Consort Reef or Nova? [Which is BEST]
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 23 มิ.ย. 2024
- Join us, Carol & Ken as we search for the best new campervan for us.
In this episode we visit Consort Motorhomes in Leeds and are given a tour of their factory by Scot, the owner.
We fell in love with their vans but are in a dilemma over which length of van to choose; the 6m Reef or 5.4m Nova?
Consort Motorhomes - consortmotorhomes.co.uk/
Video Link - Carol first time driving a bigger van: • How do we get on in a ...
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This episode was filmed 24th, 27th & 28th October 2023
#vanlife #lifeistooshort #littleredcamper #newcampervan #consortmotorhomes #consortreef #consortnova
Just want to say a big thanks to everyone for checking if you are still subscribed. We have gained over 300 subscribers since we asked you to check ❤️👍
Still subscribed, but notifications were TURNED OFF! Oh horrors! Don’t want to miss a thing.
I think you are Shadowbanned. Like many sites I go onto the likes are 240 plus 1 or 2. The read amount varies by the thousands dependant on podcaster popularity, AND that increases considerably whilst view. I did resubscribe too. I have to do that a lot recently as I'm aware of typical output frequency.
I think you'll go for a test drive and find gears smooth & easy and reinforcing a nice new van for springtime, you've enough to deal with as regards to adjusting site stop overs, different wildcamp opportunities and of course headheight, biggest drawback to where you pop into villages exhibitions etc. I am also impressed by Consort. Love and best wishes
Hi carol and ken another excellent video my opinion on consort campers is they look very professional I think the 6m van would be the better choice and I'd chose the fiat manual as the 2.3 multi jet engine is much better than the 2.2 in the Peugeot boxer I also think because you are driving a manual van at the moment it probably won't be an issue on the new van hope this helps you in your final decision and we wish you all the best in which ever choice you make good look😊
@@Blackhammer123 thanks for that 🙂🙏
Wait for the automatic. You’re going to keep this a while so worth waiting for perfection. We would suggest the 5.4m. No point getting what you don’t need. Parking is more difficult as you get longer and it will add weight too, which reduces MPG. You have everything you need in the 5.4m.
Fab video. Thanks for creating and sharing. ❤
Hi Carol & Ken, I must say I was impressed with Consort Motorhomes and I think the 6 metre van would make far more sense for you both as with only a difference in length of only 13 inches is minimal, but this would make the sleeping arrangements far more versatile especially for Ken who likes his little afternoon naps.
Regards
I was so impressed by Scot and Consort Motors. It's great to see someone so dedicated to their products and reminds me why independent businesses are usually so good at what they do. A brilliantly upbeat video for a gloomy Saturday morning, too.
100% I would go for the 6m. The difference in length may be slight but it would make a big difference internally. That bit of extra length on the beds would be worth it to me. I would prefer an automatic but it's not a deal breaker. I'd be happy with a manual and get out there and start the adventures. I'd also go for the thermal blinds. They probably wouldn't take much longer than the Remis blinds. I'd rather spend a minute longer putting them on and be warm!
Lot more room in that 6m lounge. We do like to be able to camp all year round 👍
I’d go for the longer van so you can stretch out and have a daytime nap without any faff. Being able to get up and leave your partner sleeping is a big plus as well as less hassle making up the beds. Coupled with 2 Duvalays you’d have beds made up in seconds. You also have the option of sleeping the other way around, personally I wouldn’t like to sleep with my head by the rear doors. Looking forward to seeing what you went for!
I feel the same about the doors. 👍
@@LifeistooshortCKI never think about the doors, once i am inside and locked up. Not a problem !
I sleep with my head at the rear door to be further from the fridge hum. 👌
@@gaeldejonge I hope you reverse into your parking space! I don’t like the idea of an impact from the rear or the draft.
Very nice vans! Personally I would wait for the automatic and go for the 6m as I really feel that little bit of extra space would make all the difference. Good luck with whatever you choose. ❤
I think they would regret not choosing an automatic 6-metre when they were already in the process of buying a bigger van to enjoy life with for years. They also have a camper van as it is, so I think the waiting time would be less of an issue than having a 5.4 meter manual and constantly be irritated about the gearing and lack of options in the sofa/bed area.
I had all the same reservations when I got my 6m van. The first thing I fitted was a rear view camera!
