option.
Removing the internal sliding table for an external one is a deal breaker for me.
Another deal breaker is it’s height and width.
Personally I see the 6.1 becoming more valuable now
Totally love it that sitting position at the rear is awesome 👍
I just love it! It’s like a balcony!
Is there a ladder to go upstairs?
I love my t6.1 swamper but it's such a great use of space I could honestly say if I sold my swamper this would most definitely be a contender to adorn my driveway 🤟
Definitely innovative and very smart! Still think for the money it should have a scenic canvas to actually open fully.
I love the twin sliders, fancy drawers and rear facing seats 🤙
After having T5 campervan for 10 years I can safely say its unfortunately to small. It's only a little bit bigger than the size of micro campers like the Belingo. If you a 5ft tall couple with no kids it might be ok.
I like the concept - and hope they maintain the kitchen configuration. But, how much will this be…? 🤔
they induction stove prevents you from any real camping adventures. A two burner propane stove is a better alternative. Will they offer the van without a kitchen? VW had the Weekender model which had no kitchen. Instead there was extra bed width, less weight without the water and fuel tanks, ergo better milage. Double sliding doors - FANTASTIC-
Looks awesome with some fantastic ideas and concepts but it's just too small, there's enough daily re arranging in the current Cali so IMO this will be worse, double doors should be an option as for me they are a waste of internal storage space and weight. Good review. Cheers K.
I agree. Double doors may be good for folks in the UK or other places where the steering wheel in on the right but a waste of space.
It looks great but I’ll sticking with my 6.36m Fiat Ducato campervan for now. Thanks for sharing a great review.
Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts!
Thanks!
Thanks for sharing. Looks good but the table solution is a deal breaker. Think I will be waiting to see the California version of the new Transporter.
Thanks for watching!
I would use the California for sleeping only and would love to have the flexability of the ordinary T7 for every day use and then just the popup roof and folding chairs below. Something like the Beach version without the kitchen but with the flexibel interior of the ordinary multivan. Then my family would be able to use it to go by electric motor to and from work and everything else AND as a place to sleep when traveling.
would be better if there was a sun roof in pop up roof so when it is down you can still open the sun roof, Better with bench seat but keep the rest.
I think the bed in the roof might make a sunroof a bit pointless.
what i mean like the marco polo
@@ABusAndBeyond
the Mercedes marco polo has a sun roof and a bed
Very cool. ✌️
It looks similar to that Adria Active 1/2 a camper van offering a complete and utter let down compared to a conventional side kitchen layout and features.
Everything moves on however this might be a move to far? I would miss the inside table and the long wardrobe in my t6 …… do I need two doors? Lovely to look at but not for me. Wonder what the price will be might bring tears to your eyes 🥲 great review thanks
Nice and shiny! I’m sure VW will be able to market the California dream to plenty who have the money. The reality is - a weekend in that will see you at the chiropractor in no time. Sorry to be grumpy but the whole cali thing is becoming a bit of a joke to me! Loving your crafter build can’t wait to see more of that!! 👍❤
Lots of Crafter content to come!
It will be interested to see the Ford version as we not It's a transit now
Nice video, any idea how much?
They haven’t said yet. I suspect it’s going to be 80s/90s.
Cool !
I'm only interested because it's hybrid. Huge battery to stay out in the wild...
The hybrid battery won’t be used to power anything on board. The new van still keeps the leisure battery design of the t6.1
Honestly, they should change the name. So far none of the California campers have been importable to the USA. I would get one in a heartbeat if they were!
These won’t be in the US so I’ll stick with my Vanagon westy
love the design, but practically speaking, those double doors take too much from the storage, and there is not a lot of it for travelling with four people.
MB’s Marco Polo springs to mind, looks very premium materials but seems disjointed in its layout. That bottom bed is a faff😂
Agreed space and comfort is most important. The T6.1 bench seat I found is the best and most comfortable with wide under drawer and attached toolbox. I would prefer to see that as standard. The comfort mattress draped over those double seats is a big "no" for me. Give me a manually-operated roof as well.
Biggest issue is having to leave the vehicle to set up the table! Bad idea. Would also like to see a sizable solar panel on the roof.
No toilet!
Shame it has no Solar and 4 seats only with no hot water and you have to go outside to get a table. New Nugget has all aforementioned I believe with more space.
Thanks for a great review, Given that the wheels look like 19" can you advise if the T7 Cali comes with a spare wheel, also the storage lost under the T6.1 bench seat might be a problem. As with all campervan owners we have all plethora of stuff that goes with vanlife so do not want more cups, cutlery etc.
PS, your review on the Cali Coast back in 2021,convinced us to buy our Coast and we have been delighted with it.
All the best, Wee Jimmy
Clever appealing design but at the expense of storage space. Loss of indoor access to table not worth advantage separate rear seats
Is it just me or does this seem like the roof is a lot lower than earlier generations of T vans? Also it just looks way too small all round to be a camper I'd be interested in. Is the standard T7 van this small as well? Tradespeople are not going to like how small this thing is - or at least how small it looks in this video.
