ไม่สามารถเล่นวิดีโอนี้
ขออภัยในความไม่สะดวก
Mini-Review | Recon Campers Envy | Family Pop-top Camper Van for Under $50k!
ฝัง
- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 23 ม.ค. 2019
- It's the only camper van that can fit in your garage and has enough 3-pt seat belts for your whole family AND does it all for less than $50k!
🔴 Subscribe to my channel here: www.youtube.co...
🔴 Go vote on my Community Tab for reviews and comparisons you want to see:
/ @ultramobility
🔴 Help support Ultramobility with a one time donation: www.paypal.me/...
🔴 Become one of the few and proud Ultramobility Patreon supporters:
/ ultramobility
🔴 See all the products that I use in my coach at my Amazon storefront: www.amazon.com...
🔴 More about this video
The Envy competes with a growing list of pop-top camper vans including: The brand new Tofino from Pleasureway; the Hymer Aktiv 1.0 and 2.0 Loft Editions and the recently introduced Axion Studio by Carado. Unlike all its competitors the Envy is built on the Nissan NV200 Compact Cargo Van. The NV200 is powered by a 2.0L 4 cylinder gas engine with a continuously variable transmission that's capable of delivering up to 131HP and 139 lbs-ft of torque. The Envy is the smallest of its competitors measuring just 15.5' in length - 2 whole feet shorter than even the very short Axion Studio; just a hair over 5.5' in width and amazingly just a few inches over 6' in height. These dimensions mean the Envy drives just like a mini-van and that short height means it will fit into your garage!
The Envy's pop-top is different from any of its competitors in that when it's up, you can push up the bed panel and the entire roof on the inside of the van is raised! That means that even if you're 6'5" you're going to be able to stand up in this van - anywhere - front to back. That's a huge advantage the Envy has over its competitors.
Down below you get one layout option which is very similar to the Tofino by Pleasure-Way. You've got your galley and storage along the driver's side, your lounge mid-section and storage in the back. There is no bathroom in the Envy although there is an exterior shower. If having a toilet is important to you then you'll need to buy a portable toilet. They're inexpensive and can be stowed in the rear storage area. The galley is equipped with a compressor refrigerator, a marine style sink and a 3 gallon water heater, standard and some pretty good counter prep space. There's no stove or microwave. You can purchase a portable, single burner propane stove or even a larger Coleman on your own if you like and that stove will stow nicely under the counter. The lounge has seating for 2 and take a look at that: another 2 3-pt seat belts! Along with the Aktiv Loft edition this is the only pop-top camper van here in North America that can accommodate 4 people in 3-pt seat belts! So that makes this camper van a true family camper van.
The conversion price starts at $28,500 and MSRP pricing for Nissan NV200 cargo vans are around $22k. So you can get into a brand new camper van that fits into your garage for just under $50k. That's got to be very appealing to many of you.
🔴 Recommended playlists:
Comparisons
/ @ultramobility
Buyer Advice & Guides
• 2018 Winnebago Revel v...
All Camper Van Reviews
• 2018 Pleasure-way Plat...
Camper Van Questions & Answers
• What is a Mercedes Mas...
360 Degree Videos
• (360 Video) 2018 Winne...
Under 21 Feet in Length Vans
• 2018 Roadtrek Zion SRT...
1.24.2019 3:02pm Update: From the CEO of Recon Campers regarding servicing: "Currently all small warranty items are handled at an RV dealer/ repair center near the client's home. We spent a lot of time designing our systems to they are very simple to repair, many like the control system, are plug and play so any RV center can fix things in a very short period of time. Anything major (like when a client forgot to close his pop top and drove into his garage) we might need to ship the van back to our facility (and driving your pop top into a garage open is not under warranty)."
1.24.2019 2:59pm Update: Stephen the CEO got back to me. The coach warranty is 2 years and covers any thing that Recon Campers built like the cabinets, etc. All other components carry their own warranties.
*A 1-time donation via PayPal is always appreciated!* www.paypal.me/ultramobility
Or a small monthly subscription goes a long way! www.patreon.com/ultramobility
Here's reviews of other pop-tops!