I have found that difficulties when parking are more often around height and width limitations, rather than length, but there are odd occasions where you just have to go elsewhere. It's part of the trade off for having a bit of extra space.
Looking forward to seeing what you go for...
We have a 6.6mtr converted 17 seater minibus and I don't regret it, we can have 2 singles or a double, at our age 68 and up it's easier using singles as it's easier getting to the loo at night, and double up if your cold. We are 9ft high so a problem sometimes, but you can usually find somewhere to park , yes it can take planning, we often find a traffic warden and they have been a tremendous help as they know what's on thier patch, and you can Google the area to look around, space wins out every time. Enjoy whatever you get. 😊
Defo the longer van.How often is the extra length really an issue in relation to the benefit in use all the time.I've had 8.5m Motorhomes now a shorter A class and rarely had any issues that could not have been overcome.
Hi Ken and Carol. The way that Christine and I look at it (as caravanners), the extra space in the longer van is an advantage ALL of the time, but a disadvange only on odd occasions, so that's the way we would go. Btw, we are still subscribed.
Thanks for checking 🙂👍
Tough one for you guys, If Carol is doing a fair chunk of the driving then wait it out for the auto putting a time limit on this. Otherwise take the plunge now on a manual & I'm sure Carol will adapt or Ken can just do the vast majority of the driving ( as you seem to do anyway). After having waited so long & been let down already on the other van I will confidently predict that you'll go for the manual now. No time like the present! Good luck!
Hi Carol & Ken… As I’ve mentioned previously our van is 6.3 long. In over years we have never entertained 6 people but do find that little extra bit of room suits us, besides when you have a Labrador who demands more space than us, 6 people will always take up less room anyway. But as you know well, every van is down to personal choice and I think I know which van you will go for, but I’ll keep my powder dry until we all find out. And finally my own personal thoughts are to just get on with your lives …. Best wishes M 👍🍻
Hi guys,
Great video, here’s my thoughts for what it’s worth.
I would without a shadow of a doubt wait for the automatic and go with the larger van. The benefits by far outweigh the negatives, harder to manoeuvre yes (slightly), harder to park yes (slighlty) but the benefits are massive, what a stunning looking vehicle and don’t underestimate the difference of being able to lay lengthways…..getting up in the night to pee etc!!!! 😂
Either way you’ll be getting a great van!
Kind regards
Tony
Thanks Tony 🙂
I can understand your dilemma! I guess you will buy the shorter model. Personally I think they are both lovely. Carol has already signed on the dotted line, so delivery will take place soon! Oh such excitement, cannot wait to see your first adventure! 🎊 😊
A superb van, definitely automatic and 5.4. It has everything you seem to need. Thank you for sharing. 🧡
Our pleasure! Thanks for your suggestion 👍
How exciting 😊
Can't wait, so excited for you both!
Delighted for you. So excited 🎉
Very impressed with Consort. Love that they take such care and thought into their vans for the end user. They say bigger is better, so i reckon the 6m is best suited to you two lovely people - better for stretching out and seating 2, 4 or 6 people much more comfortably. Shame about the automatic issue, but having it now as opposed to waiting indefinitely is perhaps a worthy trade off. Good luck in whatever you decide.
we love our Consort Reef, just brilliant vans and after sales service is fanatstic.
I was also happy to hear/see so early from you. In my opinion the choice is made by the sleeping space. I think that this is the most important thing. In the front you won‘t feel differences, maybe these few scaring minutes during parking because of the dimensions… but the relaxed and comfy 6-8 hours in the night would speak totally for the 6m dream. These are my thoughts. I hold my thumbs for your and your personal best fitting version. I‘m very excited to see the episode. Have a good time and thanks for all your content till now. Greetings from Germany, Martina.
Good points. We don’t like being kept hanging on hence the quick release 👍
Loved them both, so can’t wait to see what you have chosen!
Brilliant video well shot and vans look great
Very well thought out van, love the length
I am so pleased for you both, it was clearly a personal decision for you and it will be interesting to see what you went for. The 5.4 would obviously be a little easier to drive and park in marked bays, but a 6m would give you just that bit more space and sleeping options. The 6m van isnt that much more difficult to drive and with a rear camera fitted, it will be fine. If it were me, id wait for an automatic, but it is your choice and if you decided on a manual, im sure it will be fine for Carol. The build quality looks very good and similar to IH, Vantage and Murvi, in comparison to the many iff the shelf companies. Like many other subscribers who enjoy your travels, the wait to find out your choice will keep us on tenterhooks. 😊
Thanks for sharing your thoughts 🙂
Hello Carol & Ken great vid 😁
Beautiful van! Love the minimalist design and colors. Just lovely. You'll love it!