Ich sehe nirgendwo einen TV bzw Satellitenschüssel
Being from USA, still think it's rude of VW to call it the California and not sell it in the USA.
USA doesn’t have the only California in the world. Maybe it’s named after the town of California near Falkirk in Scotland?
@@atomic8468 Good to know there are other Californias. But is California Scotland known for it's palm trees, surfing and the phrase "California Dreaming"? All things that were part of the set for the concept show.
@@nicb8972 it’s know for its beautiful houses, the surf of the Firth and buckfast cocktails
The VW Bavaria really doesn’t have the same ring 😂
Looks too plush to me. My last camper was a T6 California which was good mix of comfort and utility and fairly robust. The T7 looks like a cocktail lounge on wheels and I bet it’s going to be close to £100,000 to buy new. It’s a shame but the way things are going I feel campervanning will be a rich persons pursuit. Happy camping!
It looks fantastic. But unfortunately I think the price will make it a fantasy.
It does look like it might be quite pricey!
What are people thinking the price is likely to be?
starting at £70k and prob heading up to something like £100k fully loaded..
I’d suspect 80/90k but no idea really. It all depends on what features end up on the forecourts!
The basic multivan hybrid is £60k. There doesn’t seem to be a wardrobe or as much cupboard/boot space as the T6.1. The height is an issue with the awning as well, with any slope for runoff you may only be able to stand near the door and not even there if you are 6’2” plus. Extra length equals more difficult to park. I expect start price to be 82k for Ocean spec.
@@ABusAndBeyond fingers crossed as that should help the value of my 6.1 Cali stay a little stronger! I wanted to hate it but I do like quite a few of the features, however I can’t help but think that it seems to have a fair amount less storage, the bed narrower and the lack of inside table.
The current Ocean is £74k so I’m thinking £76k before options.
I find it incredibly ironic that a camper that has the word "California" will not be available in California. WTF?
If I'm mistaken about this, my apologies. But this is my understanding -- that this model will not be imported to the US.
As long as there’s a non hybrid model with ICE only it will be a contender otherwise I will stop right there and not even look at the rest of it.
I hope Westfalia will keep Marco Polo unchanged. I think the designer of the new Cali has never done any roadtrip in the van 😔
👍👍👍
This is great news for us in Australia! Finally doors both sides, so it’s street legal for Auz. But we’ll probably still not get them due to the gas 😔 Would need the gas bottle to be only accessible from the outside.
A much valued feature of the T6.1 California was the opening window built into the right hand side sliding door and above the kitchen on the left hand side. I don't see these on this T7 Concept. Maybe that will make it to the production version? A manually operated roof is an option I would prefer along with a single width 2-seat bed.
No manual gearbox option is mental. I love changing gears and actually driving not sitting like a moron with a computer doing everything. Get a computer to empty the porta potti I hate that!
There hasn’t been a manual box available on the T6.1 Cali for a few years now, or did you miss that?
Too long. The compact size of the T6 is a major attribute, in my opinion.
I didn’t have any issues parking the Multivan when we borrowed it as sliding doors made it much more useable.
@@ABusAndBeyond According to my investigation, it's 400mm longer than the standard T6 - in other words, the same length as the lwb version. The standard T6 camper outsells its bigger brother by about 20:1, in my estimation. People don't want the extra length in their drives and don't want to stick out conspicuously from car parking spaces where the vehicle could easily be hit by passing traffic. It's also 40mm wider, which will hamper the navigation of narrow country roads, which is precisely where people tend to drive when on scenic holidays. It's use as a daily driver in urban environments will also be compromised by its greatly increased size Camper vans and motor homes are entirely different and are used in entirely different ways.
I had courtesy car T7 from vw and i was wery imprest.
Для такого класса машины 4 сидячих места ну никак не пойдёт ( минимум 5 нужно).
With no self contained toilet or sink, this would fail as a camper in New Zealand
A few cool features on this vehicle, but as a campervan I don't think it's particularly impressive. No bathroom, No hot water (?), No privacy area, Pretty small sink & fridge that are not very user friendly when you're standing up, Not much storage area for your luggage or things that don't fit in the cabinets, and that rear bed doesn't look very comfortable. On the other hand, if this vehicle meets your needs or fits your usage pattern then maybe it's good for you!
What your describing is a motorhomes, not a campervan. Plus it’s a quite a small platform. So realistically, it’s going to be extremely difficult to address all the wants you’ve outlined within a platform of this size. Maybe a Winnebago is what you need 👌🏻
Vw do you want to make a winning and success California?
1- Forget about using the T7. Looks horrible. It’s not a van. Dimensions are not ok for a California etc.