Axion Studio: th-cam.com/video/lIe1t4XhfR4/w-d-xo.html
Tofino: th-cam.com/video/8eRoWwSO3SE/w-d-xo.html
Aktiv Loft: th-cam.com/video/pmu9SmvZVkY/w-d-xo.html
Thank you for finally reviewing "a campervan for the rest of us", i.e., those of us with limited budgets who would love to explore the Great Outdoors as a single person or small family. I found the RECON site some time ago, and like you said, they convert your vehicle, are closed presently for orders, and they do not have any converted vans in stock for sale. This van is closer to the European Vans, like the VW CALIFRONIA VAN, that many wish was available in the U.S. In my quest for what I call a basic" motorized metal tent," I just recently discovered this Nissan dealer in the state of Washington that not only converts the vans but has a few in stock and ready for immediate sale! They are not as fancy as the RECONS (only two people, no rooftop tent, no fridge), but are very versatile with an easy to setup and take down modular configuration. Perfect for starting out and then modifying as you wish. Price is a big plus at $38,000. There are a few mods available for extra storage. I really like their product and am seriously looking at it. I do not want the six month wait of the RECON van that won't even be taking orders until ???? Check them out for comparison: www.caravanoutfitter.com/
So folks, Neil is providing a great service, so support his endeavor via patreon if you can.
wow very nice of you to share all that information r g and thank you so much for the shout out about Patreon!
I saw pictures online of the 'Ford Transit Custom Nugget Camper,' which the interior is designed by VW Westfalia. Better than the VW California I think (since it has a built in toilet) but, also NOT available in the US, and bit expensive (>$80K US).
We purchased our Freebird Nisssan NV200 camper from Caravan Outfitters about a year ago. We had made a deposit on a Recon, but the company kept delaying the production. We received a refund from recon, and flew out to Washington to purchase the Freebird. The Recon has more bells and whistles, but for about $20,000 less the Freebird suits us just fine.
I have traveled 40,000 miles in a year and a half in my nobuild Nissan NV (Baja, across Mexico, rhrough the southwest, to Alaska, across Canada, and back to California through the northern US.) It is a dream vehicle that can be serviced almost anywhere. Cost me 300 to outfit it. 28 miles a gallon.
Thanks for doing this mini-review. I THINK MORE AND MORE PEOPLE ARE REALIZING THAT THE BIG VANS ARE NOT WORTH THE MONEY. The little Dodge Caravans , Nissans, etc are going to win this race because they are so much cheaper and can double as daily drivers.
I think you're right and I think that's why we've seen 4 new pop-top camper vans show up on the market in the last year!
The smallest/lowest Promaster is a great in between option and Sportsmobile and Colorado Camper Vans will install tops and build interiors .
I'd like to see something like the Recon mod for a current generation Transit Connect.
Thanks for reviewing this fabulous minivan / mini cargo van conversion. The amount of detail in a five minute video is excellent!
Glad it was helpful!
When I win the LOTTO, I want this. Just the right size and amenities for me. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for the mini-review Neil!
The 5 year/100K warranty on the Nissan, along with ~26 mpg hwy is very appealing. Great for those who need an everyday driver that they can camp with.
Finally
Im lucky to own a Recon camper built. The quality is superb. They use quality material. I think you mentioned that it doesnt come with a stove. My built came with a butane stove. As per the toilet, I went to walmart and bought a folding toilet. it fits behind the drivers seat. Solid built nothing rattles or cabinets do not open by accident. They use stainless steel push button locks. I was undecided between the axion and recon was leaning towards the carado axion more because of more space but the deal breaker was quality of material and lack of insulation on the axion. To me insulation is the first priority. Then the rest of the stuff.
alex - thanks so much for sharing your ownership experience! very helpful. do you know what the warranty is and did Recon Campers give you advice on where you take you rig in to for servicing?
Ultramobility the warranty is for 2 years. Regarding if needing service Im close to Recon’s shop in Southern California. So I cannot answer if somebody needing service that is further away. Im sure the owner Stephen will take care of any issues that might come up.
yep he just wrote a detailed email to me answer this and other questions! thank you for helping out Alex.
I like this one a lot but plan on using it in Colorado. I'm a bit hesitant about taking it over those mountains. Thoughts?
Jonathan Lloyd the only time you would have a problem is if you have to accelerate quickly to get out of a situation the CVT doesnt respond. Its worry some. But I have being thru some mountains passes ( not in Colorado) without any issues im able to keep up with the speed limit or faster.
I love it! Thank you!
I read that they were working on a deal with Nissan to offer these right at the dealer in the spring, we'll have to wait and see. The gas mileage is also near 25 mph. I'd like to see Nissan offer AWD or 4x4 for off road boon docking. I would set up an outdoor shower tent with on demand hot water and make it a doubleheader with a Thor canister toilet on one side, shower on the other. I'm looking forward to the full review!
As a mom I love that you point out the 3 point seatbelts. This is why I’m leaning towards getting a class b instead of another class c. Thanks for what you do!
Great mini review Neil! What a cool little van with some great options for the money. I am definitely looking at Class B's as my entry level but this camper is impressive because if it's size, available options and price point. What a great find and I definitely want to see a full review, going to vote now.
I thought so too. major question about warranty and servicing but hopefully they'll provide that to me shortly!
