Nice to see a review of Vantage quality especially as an owner. We redesigned the rear bench so that we could access the garage fully from within the lounge opting not to have that rabbit hatch :-) You can do these things when its built to your needs and not on a production line thousands of miles away. The fridge may look small but its a Tardis and the van worked perfectly in the Alps for Christmas and New Year. We love it.
wevegonetouring we had a very large fridge in a Carthago C line, but we can fit more in the vantage one😱 in fact we love our Vantage that we have the Neo in the UK and bought a Sol for home here in NZ. Very solid.
Hi Andrew, great info again thanks. We have a Vantage Sol (Same rear lounge layout as the Neo). Absolutely no problems with bedding or other storage as stated below. We love the layout and travel in the north of Scotland in winter quite comfortably. The only compromise is if you use the bedding layout as a double bed (which we do) means that you have to make up and unmake the bed every evening / morning so you have to be reasonably fit and organised to crawl about to do that. The five / ten minutes every day is well worth it however for the comfort of the rear lounge for the rest of the time. However believe it or not we have been most impressed by the very efficient marine / compressor fridge. It holds five days worth of fresh food easily and there is enough room in the ice compartment for a few days worth of ice for the Isle of Harris gin ;> It has been designed by real users, that is obvious... a great product. By the way no problems at all with the shower tray over the three years we have owned the Van, this is a definite red herring and I would not even consider it issue or a concern in the newer Vantage vans.
Don’t mess about with duvets, get 2 decent sleeping bags that can (if you want to) join together, roll them up into stuff sacks when finished and they don’t take up as much room as a big duvet, that’s what we do in our van 😃👍🏻
So I got a kitchen fitted 12 years ago and I am jumping with joy because it is the exact same colour cupboards! So no need for me to upgrade! Bedding is always a problem. I keep the duvalay in the awning but no idea on this. Continental thin bedding with high togs maybe the answer. It did hold my attention though as a beautiful conversion. The tap is a no- no as water drips back down the shower hose and rusts the the thing to bits! Having said that. I WANT ONE! Thanks for lighting up my Sunday night! ❤️❤️❤️👌👌👌
It's great to see you and Dougal back doing your reviews. You have a great attention to detail and know what us vehicle users find useful. Honest and unbiased as ever. Stay safe! Michelle.
We have owned a Vantage Neo since 2014. It is a fantastic van with superb build quality and works even better in practice than we imagined - just so practical with loads of storage. As far as bedding is concerned under the seat we have four pillows, two single duvets, two single Duvalay toppers, an extra thin blanket and in winter a very large thick blanket that we hang between the cab and living space to assist with heating. In addition we also carry under there a small oil filled heater and a bag for dirty laundry plus a second set of covers for the bedding. Absolutely amazing what you can get in there.
Very comprehensive and fair video Andrew. We have a Sol (6m) but very similar in most respects and we're very pleased with it. I agree with the comments about a drop-down basin - that would make showering easier. Regarding storage: we can fit our two toppers, duvets and pillows in the locker (just). They certainly are well made vans and Vantage are great at after sales service.
We have had our NEO for about 18 months and love it. We downsized from an A class and were concerned about storage but it hasn't been an issue at all as the NEO has plenty! We store 2 single duvets, 6 pillows and a rotary dryer in the under seat locker. We leave our toppers on the seats covered with throws during the day. They would fit in the locker of we took out the airer. The washroom works for us and I don't really see the point of a folding sink - it would only be something else to go wrong! Understand your point about the shower tray but if you look at the quality of the sealing to the walls, I think it will be many years before it becomes an issue. We really like the galley area and the worktop extensions. Good review Andrew as it really does get across the build quality..
I enjoyed the video with the wide angle lens portion, it really helps to get a feeling for the layout and the space and put the details you show later into context! 👍
Wow. This is a really great looking van conversion. It even sounds good (soft closing doors etc.). Rear lounges are getting more popular in Germany on B class motorhomes. Hopefully that will lead to similar layouts in van conversions, also. What I liked especially in this van is that there even is a garage (which sometimes isn't with rear lounges). And I've never seen a van conversion where the swivel console(?) under the front seats is not kept as it is in a transporter, but fitted with felt(?) to give it a much more cosy touch. Well done Vantage Van!! Thanks Andrew for the roomtour.
A thorough review, thank you Andrew. We have a SOL, same longe length as the NEO. All our bedding, the duvet, pillows, mattress cover and undersheet fit in the cab space above the tables. This leaves the large underseat locker for loads of spare cloths, food, DVD's. books etc and the very necessary wine & beer! We never struggle for storage space on our trips, which can be from 3 to 6 weeks.
The worry about water getting through the washroom sealant might give a few restless nights but I would be able to recover somewhat in the lovely 'loungable' lounge. Smashing tour!!!
Lovely van. I've admired them at the NEC many a time. Glad I'm not the only one who finds sitting at a dinette torture - I'm not super-tall (a modest 5'11" or so), but with a 34" inside leg I always end up clashing knees with someone or sitting at an angle to fit in. Now, if only I could find a pre-loved one on Gumtree (with a folding sink) for under £10K! (Yeah, I know - and Dougal might smile one day!). Oh, and on the subject of washrooms, having chatted to the guys from Vantage's Yorkshire-based rivals Wildax, I found out that their shower trays are made in-house of GRP, which impressed me anyway. I'm currently resealing the washroom in my latest shed - er, sorry, acquisition! - a 1984 Freight Rover, so that's a topic close to my heart.
With regard to storing bedding in Neo locker. I have a 2013 Neo and we are able to store 2 duvalays with their mattress toppers, 2 folded chairs, a "Cobb" charcoal bbq and some bottles of wine in the locker for travel. The Neo really is a luxury camper for two with loads of storage space !
I'm much more of a caravan than a campervan / motorhome person ... but I really do find myself wanting one of these! Extremely well thought-out, with the added bonus of simply exquisite build quality. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ from me.