I am delighted that you have your new van. Every Blesssing, Fr D.
Wow, Carol was in two places at the same time there for a minute 😂😂😂 lovely layout with the rear lounge 😍
Love that new van and the space.
Great video and really professional set up 👌
Congratulations 🎉 ❤
We have an IH van but was really impressed with Consort through your video. As for length go for the 6m, we have one and being able to stretch out in the afernoon and drift off, is bliss.
Oh and thanks for another interesting video!
Without a doubt 6m gives more options for sleeping 👍
Glad to join you in your search.
Glad to have you along, Larry 🙂
Good Luck with the new van.
Wooo! Congratulations on the van! :)
Thank you!! 😊
Very impressive vans expertly demonstrated 👍
Thank you! 👍
Great to be able to walk around the factory and see the build process. Personally I’d go for the 6m manual and as you said ‘get on with life’ after all, ‘Life is to short’ 😜
Considering Ken’s back issues, I would lean towards the larger van giving him the ability to stretch out with more space. It also gives more space for entertaining. Can’t wait to see what you’ve decided.
Im so pleased for you both . Enjoy which ever you chose . Love watching youre adventures . so relaxing xx
Thanks so much! 😊
I would go for the 6m van as I think you will regret it if you don’t, but it’s ultimately your decision, great videos, keep them coming, blessings Tony.
We're so happy you have found a van. We're really looking forward to the next chapter with your new wheels. Hope you don't have too long to wait.
I hope so too! ☺️
Wow beautiful vans! Spoilt for choice 🎉 can’t wait to see what you bought. 😊
Very interesting. Well thought out van conversion. Can’t wait for the big reveal 😊
Not long to wait ☺️
Happy to see you considering a larger van. When we went from our Ram Promaster City to the Ram 1500 chassis, it made the world of difference. Especially noticeable was the easing of our back pain from being hunched over most of the time. Nice to see well thought out, quality vans. Very excited for you. Looking forward to your continuing adventures.
Yes, more space will be easier on our backs as we are not getting any younger 🙂
Really interesting video, I don’t envy your decision, but! You know when it’s the right one😊
Definitely manual and the 5.4 lovely van x. Good luck x
how exciting
Thanks for the vid, a very good open and honest view from all aspects. Your needs through to Consorts' approach. No hiding. Just what is needed. Thankyou
Love the Consort van's and love the reef! I'm very tempted myself!! :) Hope you get one!
Thanks. So love watching your channel, can’t wait to see what you decided on. 😊
Thanks so much for the SuperThanks ❤️
best of luck with yer new camper van
Congratulations on signing on the line for your new van! They look lovely build quality and looking forward to a video on handover day :) Both were great vans, as you are keeping Little Red, going for the 6m seems to make the most sense so you’ve got a day van for trips where you need to limbo and a more luxurious spread out van when you don’t. 😊
Thank you 😊
It was so lovely watching you both get excited re the van, my husband and I took possession of our new motorhome and we made sure it had everything we wanted and I am so glad we did because once you receive it the excitement wears off and anything missing would become an irritant, you still have your little red camper keep living life to the full but get everything you want in your van, whatever happens have a lovely Xmas and great next year with lots of adventures xxx
You have a lovely Christmas as well. We will certainly be adding what we want 😁👍
Great to see such a good recommendation for a Yorkshire firm!
We were very impressed. Thanks for watching 😀👍
Excellent how exciting looks fab. I would have to go for the automatic They seem
Like a good company well made etc. ❤
Nice .❤
Very impressed by all the Consort building at the factory and really interesting to watch. The longer van would seem to me to be the more appropriate choice...I look forward to finding out which you chose!
Another great one, I would go with 6m van and manual as you can have some certainty.
They look awesome... I'd go for the longer and wait for the auto
6m I think. Look lovely.
Hi think i would wait get exactly what you want and the new auto boxes are so smooth
I built my own van exactly as what your looking at with rear bench seats facing I eventually left it made up as a full bed it was a 6 mtr van two front swivels and a bench seat behind the drivers seat I found this to be a very versatile set up . Go with your heart x 👍💫
Good to know 👍
We have a 6m van and have never had a problem parking. So nice to have extra space inside.