They've absolutely got the right idea. As a Canadian, I'm keeping a close eye as their website promises to have a Canadian-ready version available in "late 2019".
it would be nice to see them eventually become a true coach manufacturer with showrooms and dealers but maybe the tesla route is the way to go as long as they can get servicing worked out.
That is a sharp van, I like all the options they offer. Too bad the front seats don’t swivel, and a spot for a cassette toilet would be nice.
There is a version inEurope with a cassette toilet , it can be done. Would add 12 v a/ c unit, under hood generator and it would do
A smart move would be a rear slide out that would become a bathroom and shower
Love your reviews. Please do a full review. I like the fact that this vehicle can fit in my garage and can use it as a 2nd car until I retire and can make use of a larger RV and spend weeks on the road.
So cool. I was seriously looking at this van as a choice for me and my teenage son, but opted for the Roadtrek Simplicity SRT instead. Thanks for your helpful reviews. (Love seeing you film around the Bay, btw!)
Welcome to the Ultramobile Lifestyle Camille!
A good move, but now Road trek is out of business. Still I see this as a primitive comfort void mini van . Sorry that is my opinion, a class b is a superior vehicle.
This is a great idea. I am looking at the possibility of retiring to a condo and a camper van that fits into the garage is a must for that lifestyle. This van has all the features I use now in my Roadtrek (except the toilet) but that is an easy adjustment as I can always opt to add a small moveable toilet as you suggest. I just want to be able to camp when I want and be comfortable. Extra sleeping loft is great for the grandkids!
For me this would be the perfect weekend getaway vehicle. Great gas’s mileage and size for a daily with the added benefits of cargo capacity and stand up roominess. Agree with Pepe that this would be a great addition to the Tofino if they could figure out the rigidity issues with extending the gap for the pop top. Thank you Neil.
yeah I want to talk to the CEO about overall crash testing and meeting DOT safety standards. it's a great point about the big hole in the roof and rigidity and safety! I've invited the CEO to come online and answer viewer questions here in the comments!
Thank you I appreciate your program . No toilet does hold me back. The reason for a camper for me is the toilet but the price is a positive.
100% with you on the toilet! one of the only reasons why I have my coach is for its bathroom. can't tell you have wonderful it is to always have my own toilet wherever I travel even if it's just to the store. I like using my own bathroom. however, I have been researching portable toilets and you know what? there are some really nice ones that stow away nicely and give you the convenience of having a cassette which you can empty anywhere and not just as a dump station. but, you still would have to sit out in the open inside the van and that's a bummer (pun intended!)
Agreed. A toilet and shower of some sort are worth far more to me than a fancy electric sofa or designer countertops. Keep it simple, and make it functional for those of us who do not always have a decent rwtroom or shower nearby to use, especially in the late evening/ early am.
Something really innovative would be a slide out that would open to a bathroom when parked.
Great idea...especially since (as we know) VW isn't bringing their "California" camper van to America.
Now...if Honda would make a "Pilot Camper Van" model: Not only would being set up like a camper (from the factory, like aforementioned VW is doing) give the Pilot more capability -- meaning more than just a people/cargo carrier -- but with the Pilot's excellent AWD system, you could go places/deal with inclement weather that might be difficult for a 2WD van (like this Nissan). I also like that it will fit into a garage or under most carports due to its more "normal" height.
Yes, you can get a tent specifically designed to attach to the pilot -- and even get an "Overlanding" type roof-rack/rooftop tent for it -- but tents are another topic.
Would be nice if Honda would produce a opp-up camper...but as seen here, making camper vans out of SUVs/service vans may continue to be only soemthign an owner or aftermarket company (like Recon Campers) will be doing.
-- BR
Hi Neil, I’m looking forward to your full review. 😄
You and me both!
Hi Neil, I am stumble to your channel while doing research to the Envy Recon camper.. great review. However, I didn’t see you mention about AC/heating system.
Why oh why won’t VW give us the California Ocean? It’s infuriating, there are dozens of companies trying to emulate that design, some people paying as much as 80K for a 30 year old refurbished VW Camper. But yet VW says it would never sell? The success of Recon is just more proof that people want a camper that can also be a daily driver that fits in your garage. I’d look into importing one but they are Diesel....not gonna happen. Just gonna have to wait for the ID Buzz!
Aren't the Ocean's like $50k+?
Skye Higa brand new? It’s impossible to know for sure since you can’t get one in North America , but if you did the euro conversion it would be in the 70K range. Seems like a lot I know, but consider the size, it could easily be your only vehicle and would fit in any parking space or garage. It’s shorter than most mini vans. It’s also AWD so can go pretty much anywhere in one. And VW now offers a six year bumper to bumper warranty. Of course none of this matters since we can’t get them ☹️
Ben Vernick yeah thats why they wont sell them here. The people who actually want the live in van lifestyle cant drop 70k for this lol. There wont be enough sales to justify sending it here
Skye Higa Who said anything about living in one? It’s too small for full timing. 70K is chump change for some people. It’s a mute point since we have to wait for the ID Buzz which we will hopefully get next year.
if we get them here in North America then who is going to buy these big junk RVs and Trailers which are expensive and only limited use for them.