We bought a Neo in 2017 after "lusting" for one for several years. Not one regret with the NEO we bought which had many extras or with dealing with Vantage. Top Notch Van conversion and top notch firm to deal with. I had the most difficult decision to make this summer due to hubbies ill health and Vantage made it as easy as they could for me. They collected it during lockdown from the Highlands and took it back to Leeds, sold it for me with an agreed commission and paid me promptly. I cannot tell you how helpful this was in our circumstances. Someone is the lucky new owner of what was our cherished NEO. We travelled both ways, with single beds left made up using duvets etc and also with duvalay's which we rolled up each day and tucked them under the TV.shelf so the rear lounge could be used. The storage worked well for us. We had a safe installed in the locker under the TV. It may seem expensive BUT it was worth every £ and when we sadly had to sell it, it sold for a similar high price as it had held it's value. Just dive in and buy one if your piggy bank will let you would be my best advice. The quality is phenomenal.Loved it!
So sorry you had to say goodbye to your Neo Sheena, but thank you for taking the time to tell us about your excellent experience with Vantage - it seems to be a common theme reading through these comments! All the best for the future, and a wave to my neighbour across the sea from Uist :)
Loved this review. Sitting smug as I have one in the driveway:) it is our 3rd motorhome and finally we have found the right one for us. The quality build is something you notice and feel as soon as you enter the van. You wont go wrong owning and travelling in a Vantage van. Thank you Andrew for the tour. "
We love Vantage that much that we have a Neo in the UK( with a solid back instead of doors) and a Sol here in NZ. We've owned the Neo for five years and have had no problems nor rattles but did amassive solar upgrade and now have a2.6 kw inverter as well. Two duvolays, 4 pillows and other bedding fits under the bed on the kitchen side. There is so much storage its lovely and especially the front cupboard by the driver's seat. We came from a Carhago Chic C line and the Vantage has more storage and fridge space. The only thing we would change if possible is a folding sink above the toilet.
Hi I have a Vantage SOL (same size lounge as a Neo) and with regards to the bedding the side under seat locker will take a kingsize duvet, two single duvets, four pillows and a pair of three step Millenco ramps 😬 Recently we have replaced the kingsize duvet for two mattress toppers and removed the ramps as they were never used and the toppers take up more space
Apparently there is an option to upgrade the fridge for a larger freezer compartment - but this isn't actually listed anywhere. Proves it's worth always asking if you're unhappy with something to see what's possible. If YOU have a Vantage Neo or similar, please do share with us how you store your bedding and tell us what you use. Cheers! :)
Two Duvalay beds and 2 pillows fit in the near side locker comfortably in the EOS. When they are being used we stow all the cushions that are removed for sleeping in there
Great van. The nearside locker under the bed easily takes two Duvalays, three pillows and a king size duvet with room for a bag of a week's dirty clothes.
As you have said throughout the video the quality of this product is outstanding, the attention to detail I think is quite unique these days, if I were to change to a van conversion/motorhome I would certainly be checking out Vantage, thanks for the review, nice work as usual, 👍👍👍
Nice! One thing I do’nt like with vans is that most of them have the same layout that I do’nt like, but this one I like! Then again, being a familly of 5... why did we get 3 kids... It is difficult finding something that works.
Great tour thank you 😊 Bedding in some other vans is packed in tightly above tables in above cab locker. Couldn’t see if there was enough room to stuff bedding in there but possibly an option. Agree with bathroom comments and a fold out sink would give better space.
Hi Andrew, we have had a NEO for three years, accurate review, quality as described. Bathroom all good, no problems with seals or movement. Bedding will fit in locker, we roll our bedding onto one side of the lounge into a backrest shape, wrap a throw around it, put the side cushions on top, full lounge is still usable during the day and we can quickly make up bed by unrolling.
Agreed, you can tell that they have thought about it. Agree about the washroom. The quality & workmanship did come thtough on camera...Told off for touching to much! How do they cope at the supermarket or petrol station (rhetorical question)😊
What a lovely van......................BUT THE PRICE !!!!!!! Its added to my wishlist though :-) Excellent review as always Andrew, love the "Hello....sorry" :-)
Brilliant I want one but I would like a drop down sink in the bath/shower room, great tour as usual thanks for the great video and loving Dougal he is a star 💫🥂🐕🐾🐾
Another excellent and totally honest review, like some, I think the washroom is the only let down; the quality of the conversion shines through. In my opinion I believe there are 3 main van converters in the UK that deliver quality builds - IH, Vantage and Murvi - when you compare the build to mainstream there is no comparison. I love my Murvi Morello, but really came close to buying a Vantage, it came down to price in the end.
We have now had two Vantage Neos and just love the layout and finish. Our first had a drop down wash basin which we actually liked better than the current corner one. Andrew didn't demonstrate that the shower head/tap moves left and right so the bulky spout is not really an issue when using the wash basin. As for bedding, in summer, the area above the cab seats is ok for our duvets and we put our rarely needed blankets on the shelf above the boiler/water pump. For autumn/winter touring we intend to store our silver screen in the area above the cab seats and use the locker for bedding, etc. We tend to leave our beds in place, once on site, using the cab area table for eating if outside not realistic. As an option with both vans we had a sink with a proper drainer fitted by Vantage, which still left sufficient room for prep in the kitchen area.
Great video and a great van Andrew. I do love a Vantage vans. The only let down for me personally is the washroom. After seeing what Burstner have created in a similarly small space within their bathrooms (toilet and sink on a false marble effect wall which opens to create for a proper shower) I would want more for my £68,000. That being said, a Vantage would still be on the top of my PVC wish list. Take care Andrew
We purchased a ‘pre loved’ Vantage Sol last year with a whopping 6000 miles on the clock. Basically, like new. If pushed, the only minor irritation is the pull out shower hose, but heck the shower is powerful, hot and the blown air vent guarantees a nice warm bathroom as well as the rest of the van. The Vantage is not a cheap piece of kit, however, the build quality is exceptional!
Interesting and helpful review. I also favour a rear lounge layout provided it can be left in "bedding" position while travelling long distances. But I think that a full u-shape lounge is unnecessary in a 2-berth van, and means that there is little advantage from having rear doors. Two benches facing each other allow extra access and (when the weather is suitable) can be opened to maximise view and ventilation.