My vote is for the 6m, just that extra bit of space, enjoyment and convenience. As for the automatic v manual - I’d probably prefer the automatic to reduce the workload when driving, but if it’s an infinite wait time, I’d do the manual and move on. Great video and Consort really seems like an excellent company. I want one for the USA!
Thanks for watching and commenting 🙂
That’s such a nice van! 😍
Oh, so exciting! I can’t wait to see what you have chosen. I wish Consort were available in the US!
Thanks!
Hi Martin thank you so much for the super thanks. We really appreciate it ❤️
Choices, choices.
As I put in my reply manual cheaper to run.
But cannot wait to see what you have got
Best regards Martin.
Great video I would go for the 6m thanks for sharing 😊
Excellent choice of van, and big welcome to the Consort family 🙂 As you know we have the Reef, the 6 metre one and we totally love it , Scot and his team are just brilliant and the build quality is just fantastic, as is the after sales service, your not just a number in a very long spreadsheet, you are part of the "family" . Lovely meeting you both at Consort last week and hopefully on our travels are paths will meet up again and have a Consort owners meeting 🙂 Take care both of you, Trev Debz and Tyler
We will be showing meeting you in a future video. We were watching your channel before we went up. Great to finally meet you 👍
Hi Carol and Ken, personally I'd wait for the automatic transmission. Great content, thanks for sharing.
Hankering after the Reef myself, we have a select 122 at present, which is a similar layout. Being able to sleep lengthways in the van so we’re not climbing over each other in the night is a big deal. I hate driving automatics, so can’t comment on that, but driving a 6M van holds no fears after just a little practice. Happy new van, whichever you choose.
Valid points 👍
Finding your videos really enjoyable keep up the great work. For me the 6m isn't much extra to handle and extra room is always good, I ended up with manual but would have preferred auto but the times we are in the Alps etc manual is definitely better. All of us are different though and you must do what is best for you guys.
Hello Carol and Ken
You have both been remarkable in lasting hundreds of miles in your little red camper it is now time for you to enjoy the comforts of a larger van we think you should go for the 6 metre the Consort build looks incredible. Good luck on your final choice and hope to see you soon on more adventures.
Sharon and Peter.
Thanks guys 🙂
Great video guys. We have a caravan and only started last year, having spent a while looking around to find one with a layout we like and within our budget - it's so easy to get swept along by your emotions and perhaps end up buying something that isn't quite right, only to to realise this shortly afterwards and then have to think about going through all the hassle that an upgrade might bring, so well done to you for really thinking it through and coming to a decision that in your hearts and heads is the right one for you. Here's wishing you all the best with your new van when it arrives.
Thank you. Hopefully our four years experience in the little red camper has given us an idea of what we are looking for ☺️ Have fun in your caravan 😀
Congratulations to you both. This is an amazing step and we don’t think you will ever look back. Having on board facilities is a game changer 🙂 Enjoy and have safe travels 🚐💙 Trev n Sue
Well you have been enjoying them for quite some time so we thought we would join the club 😁👍
You have waited this long, so i would wait for an auto. I have a 6.4 140bhp auto Adria twin slb, and I'm so glad i opted for it as i was in two minds when i got it. So glad i did.
We where a clumber park couple of weeks ago and what a lovely spot.
I’m so happy for you that a decision was made and you’ll be revealing all shortly. You’re right that it’s time to just get on with living the van life. Waiting for who knows how long for a van is time wasted. Congrats to you both. Mary
I’ve got the blinds yet I also use thermal inserts they fit in perfectly.
Hi guys, we have an Auto and find it so much less tiring on long journeys. Whatever you choose we hope you enjoy many years of enjoyment with your new van and look forward to seeing videos of you making the most of it. Geoff & Christine
Love your blog. 6 metre, fully automatic, with solar panels and reversing camera. We live in NZ are fully SC and freedom camp all the time in our Merzedes Sprinter. Downside - passing between shower room and galley. 36 pounds - WOW.
I’m sure you made the right decision for your travel needs. I am excited to see what you chose. Cheers, have a great weekend, stay safe
Thank you! You too!
What a fascinating and informative video. Consort is a very impressive firm.
Good luck and happy camping in whatever you choose.
Glad you enjoyed it.