As soon as you said the words “Nissan” and “CVT transmission” you lost me.
Really interesting. Perfect for city stealth camping--no one would even think it was a camper. I'd have to see the specs, fresh water tank, grey tank, etc. Being able to park it inside my garage would be great.
10g fresh water and 5 gallon grey capacities.
If i saw an Envy parked outside my house, I'd know someone was camping in it. The pop-top, shore power hook-ups, etc on a van even as small as the nv200 are givaways. Only the standard version (no windows) is truly stealth because it looks like a work van.
Great Mini Review! I like the size. To bad the front seats don't swivel. Using a laptop for movies, no problem. No potty, problem. How and where do you use it and store it? Maybe a mini review on potta potty options? Do I see an additional sun screen in your rv?
Keep up the good work!
funny enough I have been researching port-potties. lots of em! maybe a mini-review of porta potties is in order!
Dude for 50 grand go buy a class C
@@garyvallone5393I don't know of a 50k C class. C class can be quite comfy but... A C class will not fit in a garage, a normal parking space, or allow you to steath camp. But thanks for the input!
@@ManuelHernandez-bg8bl this is true but it just seems like a pretty low value buy. It's a cool rig which is why I watched the video but 50 thousand dollars for a vehicle with a junk cvt transmission is way too much. I guess this is a good vehicle for a rich millennial that dosent know any better is why they are selling
@@garyvallone5393 Is there any comfort in knowing I'm not gonna buy one? It's good to know what's out there. I bought an RV from Midwest Automotive Designs on a sprinter chassis. Much bigger and it has a bathroom. Keep watching these videos from Neil from Ultramobility and I'm sure you'll find something that fits your criteria.
Hi-My thoughts on this Recon. It's not about price, but more about what I call "micro camper" segment. This is smaller than the traditional RV motorhome or travel trailer. That is what it is and should be about about. Not $$$, because a couple or family could easily purchase any pre-owned class C rv for the same $ as this rig when looking at models 2-3 years old and up to 20K miles on the odometer, that sold for $70-80K originally. These are much more comfortable and more feature rich. So again, anyone that chooses the recon is really choosing it for the size.
Benefits:
* 15' long.
* easy to drive, and park anywhere.
* no need to tow a 2nd car like so many RVers need to do because their rigs are 30 to 40' long, and need a car for day trips into town and such...
* wont kill you on the fuel bill if you intend lots of high mileage driving
* you want to travel stealthy
Drawbacks
* it is small and space is very limited
* no bathroom/inside shower. even using a soldiers bath with a wash cloth & bucket will not be pleasant
* $50K price. Any late model pre-owned class c rv with low mileage starting at 22' long easily competes with this rig and offers far more space, comfort and features.
Conclusion:
The motivation for purchasing the recon has to be based on it's "micro-sized" platform. Which allows for a single use vehicle. Hell if you don't commute to work with a car, you could probably get away with this as your only vehicle.
That is what you are buying as far as I can tell.
Interesting to see if there is enough demand for something like this.
There are several shortcomings. First they have limited availability. Two they have a communications problem. Last if you load it up , you are very close to the price of a far better equipped class b. I would osss in this and look for a low mileage WinneRialta , restore and upgrade it for less than the Recon. You would then have 20 plus mpg on highway, a generator , ac, microwave, heat , a/c , bath and shower. The Rialta was the best designed class b ever made
Looking fwd to your full review of Recon camper van
I’d love to see a full review and a head-to-head with the Tofino. Alas, I can’t seem to vote on your community page with my iPad. I really like the idea of these small, low-profile pop-top camper vans. I’ve tent camped and had a teardrop camper in the past, so the lack of a toilet is a non-issue. But I’m pretty much had it with towing and fussing with a trailer. I want a stealthy van I can occasionally drive to work AND park by my condo without the condo association having a fit 🤣
I already have a class B, this is my "weekender" camper for short trips. My Class B is for extended stays :p
I love this channel. You are doing the work my brain refuses to do. Thank you.
you're more than welcome. thank you for saying that!
Hi Neil, I just saw the prototype at the Tampa RV show if the Roadtrek Haven...VERY nice rig for sure. Can't wait for your review. It is very high end looking with great amenities.
The build is very high-end...the car, itself, is very low-end.
@@taradead the Ford Transit is not low end. You do realize I am not talking about the vehicle in this review right?
oops, my bad. The transit connect is a nice car...the nv200 is not.
I HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR YOU TO REVIEW THIS VAN. It is my favorite of the pop tops. Perfect for my needs as a business traveler. Please do a full review. I saw a video done by the owners where they stated that these vans would be available in 2019 from Nissan dealerships. Do you know if that is still in the plans?
there may be some announcement forthcoming out of the Chicago Auto Show coming up! Stay tuned!
Sportsmobile will make same floorplan using Transit , Promaster and Sprinter Van's. The Transit will fit in a garage . The Promaster may fit depending on door height . GTRV is now making camper vans based on the Mercedes Metris chassis . Thanks for the video.
Not really comparable considering those vans are twice as big as the nv200.
@@taradead What you say is correct but , the video states that the Recon is the only company making that floorplan which is simply the old Westphalia floorplan . Sportsmobile and GTRV make the same floorplan . I merely gave other options. The Metris in nearly as small as the NV .
@@stanw909 , Actually the Mercedes Metris is more on the size of the traditional mini van. The Metris is 202 in. long. The Toyota Sienna is 200 in. long. The Nissan NV 200 is 186 inches including the rear bumper. Quite a bit smaller than the Metris.
If they would only do swivel seats on the font, I'd buy one today. But they are very stubborn about it.
the chassis has thorax airbags in the seats...
I looked it up, and could not figure out why it could not swivel. It just needs to be pointed forward when you are driving so the "bags" are in the right place.
Another cool mention about this van is the upholstered seats in a waterproof material similar to what scuba gear is made from. I believe the supplier is in Hawaii.
Are these available at dealers yet? South Texas here. This is what I want. Not a big ol gas guzzling rv. And I will have two passengers but probably not with me when I travel out of town only on city trips mostly. That backseat is sweet.
nope not yet. I hope they announce something at the Chicago auto show happening next week.
A smart move would be a fiberglass slide out off the back with a flip down floor , working with the doors to make an enclosed shower and a cassette toilet .This would make the package complete. The other option would be a lightweight towable bathroom shower that be be attached when parked.Should also have an Induction cook top, and small microwave. How about heat and a/c ? How long can dash unit be used, or can batteries power a small electric heater? Could lithium batteries power a 12v ax unit , with reversible heat pump.
Love to know what production time is like now and if available through Nissan dealerships. Thank you for a great review!
Love it! Just wish they had heating system and a small bathroom like the kelper one! Other than that love it. Maybe in the future they can have something like that on a different model. As always good job on the review!
I've been on the waiting list for this camper van for over a year, maybe even over a year and a half. In that time I've considered so many other options. Obsessively watching videos. I've looked at those short body Promaster builds. They are nice. BUT I keep coming back to this one. My purpose is to navigate L.A. traffic (I have a diabetic dog who needs an insulin shot every 12 hours, and that puts a dent into any dinner or going out plans across town unless she is with me. Hence, the comfy camper van with fridge--a $50K dog house...) as well as (stealth) camping. This one fits the bill as it is small enough to park in places like Venice, and fit into shady carports and parking garages. My build will start April 2019...available in June??? maybe...
The goal of Recon Campers is to sell these through Nissan Dealerships. They may be available at the dealerships before my build is. Sigh. But it's great to know that these camper builds are road safe enough to purchase (or finance) through a car dealership.
So looking forward to turning heads with this thing.
Still not available. Nissan dealers don’t even know about them
Hi Anana. Is it being built yet? I'm on the list as of July and looks like a 10 month wait list.
My build date was last May . Now it’s September and they haven’t started yet.
@@kennethlee7474 Not much of news these days from Recon. My guess is they are busy with setting shop in Michigan to better fulfill demand and future orders. I'm hoping we can buy car and conversion all in one package. That said, I'll wait patiently.
Sung Lee they finally got my van delivered to Michigan from Mexico. But they said they are 6 weeks behind production so idk when my finished camper will arrive Sacramento dealer. Maybe middle of October or November. I started out June 2018. And buying from dealer direct? I don’t think it’ll happen anytime soon because they have to finish their contracted orders from their customers first. Be very very patient. It’ll be worth it. I’ve been researching small van campers for a long time and nobody can beat this recon campers.
I'm not EVER going to spend over $50,000 on a camper van so Recon is the best choice so far. I'm on the east coast so I'll never see one b4 buying, Concerning. I'll watch videos till I'm ready to buy. Good review👍
thanks for sharing your thoughts @A Person
Nice review. Recognized the parking location at The Circle in Berkeley. :) Great location as is Indian Rock.
FULL REVIEW FULL REVIEW FULL REVIEW!!!
It would seem more usable to have the front seat with a table back on the driver's side and a swivel seat on the passenger side, if the table seat was mounted on a swivel plate the table could be rotated 90 degrees to sit sideways if it had enough space to do so.