Question about bedding storage ..... we have two kingsize duvets ( 1 winter tog and 1 summer tog ) in the locker under the seat in the back plus two pillows ... works fine , depending on time of year one goes on bottom one on top perfect ... works great for us.
Sadly, I don't have the money for one of these. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the price of the van as shown. When you gave the list of all the extras on that van I was expecting an extra 15 thousand, so the actual price was no where near what I guessed. Compared to the price of new cars (especially if you tick a few options), these prices look reasonable. Well done Vantage.
It's a big end lounge which you have to convert at night to a bed. I prefer my Hymercar layout but these vans will sell well and all of next year we will see vans being sought after by staycationers and European voyagers alike.
An excellent video - you are so right about the uniformity of European conversions! Different brands all playing around with more or less the same basic layout, Vantage and other UK manufacturers offer far more in terms of creative design......not to mention comprehensive cooking facilities! I
We have 2 x displays for.our rear lounge in our Escape 685. One fits in the box under lounge seat. During transit we.out the other on a bench seat. Once on site we swivel the front seats round then store it in the footwell behind the seat.
Such a lovely conversion and beautiful fit and finish, but not enough to get me out of our Airstream 😁. Nice to have 2 helloos and a Dougal sighting. How old is Mr. D. and was he born so stoic or did he get that way viewing so many RV's. Hugs from New Mexico.
Wow...£68,400 is a HUGE amount for a camper. It’s nice, but it doesn’t appear to justify the price tag - some of those options should be standard - colour coded bumpers? Didn’t options like that go out of fashion in th 80’s?
Agreed Taffy, I was stating it’s only the front bumper that comes painted if you pay for the option. ALL vans should come with colour coded bumpers and mirrors, standard. The van is 20k to buy. I can’t see 50k worth of work to justify. Also the equivalent in a coach built motorhome is far bigger and more bang for your buck.
Thank you Dougal for yet another very comprehensive review, its good to see a quality workable alternative layout to the normal mass production models. Is there any need for that bloke who keeps popping up everywhere? Is he your agent or something? ( Sorry just had to do it!)
I have to say, I really do agree with some of the other comments... This is obviously a stunning van, finished to an extremely high quality... no detraction there. But at that sort of price tag... you could get a simillar quality of finish, and as well equipped... and it be fully off road for example... even in the UK Let alone what you can get done on a bespoke conversion. I deefinitely couldn't build and finish a van to this degree, but... for the money... I could definitely have it done As I say, lovely van, can't fault it, but it really does feel very very pricey.
That is a very insightful review. Thanks! Looks like a very robust camper van. I am researching different brands and this definitely has caught my attention. Thank you Dougal! And Andrew ;)
Hi Andrew. And Dougal. We are looking at a Neo too. Is it worth having the 160 hp fiat engine rather. than the standard 140. It’s a £1000 option. Also any views on the new auto gearbox. Which is said to be very good but expensive at over £2000 option.
I have never driven an automatic Ducato so I'm afraid I cannot comment on that aspect. If you check out my previous driving reviews of other van conversions (Sun Living, Carado Vlow, and Adria Twin) they are all based on Ducatos (I cannot remember which is which now!) you'll hear my thoughts on the driving characteristics. Cheers!
I was confused by the title 😁. I own a 2020 Swift. So I took “Very British Camper” to mean thrown together with zero quality control, backed up by after sales whose ignorance is only exceeded by their arrogance. Nice video.
Hi Andrew, I was wonder for a single traveller could I leave the lounge area set up as you show but make a single bed cross ways across the back doors. Don't worry I'm only 5' 5''. Thank you and I'm so enjoying your vids.
You definitely can. If you look at the cushion in the lounge view in the video you can see that there are two cushions for each side, a long one the length of the side seats and a short one the length of the width of the rear seat. Both these cushion can be removed given a sleeping space the width of the van around 1.9m.
An excellent and most detailed review...one of the best in fact I've seen so thank you Andrew. This camper is now competing with the Wildax Aurora as my one to buy next year. Have you reviewed any of the Wildax' yet?
@@andrewjditton you are indeed correct on that one Andrew. Significant differences in price goes in Wildax favour at this moment in time. We intend to tour around mostly Europe in it so will be scrutinising every detail on my top 3 vans. No harm in doing all my research early as its alot of money going out in.one hit so have to make it the right choice. I would dearly love you to do an equally detailed review of the Wildax Aurora. From the research I've already done, it's a cracker of a van 👌
It really is a fantastic camper, if I win the lottery I will purchase one in a heart beat. Never mind about the shower tray, stay at a hotel and have a shower there and in the meantime one night travelling and using the wash up and down and all your important little places will suffice. Point taken on board about the sealant though. Just a thought, for your £67,000 do you get a plug for the sink?
The interior has rather nice colors and clean look, unlike RV's in USA that favor colonial cathedral grained oak raised paneled cabinets. Also the cab seats have multiple colors unlike 98% of all other RV/van seats.
Looks great. Great quality and reasonable price. I wonder if they are able to make a five seater because nobody else seems able to make decent five-seat camper van in Europe ... and I am not talking about a california with no decent living space.
@@andrewjditton That is exactly what I mean ?! What is the point of 5 beds if you can only travel with 4 people ? I never understood that logic. How can you fit 5 (or even 6) people in a Ford Nugget or a VW California comfortably, but is this seemingly impossible for a campervan twice its size ??
Hey Andrew, how would you rate the quality against an Adria Twin? Asking because the Adria seems to be good quality and a good bit cheaper than this one. Thanks.
I'd say they are both quality vans, but the Adria is a more generic layout and sold much wider, so they can take advantage of economies of scale such as pre-formed insulation panels. The Vantage, being handmade and a rare layout (in Europe) is not really a direct comparison. Thanks for watching!
We swapped our Neo for an Adria Twin 18 months ago. Main reason was we wanted a fixed bed being able (at that time) to get away on longer tours and finding it a pain to make the bed every night. Adria is probably more built down to a cost, but also has more of a small motorhome rather than campervan ambience.