Brilliant 🙂🙂🙂. Wouldn’t dream of telling you what to go for but I wouldn’t want to have to wait for a van again! As you know ‘Life is too short’ x
So true!
Lovely vans, personally I would go for the 5.4 metre van
6m van. Easy decision! Great video by the way, really inyeresting and well put together.
Thank you 🙏
Hello. Really interesting video ref van purchase. I would have the 5.4 with autobox. Easier to park and drive. Looks lovely. Pity it wasn't on vw or mercedes chassis but can't have it all. Consort looked really clean lines and quality, and roomy. Good luck, can't wait to see your outcome. Happy motoring. Best wishes David and Beverley Norfolk
Very nice it is too. I completely understand yur dilema re. the length. I would go for the 5.4 m version. I'm impressed with the workmanship.
The consort vans are brilliant, I would have the bigger more room to stretch out as Carol showed . And definitely an automatic 👍🏼 longer wait but worth it , you both have waited long time and as you both use van a lot it’s worth getting exactly what you want . Both of you deserve now a bit more comfort. Fingers crossed for you Carol and Ken .
Thanks for the suggestion 🙂👍
I would go for the smaller one easier to park
I would go for the extra space, for sure.
Very impressed with there campers. I liked the first one. 6m. Lovely lounge area.
We were very impressed with the spaciousness of the 6m Reef 🙂
I'd go for the longer van and wait for the automatic. As you say, the conversion time is reasonably quick. Get the van you really want. I'm not sure I've heard many people say they wish they had less room in their van.
That’s a valid point 🙂
Love watching your videos so informative. We don’t normally comment but felt needed to say hello after meeting you on the first day of the Consort open week. We have been waiting for 18 months for our 5.4 automatic(no fault of Consort all fiat delay) so great to see our van finally arrive and see it in the flesh and has now gone into production. The delay has allowed us to make some changes… from Kite to Nova,added diesel heater and aircon which weren’t originally an option so sometimes a wait can pay off!Looking forward to seeing which van you chose it doesn’t matter what anyone thinks it’s what’s right for you that matters learnt that from Scots wise words.We can’t wait to be part of the Consort family oh and thanks for our 2 second inclusion in your video!!😊
Good to meet you both. A wait can certainly help and how lucky are we that the other van fell through in time. Enjoy that automatic 😁👍
Great insight to your dilemma. I would go for 6m for more leasure space and thermal internal screen covers. We had Silver screens external cover on a motorhome we had and their great but if they get wet with rain or frost the have to be stored damp. Hope that helps. Can't wait to hear your decision as they look super vans 👍
Thanks for your thoughts. Good to know about the external screens as we have not used them before 🙂
Hi 6m manual you’ll soon get use to it! X
Hi Ken and Carol
We love our 6m Reef which we got three years ago and chose that model because we preferred the sleeping position, extra boot space, space for extra solar panels and fitted a larger fridge.
Scot and Jane have build a great company ethos at Consort where every member of staff is invested in delivering quality, service and customer satisfaction.
“Life is too short” 😊 so don’t wait for the Auto and go with your gut. Whichever van you choose, we know you won’t be disappointed.
Glad to hear you love your Reef after three years. That’s a good recommendation for Consort Motorhomes.
The truma 6DE we have in our Chausson is absolutely amazing. A must have I’d say both. The Consort campervans look fabulous ❤️👌🏽
Thanks for letting us know 🙂
These are great looking vans! Congratulations 👏 … whichever one you choose, it’s a win, win situation! (I bet you went for the longer one though).
wow now that is a choice i can see your dilema haha . im sure you will make the right choice and i look forward to seeing more adventures . i will miss the small van as that will be a chapter closing but it will be good to see you also in comfy camper van on new adventures
The Little red camper has been amazing and whoever gets it next will have a terrific van able to park anywhere. It will be fun learning how best to use the new one though 👍
We would go for the 6 metre it is surprising the difference it makes and go for the manual . very impressed with Consort . What ever your choice you will love
New drinking game - take a drink every time Ken or Carol says yeah 😂
Hehe, just being a wind-up. Love your channel and content!
Love that! 😂
Hello Carole & Ken, I would go for the longer van & seeing how I have no patience it would have to be the manual! Good luck with your choice can’t wait see which one you chose……..luv your videos!
Thanks for letting us know. All will be revealed soon 🙂