I had an ex telecom van with a 1 gallon cylinder in the engine compartment you fill with water, it was wrapped in copper tubing plumbed into the cooling system, so the engine heated the water while you drive along.
Can you imagine if they used a Toyota Hiace or proace van? They would sell a lot of them.
INTERESTING! I will put this on my favorite camper vans list. I am waiting to see within this year or next if there will be other short length camper vans coming out. I saw pictures online of the 'Ford Transit Custom Nugget Camper' and I like that too, (designed by VW Westfalia) but that is not avail in the US, only in Europe.
This is an interesting alternative to a more expensive van, and it can haul and sleep four . Probably my favorite feature is the ability to park it in a regular garage . Coachman is doing some interesting things with their Galleria , even introducing a 12v air conditioner this year .
I love the size. like what appears to be a good fit and finish and like that it addresses some challenges that I see on models like the Tofino.
I may have changed my mind on this . With some custom options it could challenge a much more expensive class b. First a module that slides out and when parked could be an enclosed bathroom. Solar panels and a small generator to power a small microwave , coffee maker and tv . WiFi booster. Question can you run the motor overnight if you need heat or a/c. If not you could use an ac access to campground 110 to power heat or ac like what is done in small trailers
Any new updates on available recon campers?
Nice review, ReconCampers has not been updating new posts on their Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or even their own website! Makes me wonder if they are still in business. GTRV.com does a similar NV200 conversion if Recon dosent step up their game.
Hey Neil - love the channel. I'd be interested in a more in depth review and/or a comparison between the RECON and the GTRV Westy
The classic VW campervan layout is great...I only wish they could do the conversion on a different chassis.
Is this camper van available in Ontario, Canada? I spoke to a local Nissan salesperson and he had no knowledge of this van.
If you're willing to go a bit smaller, check Mars 5 (Quebec) who do pop tops on Dodge Caravans! The model I've been looking at is called Illusion. It has the pop-top but I don't think there's a bed in it. It has a built-in propane stove in the counter, but the countertop looks quite a bit shorter than in the Envy.
I think the outside measurements will be comparable, possibly shorter headroom (compared to when the Envy pop top is down- I'm trying to find out about that).
You might be able to find a used one at a good price.
Wow, this is amazing! A few things:
First of all I want to say thank you for including information in the description box which is often lacking on TH-cam channels! Well done!
I can't believe I've been binging for about two months now on TH-cam videos about vehicles for camping and long-term camping and never came across these vehicles. I had been considering the standard Nissan NV.
I was curious what the headspace is when the pop top is down?
Thanks in advance, and thanks for this video!
Thanks for the video. Intrigued by these camper vans. Wish we has the Ford Transit "Nugget" here in the US.
Thanks for watching!
Are these still for sale in the US? Seems to make up for a some of the shortcomings of the PW Tofino. Great mini review - thank you!
Big fan of Recon. Better rear seating than the Tofino with 3pt seat belt AND integrated headrest. More comfortable rear seating compared to the Hummer Aktiv. The rear shower is pretty unique but it’s driven off the alternator or some such so you get “free” hot water as you drive, but curious how fast it heats up (and if engine is required to be running) after you use up the initial tank of hot water. Finally I have looked at the layout over and over again and just can’t see where you might put a porta potty while in “sleep” configuration, would love to get your take.
Alex - thanks so much for sharing your experience with the Envy. i'd have to have the dimensions of all the cabinets. it might be possible to stow it in a cabinet by breaking the porta-potty down into two pieces: the cassette and the toilet part.
Alex, You're right about the porta-potty. You could store it with the bed in the couch position but when the bed is unfolded there is just no room. So every time during the night when you "had to go", you would have to fold up the bed and then unfold it when you're done with "your business."
@@RicardoRoams Yeah I was thinking maybe with the front passenger seat folding flat that could work but doesn't look like there's enough headroom.
I had the same question. I'm thinking of using a tent just outside of the car with the porta potty, like an outhouse; winter visits will suck. :-)
I like the size of this camper van, and Recon's interior design and fittings look great, but its engine and CVT transmission are a big question mark for long-term durability. Nissan has acquired a poor reputation for its transmission (while other manufacturers have been making continuous improvements in their CVTs), and its engine is very weak, especially considering that much of the western U.S. is mountainous and over 3,500' elevation, while lugging the hundreds of pounds of added interior fittings.
Im a little confused on why you have a video of you sitting in the van showing just images of what the van looks like.
Hmm. It looks like you are sitting in the van but you must be just using a green screen or else you would have noticed that you cannot stand up in the rear with the pop toped. Right? Look at the angle of the ceiling once popped... much lower in the back, yes?
Great review, Neil! I would LOVE to see a full review of this camper. THANKS!
Can you do review on 2018 Roadtrek CS XL with full E-trek options and undermount AC ?