Andrew, you would really benefit from a slightly closer fitting denim. you have a great figure and it would look so much better with slightly closer fitting jeans , the ones you have on in this vid are just a little too baggy. love the short sleeved shirt and the textures .
Ha! I've lost quite a few kilos recently and since breaking in these 501s. I did go jeans shopping when back on mainland but because of the current situation we are not allowed to try anything on - and the jeans I bought don't fit! Will have to try again :)
@@andrewjditton I wondered on your last vid if you had lost some weight but didnt want to say it .i think you should consider in place of 501s ( i used to work in a Levis store ) then 504 which i believe is still a slim version would be great for you now .
@@rubberdc Aha! Very useful to know, thanks. Yes, I figured out that added processed sugar was the root cause of my migraines, so switched to a whole food diet and have never been fitter! :) Oh, and I took up running too :)
Hi Andrew I might be wrong but didn’t you test a van that automatically dumped all the fresh water while you were using it. The simpler the better for me. 👍
Keith, that was the frost protection valve that dumped the water when we spent the night in sub-zero temperatures with no heating! So that wasn't to do with the dump valves. Cheers!
So in order to get a spoon out you need to open a door and then open a drawer...doesn't sound like much but it would get old fast. There was no need to put a door in front of the drawers other then the looks. From a practical standpoint, it makes no sense.
I’m with you on that, Andrew does keep the volume of the background music low but for me that makes it worse as my brain can’t shut the music out, for me the music is not necessary whilst Andrew is talking 🤔
OK that's good to know. It's to add a bit of atmosphere to the video. I don't always over lay music and normally I don't, but some feel it adds a layer of 'quality.' I'll continue with moderation!
Andrew Ditton thank you for replying, I really enjoyed this video and happened to read the above comment from S Miller, half way though you dropped the background bluesy music and for me everything became so much clearer and I was able to focus on your narration. It’s your content and you have to please a wide audience, I’m pleased you didn’t treat it as a criticism 🙏
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Nice to see a review of Vantage quality especially as an owner. We redesigned the rear bench so that we could access the garage fully from within the lounge opting not to have that rabbit hatch :-) You can do these things when its built to your needs and not on a production line thousands of miles away. The fridge may look small but its a Tardis and the van worked perfectly in the Alps for Christmas and New Year. We love it.
Thanks for sharing!
wevegonetouring we had a very large fridge in a Carthago C line, but we can fit more in the vantage one😱 in fact we love our Vantage that we have the Neo in the UK and bought a Sol for home here in NZ. Very solid.
@@billvandammen8429 hello Bill…I’m in New Zealand and really keen on buying a Vantage Neo….may I contact you to ask a couple of questions?
Hi Andrew, great info again thanks. We have a Vantage Sol (Same rear lounge layout as the Neo). Absolutely no problems with bedding or other storage as stated below. We love the layout and travel in the north of Scotland in winter quite comfortably. The only compromise is if you use the bedding layout as a double bed (which we do) means that you have to make up and unmake the bed every evening / morning so you have to be reasonably fit and organised to crawl about to do that. The five / ten minutes every day is well worth it however for the comfort of the rear lounge for the rest of the time. However believe it or not we have been most impressed by the very efficient marine / compressor fridge. It holds five days worth of fresh food easily and there is enough room in the ice compartment for a few days worth of ice for the Isle of Harris gin ;> It has been designed by real users, that is obvious... a great product. By the way no problems at all with the shower tray over the three years we have owned the Van, this is a definite red herring and I would not even consider it issue or a concern in the newer Vantage vans.
Good to know, cheers Willie!
Beautiful well designed conversion. For me it's just missing a couple of little things.....two armrests on the front seats for when they're swivelled.
Don’t mess about with duvets, get 2 decent sleeping bags that can (if you want to) join together, roll them up into stuff sacks when finished and they don’t take up as much room as a big duvet, that’s what we do in our van 😃👍🏻
Mark Dolby that’s nice for you, why do you think other want to do what you do? Duvet all the way.
Jabber 1974 that’s nice for you but a waste of storage space unless you have a fixed bed, which we don’t.
We do the same, even with the liner it doesn't take much room the pillows take more. Still leaves plenty of room for other bits an pieces.
So I got a kitchen fitted 12 years ago and I am jumping with joy because it is the exact same colour cupboards! So no need for me to upgrade! Bedding is always a problem. I keep the duvalay in the awning but no idea on this. Continental thin bedding with high togs maybe the answer. It did hold my attention though as a beautiful conversion. The tap is a no- no as water drips back down the shower hose and rusts the the thing to bits! Having said that. I WANT ONE! Thanks for lighting up my Sunday night! ❤️❤️❤️👌👌👌
Glad you enjoyed it Peter! :)
Pre Covid I used to pass these guys every day on my park and ride. Interesting to see what actually goes on.
In our two berth caravan, I leave the Duvalay on the beds, cover with throws during the day, lovely van, love to Dougal. Thank. you Andrew, take care.
Great idea!
Love the tour, no apologies necessary for your quirks! I try to guess when I’ll hear ‘hello’ and when I’ll see Dugal!
I'd love one of these. Looks like the perfect combination of comfort, practicality and feeling like you're out camping!
Dougal is a movie star!
It's great to see you and Dougal back doing your reviews. You have a great attention to detail and know what us vehicle users find useful.
Honest and unbiased as ever.
Stay safe!
Michelle.
Thanks Michelle!
We have owned a Vantage Neo since 2014. It is a fantastic van with superb build quality and works even better in practice than we imagined - just so practical with loads of storage. As far as bedding is concerned under the seat we have four pillows, two single duvets, two single Duvalay toppers, an extra thin blanket and in winter a very large thick blanket that we hang between the cab and living space to assist with heating. In addition we also carry under there a small oil filled heater and a bag for dirty laundry plus a second set of covers for the bedding. Absolutely amazing what you can get in there.