2- Create a bigger ID Buzz with the dimensions of a T6.1. A new transporter with the same look than the ID Buzz. And please create a nomal cockpit. Forget about these Tesla designs. ID looks awesome and transmits the spirit of the original Californias. Add petrol and hybrid options and you have it!
3- Use the same interior layout than a T6.1.
4 - Offer 2 options for the european market and the uk market and forget about the 2 sliding doors.
5- Add heated backseat like the new nugget
6- Add hot shower like the new nugget.
7 - Add as an option heated floor.
8- Create something new well isolated for pop top roof like the hymer venture s, that works on all climates.
Interesting ideas! Thanks for sharing!
I don’t understand how ideas 2 & 4 would benefit anyone. It would make the vans ultimately more expensive due to the multiple production lines and parts required to fulfill these requests.
@@stevemann6110 your are right. The thing here is that you cannot make a van that makes happy the european market and the uk market. As a California owner I honestly I don´t know what is happening in VW California's division because latest models such as Grand California or , this new T7 sucks. IMHO they should start working again with Westfalia.
Ford is doing things correctly. They have taken all the advantages from the California and incorporated them into the new Nugget.
Anyone who has really camped at least once will tell you that this isn't a successful model. It is too tiny to have a real comfort. Simply the roof in T7 and overall sizes are too small comparing to T6's. 1.8m person won't find it comfortable to live even a day in this car.
Looks great with all those bells and whistles but just not practical.
I am staying with my T6 forever until it becomes a relic.
I think it has less storage due to 2 sliding doors under the kitchen, no sliding table, no storage under the backseat, you cannot use the backseat as a couch, bed downstairs is narrower, only 1,08 m and so on. Worst California ever. And the T7 looks horrible!!
I totally agree.
I wish they focused on adding those missing things but keeping storage and the table, i.e. hot water option, proper inveter and solar option, get rid of Gas to improve storage space and use electric with more battery capacity onboard.
Yeah certainly lost a lot of storage space for sure. Not keen on the 2 separate seats at back and no storage drawer underneath. Probably would never use the other awning. Not all pitches would accommodate that width anyway. Not for us just now.
The problem I see adding these missing things are the dimensions of the base car. I knew from the beginning that the t7 is not a good car for a California.
Additional VW is trying to find a formula that works for both the UK and the european market and gaining market share specially in the Uk. The reason of sliding doors is that.
I tell you one thing if this model goes to production as shown in this video, don’t sell your T5.1,T6,T6.1. Prices of the classic models are going to sky rock.
T7 is the LONGGER VERSION...commercial trape !
shopping center town parking very difficult ...
More than just a concept, this van has more and has done more than that tiny T7 could hope for....... th-cam.com/video/fagf28lcMgE/w-d-xo.html
ps: our roof doesn't need electricity or strut replacements.
Looks too low and car like.... I still prefer the higher T6.1 Van shape
I'm guessing still not available in the US :(
The US are sadly the ones preventing it. VW would love to sell this there.
Wider car, smaller beds?!??
Longer car, less space for clothing?!??
No inside table anymore, no table in the sliding door?!??
Even more problematic, if both try to sleep 'downstairs',
with the T6 I find my spouse in the kitchen cupboards in the morning,
because there is not enough space.
That means a two-person camper, one sleeps upstairs, the other downstairs.
Better buy a Westfalia Kepler One, that's got even a proper toilet.
Dark material used on the inside seats, etc. for easy cleaning….my husband is a slob!
Lower, narrower and with less storage than the majority of existing conversions. Doesn't make sense. The California has always been an expensive option and now it both expensive and impractical.
Amazing new van!? Awesome ? Sorry guys absolutely nothing you can’t already do with an old T4 - T5. Even hybrid is a bad idea as you’ll have to fill up or recharge on any Tour more than a couple hundred miles. Why are you guys so obsessed with California’s ? There are so many more awesome features on custom T4 & 5’s California’s are sole-less, the total antipathy of the originals that captured the essence of free thinking, free minded open life on the road.
Meh….I’m too old school. For all its quirks I’ll keep my ‘74 rolling.
Why spend all that development time and your money when it’s not going to be able to be sold after 2030, won’t be able to go into future Zero Emission Zones and won’t meet new Euro7 standards coming soon? Full electric is only way to go now and buying anything else will just drop like a brick with depreciation as nobody will want them
Problem with BEV camper and is weight. That’s why they are struggling to get a ID Buzz California into production. Keeping it under 3.5t is almost 😅 impossible. Plus, as a former EV owner, doing long distance in one is a pain in the arse. I’d never do a trip to Spain or Italy in a BEV. You’d spend more time charging than anything. I’ll stick to my ICE camper 👌🏻
Oh no! Too fussy, too expensive and hate those rear seats and not enough floor to ceiling space. Way better buying a Ford or other variants for enough left to buy a new car!!
Looks like a very poor offering. That bed looks like a right faff
It looks like an ugly japanese mpv to me....
1.4?