That’s more like the VW Westy than any other ... great idea and they will sell every one they make due to the price point !! Great
Glad you like it!
Not really...vw is much higher quality than nissan vans.
Neil, Thank you again for a great review!!!
Too bad they don't make one for Transit Connect and Promaster City.
Today models under 17.5 camper van- what would you recommend. Max height 17’1/2 so it can get into my garage
Like this layout, but it does not look well make. How is this van compare with VM California Ocean? guess should not compare since California ocean is not for sale in the US.
Finally a proper European pop top van for the US! It’s odd that the builder didn’t opt for the swiveling passenger seat. I’m pretty sure Sussex Camper Vans use the model with the swiveling seat.
i'll have to ask their CEO about that decision. will report back when I hear!
Perhaps there are import issues with that particular chassis...
there may not be enough headroom to accommodate the swiveling mechanism. that does add about 9 inches or so to the height of the seat. maybe without the extended height a person wouldn't have enough head room. just a thought...
If you get time take a look at Sussex Campervans here on TH-cam. They build on this chassis.
Recon says it's not legal in the US.
Is there an update on Recon Campers? I think they have the best options for the money, but a video from almost 2 years ago stated that we would be able to go to a local Nissan dealership to see these and buy them, but I have heard nothing about that since - and no info about these on Nissan’s website. Wondering if their deal fell through? (Also, side note: I cannot believe that a car manufacturer in America has not yet offered small (and affordable) camper vans like this for sale yet. It completely baffles me: With all of the gorgeous national parks to travel to and the many families who want camper vans - just look at the number of comments in these videos to see just how many people want these. Some might even trade in their minivans and SUV’s for small camper vans like the Recon. Such a missed opportunity. Ok, done with my rant now. 😂)
One thing I always miss in your reviews is how you would use a particular camper van. For example this van, because of its limited power, is limited to RV parks with shore power. The compressor fridge would kill the battery in a short time. However it could also be used for taking the kids somewhere for the day and have a place for meal and a nap. I do enjoy your insight into the world of RVs, keep up the good work.
Joe that is a great idea. I'll start to incorporating this into my full reviews... maybe even my mini-reviews. I try to only give the basics in the mini-reviews and leave out as much commentary as possible but perhaps it would be valuable in the mini-reviews too. thanks for sharing this excellent idea!
I haven't looked into Recon's specific specs, but a very similar van I rented in Europe had no solar at all, just a second alternator to recharge the battery. I drove one for 25 days and only plugged into shore power once. I ended up hating the RV parks and just found wild camping spots each night. The longest I stayed parked in one spot without turning on the engine at all was 48 hours and the battery was still doing just fine - but usually I was running into the store, or exploring a nearby attraction and driving to/from my campsites enough that it was never even a thought that I had to conserve battery.
Erica I love that you've shared your actual experience using one of these! it's so helpful. thank you so much for sharing. it sounds like the van met all your need!
Joe, our current battery will run the compressor based fridge on a warm 75 to 80 degree day for around 40 hours. We worked with the fridge manufacture to get an extremely efficent fridge around 15% more efficent for our build and space. As an ex battery engineer (actually ex director of manufacting and engineering of a lithuim ion battery company) we spent a lot of time making these vans 100% off grid. Most of our clients have never stayed a night with 110 power. Also the vans have a 150 amp alternator which fills up any power you use in a very short time drive (15 to 20 minutes a day). We also offer a fixed 115 watt solar panel or portable 100 watt panel if you want to just park the van for a month and run the fridge, lights etc. If you have more technical battery or power balance questions feel free to jump over to our website reconcampers.com and send us an email. We are more than happy to share.
A CVT? Didn't most of their cvt sedan models cause Nissan problems and and get a bad rep with long-term reliability issues? I wonder if they fixed them now. Any way, good review though.
I want that paint job of the mountains and trees! Where can I find that?
I'd liked to know too. And how many graphics options there are
Thanks for the video and great information, just subscribed.
Hey Ultramobility! Great video. I'm curious - did you actually get to test the comfort of the top vs. the bottom bed options? Is either one comparable to a real mattress for longer-term road tripping? Thanks!
Apparently, due to the Nissan NV 200 no longer being imported , Recon Campers appears to be out of business
that’s unfortunate. thanks for the update.
very thorough review- thanks
Hello Neil- do you have any updated information about about the Hymer/Roadtrek collapse ? I'm presuming it would not be prudent to consider any Hymer product purchase at this time or perhaps ever again. Mal Harling
a 2017 Recon their demo model sold for 70k on Ebay I think last month started at 60k.
Geeez. You could get a nice full sized camper for that.
@@04dram04 True, I just sold my 87 VW Westfalia for 45k it was completely redone The buyer did not blink once at the price when he saw what he was getting. I now have a 2091 Mercedes Sprinter it is like my old van on steroids. 4wd very happy so far.