Very comprehensive and fair video Andrew. We have a Sol (6m) but very similar in most respects and we're very pleased with it. I agree with the comments about a drop-down basin - that would make showering easier. Regarding storage: we can fit our two toppers, duvets and pillows in the locker (just). They certainly are well made vans and Vantage are great at after sales service.
Some great user experience there thank you Donald, most helpful. Cheers!
Great stuff Michael, thanks for sharing your experience. Very helpful. All the best!
We have had our NEO for about 18 months and love it. We downsized from an A class and were concerned about storage but it hasn't been an issue at all as the NEO has plenty! We store 2 single duvets, 6 pillows and a rotary dryer in the under seat locker. We leave our toppers on the seats covered with throws during the day. They would fit in the locker of we took out the airer. The washroom works for us and I don't really see the point of a folding sink - it would only be something else to go wrong! Understand your point about the shower tray but if you look at the quality of the sealing to the walls, I think it will be many years before it becomes an issue. We really like the galley area and the worktop extensions. Good review Andrew as it really does get across the build quality..
I enjoyed the video with the wide angle lens portion, it really helps to get a feeling for the layout and the space and put the details you show later into context! 👍
Glad you enjoyed it!
Wow. This is a really great looking van conversion. It even sounds good (soft closing doors etc.). Rear lounges are getting more popular in Germany on B class motorhomes. Hopefully that will lead to similar layouts in van conversions, also. What I liked especially in this van is that there even is a garage (which sometimes isn't with rear lounges). And I've never seen a van conversion where the swivel console(?) under the front seats is not kept as it is in a transporter, but fitted with felt(?) to give it a much more cosy touch. Well done Vantage Van!! Thanks Andrew for the roomtour.
Thanks Jutta! Glad you enjoyed it.
A thorough review, thank you Andrew. We have a SOL, same longe length as the NEO. All our bedding, the duvet, pillows, mattress cover and undersheet fit in the cab space above the tables. This leaves the large underseat locker for loads of spare cloths, food, DVD's. books etc and the very necessary wine & beer! We never struggle for storage space on our trips, which can be from 3 to 6 weeks.
Great to know - and it seems there are a lot of very satisfied owners out there. All the best John.
The worry about water getting through the washroom sealant might give a few restless nights but I would be able to recover somewhat in the lovely 'loungable' lounge. Smashing tour!!!
Cheers Mark!
Lovely van. I've admired them at the NEC many a time. Glad I'm not the only one who finds sitting at a dinette torture - I'm not super-tall (a modest 5'11" or so), but with a 34" inside leg I always end up clashing knees with someone or sitting at an angle to fit in. Now, if only I could find a pre-loved one on Gumtree (with a folding sink) for under £10K! (Yeah, I know - and Dougal might smile one day!).
Oh, and on the subject of washrooms, having chatted to the guys from Vantage's Yorkshire-based rivals Wildax, I found out that their shower trays are made in-house of GRP, which impressed me anyway. I'm currently resealing the washroom in my latest shed - er, sorry, acquisition! - a 1984 Freight Rover, so that's a topic close to my heart.
With regard to storing bedding in Neo locker. I have a 2013 Neo and we are able to store 2 duvalays with their mattress toppers, 2 folded chairs, a "Cobb" charcoal bbq and some bottles of wine in the locker for travel. The Neo really is a luxury camper for two with loads of storage space !
Wow! Good to know thanks Christopher. I'm certainly not challenging you to a game of Jenga! :)
I'm much more of a caravan than a campervan / motorhome person ... but I really do find myself wanting one of these! Extremely well thought-out, with the added bonus of simply exquisite build quality. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ from me.
FINALLY ! A full Review of the ever elusive vantage neo 😃 , thank you mr ditton , superb van and very well presented I must say 👍 thanks for the tour
My pleasure!
The pop up sockets columns are a fantastic idea with usbs too.
He never smiles but he does love you! And we love him!
We bought a Neo in 2017 after "lusting" for one for several years. Not one regret with the NEO we bought which had many extras or with dealing with Vantage. Top Notch Van conversion and top notch firm to deal with. I had the most difficult decision to make this summer due to hubbies ill health and Vantage made it as easy as they could for me. They collected it during lockdown from the Highlands and took it back to Leeds, sold it for me with an agreed commission and paid me promptly. I cannot tell you how helpful this was in our circumstances. Someone is the lucky new owner of what was our cherished NEO. We travelled both ways, with single beds left made up using duvets etc and also with duvalay's which we rolled up each day and tucked them under the TV.shelf so the rear lounge could be used. The storage worked well for us. We had a safe installed in the locker under the TV. It may seem expensive BUT it was worth every £ and when we sadly had to sell it, it sold for a similar high price as it had held it's value. Just dive in and buy one if your piggy bank will let you would be my best advice. The quality is phenomenal.Loved it!
So sorry you had to say goodbye to your Neo Sheena, but thank you for taking the time to tell us about your excellent experience with Vantage - it seems to be a common theme reading through these comments! All the best for the future, and a wave to my neighbour across the sea from Uist :)
Loved this review. Sitting smug as I have one in the driveway:) it is our 3rd motorhome and finally we have found the right one for us. The quality build is something you notice and feel as soon as you enter the van. You wont go wrong owning and travelling in a Vantage van. Thank you Andrew for the tour. "
Good choice!
We love Vantage that much that we have a Neo in the UK( with a solid back instead of doors) and a Sol here in NZ. We've owned the Neo for five years and have had no problems nor rattles but did amassive solar upgrade and now have a2.6 kw inverter as well. Two duvolays, 4 pillows and other bedding fits under the bed on the kitchen side. There is so much storage its lovely and especially the front cupboard by the driver's seat. We came from a Carhago Chic C line and the Vantage has more storage and fridge space. The only thing we would change if possible is a folding sink above the toilet.
That's great to know Bill, cheers!
Hi I have a Vantage SOL (same size lounge as a Neo) and with regards to the bedding the side under seat locker will take a kingsize duvet, two single duvets, four pillows and a pair of three step Millenco ramps 😬 Recently we have replaced the kingsize duvet for two mattress toppers and removed the ramps as they were never used and the toppers take up more space
Good to know - thank you!
Thanks Andrew. Very lovely. Except I agree with the shower tray issue and tap.
Love the quality and honesty, Androugal. Interesting cabinets, and very inviting layout. You are looking fabulous, by the way.
Thank you so much!
Apparently there is an option to upgrade the fridge for a larger freezer compartment - but this isn't actually listed anywhere. Proves it's worth always asking if you're unhappy with something to see what's possible.
If YOU have a Vantage Neo or similar, please do share with us how you store your bedding and tell us what you use. Cheers! :)
We managed to get two duvalays and pillows into the nearside locker in our 2012 Neo, along with a few other bits and pieces!
Two Duvalay beds and 2 pillows fit in the near side locker comfortably in the EOS. When they are being used we stow all the cushions that are removed for sleeping in there
@@NeoVanMan Good to know, thank you!
@@Photosbykev1 That's useful to know, thank you Kevin!
Great van. The nearside locker under the bed easily takes two Duvalays, three pillows and a king size duvet with room for a bag of a week's dirty clothes.
I also like the amount of space you get on the counter .
As you have said throughout the video the quality of this product is outstanding, the attention to detail I think is quite unique these days, if I were to change to a van conversion/motorhome I would certainly be checking out Vantage, thanks for the review, nice work as usual, 👍👍👍
Thanks Pete!
Nice!
One thing I do’nt like with vans is that most of them have the same layout that I do’nt like, but this one I like!
Then again, being a familly of 5... why did we get 3 kids... It is difficult finding something that works.
Great tour thank you 😊
Bedding in some other vans is packed in tightly above tables in above cab locker. Couldn’t see if there was enough room to stuff bedding in there but possibly an option. Agree with bathroom comments and a fold out sink would give better space.
Thanks for the tips!
Wow , one of the nicest van conversations ive seen and great to see the main man at the end x
Hi Andrew, we have had a NEO for three years, accurate review, quality as described. Bathroom all good, no problems with seals or movement. Bedding will fit in locker, we roll our bedding onto one side of the lounge into a backrest shape, wrap a throw around it, put the side cushions on top, full lounge is still usable during the day and we can quickly make up bed by unrolling.
Good to know! Thanks for sharing. Seems that everyone loves their Neo, and I can see why. All the best.
Agreed, you can tell that they have thought about it. Agree about the washroom. The quality & workmanship did come thtough on camera...Told off for touching to much! How do they cope at the supermarket or petrol station (rhetorical question)😊
That’s very nice, especially the end lounge
Excellent review, and lovely to see Dougal!
Many thanks!
I really liked what I saw. Many nice details and smart solutions. I especially liked the propane tank. Get this brand to Norway.
Another great Video, Hats off to Vantage for the Craftsmenship, This van is perfect and well thoughtout, Well done,
What a lovely van......................BUT THE PRICE !!!!!!! Its added to my wishlist though :-) Excellent review as always Andrew, love the "Hello....sorry" :-)
Brilliant I want one but I would like a drop down sink in the bath/shower room, great tour as usual thanks for the great video and loving Dougal he is a star 💫🥂🐕🐾🐾
Another excellent and totally honest review, like some, I think the washroom is the only let down; the quality of the conversion shines through. In my opinion I believe there are 3 main van converters in the UK that deliver quality builds - IH, Vantage and Murvi - when you compare the build to mainstream there is no comparison. I love my Murvi Morello, but really came close to buying a Vantage, it came down to price in the end.
Well said!
We have now had two Vantage Neos and just love the layout and finish. Our first had a drop down wash basin which we actually liked better than the current corner one. Andrew didn't demonstrate that the shower head/tap moves left and right so the bulky spout is not really an issue when using the wash basin. As for bedding, in summer, the area above the cab seats is ok for our duvets and we put our rarely needed blankets on the shelf above the boiler/water pump. For autumn/winter touring we intend to store our silver screen in the area above the cab seats and use the locker for bedding, etc. We tend to leave our beds in place, once on site, using the cab area table for eating if outside not realistic. As an option with both vans we had a sink with a proper drainer fitted by Vantage, which still left sufficient room for prep in the kitchen area.
Good to know, cheers Joseph!
Like the wide angle tour!
Very nice van, but why didn’t they install a foldable sink in the bathroom.. It makes the shower soooo much more useable.
People either love or hate fold-out sinks. I agree, they are a good use of space.
Our 2012 Neo did have a folding sink, we thought the fixed version was a backward move when introduced.
I don't like foldable sinks, but I also dislike standing on the shower tray when using the sink or toilet.🤔
After seeing this video I have to agree a folding sink would be much better. This standard sink takes away so much room from the entire bathroom.
Great video and a great van Andrew. I do love a Vantage vans. The only let down for me personally is the washroom. After seeing what Burstner have created in a similarly small space within their bathrooms (toilet and sink on a false marble effect wall which opens to create for a proper shower) I would want more for my £68,000. That being said, a Vantage would still be on the top of my PVC wish list. Take care Andrew
Thank you for the wide-angled camera preview. Much appreciated. xx
I always use vacuum bags for pillows and bedding, it reduces by 3/4 the space needed.
Top tip, cheers Paul!
Very informative review. Beautiful quality finish. Dougal wonderful as ever!
Thank you kindly!
Great video. I’m visiting tomorrow so thought I’d take a look before I go. Thanks as always for sharing your knowledge.
Hope you enjoyed the visit, Sylvia!
A flawless vlog, love your honesty. I am looking for a new camper, but sadly Vantage will not be on my list.
Sorry to hear that
We purchased a ‘pre loved’ Vantage Sol last year with a whopping 6000 miles on the clock. Basically, like new. If pushed, the only minor irritation is the pull out shower hose, but heck the shower is powerful, hot and the blown air vent guarantees a nice warm bathroom as well as the rest of the van. The Vantage is not a cheap piece of kit, however, the build quality is exceptional!
That's good to know Brian. I've not heard a bad word from a Vantage owner!