I heard that it’s very expensive or difficult to find servicing for ripped off pop top. Is that right? Is this true for any pop-top camper?
Brand new price point for the USA. Nice.
I 'm Not Feeling Too Comfortable With This Idea. I Like The Size But The Serviceability Is A Bit Shaky To Me! As Always You Present A Quality Review! Thank You!
why many thanks jodeluna62!
Wayfarer Vans is another to review!
Nice car
is there AC for when you sleep inside at night on a hot day?
Could you do a story on the Erwin Hymer North scandal and future of RoadTrek? Sounds like a very big deal. I have put my plans on a Aktiv purchase this week on hold due to this breaking news.
Great review! thanks-focus on camping features rather than routine driving features would be nice for another video.
Noted!
I heard you could buy the recon camper directly from select Nissan dealers. Sounds like demand was so high that they needed to stop current production. I wish the Tofino had the 3 panel bed that would open up the cabin.
They say they haven't gotten their deal with Nissan up and running yet unfortunately. It's a big question for me. Roadtrek tried it years ago with their Nissan pop-top and didn't succeed. Part of the problem is that Nissan dealers don't understanding RVing and the RVing lifestyle buyer.
@@Ultramobility They were supposed to have production in Detroit by now but sounds like that fell thru.
You are correct. However way back when, the Toyota Chinook poptop was sold at Toyota dealers in the 70's
Agree would be a great addition to the Tofino.
how much does it cost, how is the purchase process? I live in Indonesia.
Who made your mountain graphic on the side sir?
Thank you for another review.
Hi, what is the make and model of the bike rack that would fit a Nissan NV200 with a tailgate? Thanks
I hear they will start a production facility in Michigan, true?
Yes that’s true
Wow I like the pop up vans are coming back. Do you see the Ford Transit van will do a pop up?
I saw a link to the little transit and I liked what I saw! I think a viewer posted a auto mag article on it in the comments below...
With a heavy duty alternator, can you run the dash ac and heat when parked overnight?if so rear vents would make it more comfortable.
not sure. could disturb others
everything looks awesome on this rig except for one major problem. Nissan's notoriously terrible cvt. someone please tell me that the transmission is not a big piece of sh@#.
These vans are fine on the freeway...if you dont mind going a max of 60 mph. They really struggle on even the slightest hills. As far as longevity, there are reports of these cvt lasting very long...IF mantained properly (fluid change every 30k miles) and the engine isn't pushed too hard (don't let your children drive it).
nissan cvt is a piece of st
david ackerman was wondering if someone was gonna mention this! This is what many people don’t realize about Nissans cvt transmissions- they are complete garbage. Doesn’t matter if it’s in the Versa, Sentra, Nv200 or whatever, it is a well known problem, and people need to realize this before buying one. Doesn’t matter if you baby it, it’s a very common problem, which is why I would never buy one. I’d rather get the Ford.
@@calihiker7980 I was just going off reports from people who own them. Not all reports from longtime cvt owners are positive, but, to be fair, none of the negative reviews say whether the car was used when they bought it, how it was cared for, etc. Please elaborate on your experience...because your vague post reads like the perpetuation of a rumor.
taradead It wouldn’t necessarily matter if the vehicle was used or not. On the majority of modern vehicles transmission fluid and filters are required to be changed anywhere from every 40k-100k. From research across the web on Nissans cvt transmissions this is not an uncommon issue for them to suffer premature failure. If a automatic transmission is known to fail as early as 40k miles and is a $5000-6000 repair it’s not something I would want to risk when there are better options on the market.
I have owned 2 Nissans in the last 15 yrs. one was a 2004 Nissan Titan, which obviously didn’t have a cvt transmission, while the other is a 2007 versa SL. Bought both new, although I no longer have the Titan. I do still have the Versa, and with about 100k miles in 12 yrs it was going fine until recently when I noticed the automatic transmission was starting to sometimes struggle to shift. Yes, the car is 12 yrs old, but it’s been properly taken car of its whole life, and with only 100k miles the transmission appears to be dying.
The 2007 Versa was one of the first vehicles Nissan produced in the US with a cvt transmission, and since then these transmissions have been infamous for failing with relatively low mileage. It’s not just a couple of reports sprinkled around the internet, it’s been years of failures and mechanics reporting what they have seen and dealt with.
I like the car but i don't get why they made the width that small
And Cascade Campers
There is little to no information about this product and I'm not sure why?
6months start to finish!!! 6 months of payments on a van you cant drive! They need to always have ONE van ready to buy, someone will buy it with no wait. DLM Distribution has ready transit connects in Minnesota ready to go, I'd check them. GTRV.COM does NV200 but still a wait and buy at dealer then convert. To much hassle.