Interesting and helpful review. I also favour a rear lounge layout provided it can be left in "bedding" position while travelling long distances. But I think that a full u-shape lounge is unnecessary in a 2-berth van, and means that there is little advantage from having rear doors. Two benches facing each other allow extra access and (when the weather is suitable) can be opened to maximise view and ventilation.
Great walk through and review Andrew, not my cuppa, but always good to see what’s going on for those on the dark side... 👍🏻
Glad you enjoyed it Roger!
Thanks. Brilliant well informed video. Lovely van. Just two faults for me, sink over shower and price eek!
Looks like it’s well made. Thanks Andrew 😀
great honest review there Andrew. Lovely van.
Glad you liked it!
With a large pop top double bed I’m thinking that would be my ideal layout.
Hello!! 👋 wow!!! I absolutely love that 👍
The quality looks fantastic 👏 👌
Hi dougal 😊🐕
Thank you! Cheers!
Question about bedding storage ..... we have two kingsize duvets ( 1 winter tog and 1 summer tog ) in the locker under the seat in the back plus two pillows ... works fine , depending on time of year one goes on bottom one on top perfect ... works great for us.
Good to know, cheers John!
Sadly, I don't have the money for one of these. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the price of the van as shown. When you gave the list of all the extras on that van I was expecting an extra 15 thousand, so the actual price was no where near what I guessed. Compared to the price of new cars (especially if you tick a few options), these prices look reasonable. Well done Vantage.
Helloo ! Great video love the van .Plenty of room for one . Hi Dougal .👍🏴🏴🏴🏴👍👍🏴🏴🏴🏴👍
Great detailed review, thanks for taking us around. 👍
Thanks for watching!
It's a big end lounge which you have to convert at night to a bed. I prefer my Hymercar layout but these vans will sell well and all of next year we will see vans being sought after by staycationers and European voyagers alike.
Other than the bathroom items you mentioned this is perfect!
An excellent video - you are so right about the uniformity of European conversions! Different brands all playing around with more or less the same basic layout, Vantage and other UK manufacturers offer far more in terms of creative design......not to mention comprehensive cooking facilities!
I
Thanks Robert! Yes, we don't all want to sit bolt upright in a half dinette all evening do we? Thanks for watching.
Hello FROM DENMARK BJARNE XPOST greth VIDEOS FROM YOU AND CAMPER VAN 🇩🇰🇬🇧👍
We have 2 x displays for.our rear lounge in our Escape 685. One fits in the box under lounge seat. During transit we.out the other on a bench seat. Once on site we swivel the front seats round then store it in the footwell behind the seat.
Duvalays. Not displays!
Footwell - great idea! :)
Vacuum bags might be a solution to the bedding storage problem.
Such a lovely conversion and beautiful fit and finish, but not enough to get me out of our Airstream 😁. Nice to have 2 helloos and a Dougal sighting. How old is Mr. D. and was he born so stoic or did he get that way viewing so many RV's. Hugs from New Mexico.
He's 9 now Karen! He's always been superior :) Hugs back over the pond to you.
Wow...£68,400 is a HUGE amount for a camper. It’s nice, but it doesn’t appear to justify the price tag - some of those options should be standard - colour coded bumpers? Didn’t options like that go out of fashion in th 80’s?
Not standard on the base van, that’s probably why.
Colour coded front bumper only...
@@ArnoldClarke For nearly £70k, I'd expect Vantage to include painted bumpers as part of the price. Its top end price with mediocre equipment.
Agreed Taffy, I was stating it’s only the front bumper that comes painted if you pay for the option. ALL vans should come with colour coded bumpers and mirrors, standard. The van is 20k to buy. I can’t see 50k worth of work to justify. Also the equivalent in a coach built motorhome is far bigger and more bang for your buck.
@@ArnoldClarke Totally agree with you Arnold about the cost compared to a motorhome, I see what your saying about the painted bumper option.
Thank you Dougal for yet another very comprehensive review, its good to see a quality workable alternative layout to the normal mass production models. Is there any need for that bloke who keeps popping up everywhere? Is he your agent or something? ( Sorry just had to do it!)
I have to say, I really do agree with some of the other comments... This is obviously a stunning van, finished to an extremely high quality... no detraction there. But at that sort of price tag... you could get a simillar quality of finish, and as well equipped... and it be fully off road for example... even in the UK
Let alone what you can get done on a bespoke conversion.
I deefinitely couldn't build and finish a van to this degree, but... for the money... I could definitely have it done
As I say, lovely van, can't fault it, but it really does feel very very pricey.
Nice one Mr Ditton nice camper van just need to rob a bank LOL .kev
A nice tour Andrew thank you.Rab
Cheers Rab!
That is a very insightful review. Thanks! Looks like a very robust camper van. I am researching different brands and this definitely has caught my attention. Thank you Dougal! And Andrew ;)
Glad it was helpful!
Holy moley Batman! That's $91,000. Vehicles are much more expensive in the UK than on this side of the pond. Thanks for the look see.
Skip forward 3 years and these with the mentioned extras are close to 85k....its gone crazy
Hi Andrew. And Dougal. We are looking at a Neo too. Is it worth having the 160 hp fiat engine rather. than the standard 140. It’s a £1000 option. Also any views on the new auto gearbox. Which is said to be very good but expensive at over £2000 option.
I have never driven an automatic Ducato so I'm afraid I cannot comment on that aspect. If you check out my previous driving reviews of other van conversions (Sun Living, Carado Vlow, and Adria Twin) they are all based on Ducatos (I cannot remember which is which now!) you'll hear my thoughts on the driving characteristics. Cheers!
İ like this design.
I was confused by the title 😁. I own a 2020 Swift. So I took “Very British Camper” to mean thrown together with zero quality control, backed up by after sales whose ignorance is only exceeded by their arrogance. Nice video.
Oh dear, sorry to hear that :( Hope you get your van sorted soon.
Another nice van, sadly vans these days do not have curtains. I think they make a van more homely
Hi Andrew, I was wonder for a single traveller could I leave the lounge area set up as you show but make a single bed cross ways across the back doors. Don't worry I'm only 5' 5''. Thank you and I'm so enjoying your vids.
Hi Paul, I'm not terribly sure to be truthful. Give the guys at Vantage a ring and they'll give you an honest answer. Thanks for watching!
You definitely can. If you look at the cushion in the lounge view in the video you can see that there are two cushions for each side, a long one the length of the side seats and a short one the length of the width of the rear seat. Both these cushion can be removed given a sleeping space the width of the van around 1.9m.
An excellent and most detailed review...one of the best in fact I've seen so thank you Andrew. This camper is now competing with the Wildax Aurora as my one to buy next year. Have you reviewed any of the Wildax' yet?
Thanks Ian. No, I've not yet done an in depth review of a WildAx, but I'd love to. I think you have a very tough choice between the two!
@@andrewjditton you are indeed correct on that one Andrew. Significant differences in price goes in Wildax favour at this moment in time.
We intend to tour around mostly Europe in it so will be scrutinising every detail on my top 3 vans. No harm in doing all my research early as its alot of money going out in.one hit so have to make it the right choice.
I would dearly love you to do an equally detailed review of the Wildax Aurora. From the research I've already done, it's a cracker of a van 👌
Amazing 👍❤️👍
It really is a fantastic camper, if I win the lottery I will purchase one in a heart beat. Never mind about the shower tray, stay at a hotel and have a shower there and in the meantime one night travelling and using the wash up and down and all your important little places will suffice. Point taken on board about the sealant though. Just a thought, for your £67,000 do you get a plug for the sink?
I would think so Bernadette... if not, that's a negotiation point! ;@)
The interior has rather nice colors and clean look, unlike RV's in USA that favor colonial cathedral grained oak raised paneled cabinets. Also the cab seats have multiple colors unlike 98% of all other RV/van seats.
Looks great. Great quality and reasonable price.
I wonder if they are able to make a five seater because nobody else seems able to make decent five-seat camper van in Europe ... and I am not talking about a california with no decent living space.
Check out the two larger models... the Sky I believe is five berth, but only 4 travel seats I think... have a look at the website Tom. Cheers!
@@andrewjditton That is exactly what I mean ?! What is the point of 5 beds if you can only travel with 4 people ? I never understood that logic.
How can you fit 5 (or even 6) people in a Ford Nugget or a VW California comfortably, but is this seemingly impossible for a campervan twice its size ??
Hey Andrew, how would you rate the quality against an Adria Twin? Asking because the Adria seems to be good quality and a good bit cheaper than this one. Thanks.
I'd say they are both quality vans, but the Adria is a more generic layout and sold much wider, so they can take advantage of economies of scale such as pre-formed insulation panels. The Vantage, being handmade and a rare layout (in Europe) is not really a direct comparison. Thanks for watching!
We swapped our Neo for an Adria Twin 18 months ago. Main reason was we wanted a fixed bed being able (at that time) to get away on longer tours and finding it a pain to make the bed every night. Adria is probably more built down to a cost, but also has more of a small motorhome rather than campervan ambience.
This vehicle oozes quality.😁👍
Those cabinet hinges on the washroom door and on the washroom cabinet...will show signs of rust within weeks of use..
David Reall Our Vantage is six years old and no rust so not a problem.
I think a better window option would be better, for me those windows just look cheap
Does the droning background "music" add anything?
Andrew, you would really benefit from a slightly closer fitting denim. you have a great figure and it would look so much better with slightly closer fitting jeans , the ones you have on in this vid are just a little too baggy. love the short sleeved shirt and the textures .
Ha! I've lost quite a few kilos recently and since breaking in these 501s. I did go jeans shopping when back on mainland but because of the current situation we are not allowed to try anything on - and the jeans I bought don't fit! Will have to try again :)
@@andrewjditton I wondered on your last vid if you had lost some weight but didnt want to say it .i think you should consider in place of 501s ( i used to work in a Levis store ) then 504 which i believe is still a slim version would be great for you now .
@@rubberdc Aha! Very useful to know, thanks. Yes, I figured out that added processed sugar was the root cause of my migraines, so switched to a whole food diet and have never been fitter! :) Oh, and I took up running too :)
@@andrewjditton good on you for taking up running , I couldnt . I have migraines only if i spend way too much time on the internet .lol.
Fiat never put cup holders in cab??
Can they weld the back doors together and have open like a tailgate? Pull out decking would be good to.
Cup holders *are* an option in place of the lockable cupboard - one that I would go for!
Hi Andrew
I might be wrong but didn’t you test a van that automatically dumped all the fresh water while you were using it. The simpler the better for me. 👍
Keith, that was the frost protection valve that dumped the water when we spent the night in sub-zero temperatures with no heating! So that wasn't to do with the dump valves. Cheers!
Andrew Ditton thanks Andrew for taking the time to answer. Yes I remember, it was cold.
3x Hello/Sorry in one van walkthrough....is that a record?
So in order to get a spoon out you need to open a door and then open a drawer...doesn't sound like much but it would get old fast. There was no need to put a door in front of the drawers other then the looks. From a practical standpoint, it makes no sense.
It's both a neat look, and the door holds all the drawers shut when travelling and keeps the items that are stored on the shelf above the sink in.
Not only looks better but stops your clothes catching on handles as you pass.
Why why why Andrew do you bloggers keep playing background music when you are also talking it is so frustratingly annoying and distracting.
I’m with you on that, Andrew does keep the volume of the background music low but for me that makes it worse as my brain can’t shut the music out, for me the music is not necessary whilst Andrew is talking 🤔
OK that's good to know. It's to add a bit of atmosphere to the video. I don't always over lay music and normally I don't, but some feel it adds a layer of 'quality.' I'll continue with moderation!
Andrew Ditton thank you for replying, I really enjoyed this video and happened to read the above comment from S Miller, half way though you dropped the background bluesy music and for me everything became so much clearer and I was able to focus on your narration. It’s your content and you have to please a wide audience, I’m pleased you didn’t treat it as a criticism 🙏