Auto-Trail EXPEDITION 68 - First Look Series 8 Ducato

[@VantasticAdventures]

Thanks for all the lovely comments and feedback, we had lots of questions so have collated all the answers below and will pin this comment to the top to help anyone else looking for information: 1) Will the Expedition 68 Non Pop Top have roof vents? Yes, the non pop top will have one large roof vent fitted over the fixed bed at the rear 2) Will the Expedition 68 Non Pop Top get the extending dinette table like the Expedition 67? Yes, the Non Pop Top 68 will get the Expedition 67 extending table 3) Will the bathroom window be fitted as standard? The bathroom window will be standard on Expedition 67 and 68 when the Pop Top option is selected for MY2022. Auto-Trail will also be potentially offering it as a cost option on these two models (only) without the Pop Top 4) Will the Expedition 68 be a series 7 or 8 Ducato? All Expedition 68’s will be series 8 in production We also had lots of questions on the new 12v fridge, please see below the product link which hopefully helps answer most of them: www.thetford-europe.com/gb/products/refrigerators/12v-refrigerators/t2090 Also welcome to our new subscribers, thanks for taking the time to subscribe it allows us to hopefully review more vans in the future as the channel grows!

[@C4SMT]

Do you know if there will be some kind of bathroom ventilation for the non pop top models if it's not going to be a window. Did they say when the window might become an option? Thanks.

[@C4SMT]

Oh and did they say if there was going to be overcab storage on non pop top models? Thanks.

[@VantasticAdventures]

Hello, not exactly sure when the window option will be available for the 68 non pop top but it should be for 2022. The standard version will most likely be similar to our Adventure, we don't have a window or vent and no issues so far. It has a vent for hot air so it warms up nicely and we use it as a drying room for wet gear and open the door when not in use so it has circulation 👍

[@VantasticAdventures]

Ah sorry forgot that question 😂 will try and find out for you and reply to this message 👍

[@C4SMT]

@@VantasticAdventures The latest AT price list for optional extras now actually lists the option of a bathroom window in lieu of a mushroom vent for £350. Also worth noting the base price of a 68 has gone up over £2k since we ordered ours in September!

[@jamesfearn1692]

Steve will be well happy, his bikes have made it on to KZbin. Having a van that is designed by someone who actually uses one makes a big difference. Autotrail are on to a winner with this one. It is a properly designed and useable van. 👍🏻

[@VantasticAdventures]

Good spot James 😂👍 Couldn't decide which was more exciting when filming this video, the campervan or the bikes, fantastic kit, very impressed 😁 Agree 100% on the design, it really shows someone who has a keen interest in bikes was big part of the build and layout, very well thought out indeed.

[@ashleyholland4853]

Love video and the van. Getting one is another matter !

[@johnlewis8168]

That's 100% dream camper for me! Perfect layout for any mountain biker, camper and outdoor junkie. Best start saving my pennies. :)

[@VantasticAdventures]

Thanks John, totally agree it's a perfect set up for bikes of any type or the great outdoors in general but especially for mountain bikers 😁👍

[@johnlewis8168]

@@VantasticAdventures 1000% agree on value for money too! A VW crafter same spec that'd have to be a custom build would easily be in the £140k region. 😬

[@doricduncan1]

Thank you, very interesting new model, amazing layout and with that garage it’s a really attractive prospect

[@VantasticAdventures]

Thanks Duncan, it's a clever design and looks to be a popular choice already this year 👍😁

[@timmoss3343]

Excellent description, love this van, as I'm into mountain biking aswell, it's perfect for our needs.

[@VantasticAdventures]

Thanks Tim, it's a really clever design for bike storage with compromising the interior space - thanks for watching and taking the time to comment 😁👍

[@davidmarek72]

Looks good, very well presented and informative - thanks for taking the time to do this.

[@VantasticAdventures]

Thank you David that's very nice of you to say 🥰 Very impressed with this van and the layout 😁👍

[@Wheres_wanda_wandering]

I think this is a van for younger people. It would have suited us 20 years ago when we had a young family and we were more agile. We could have put all the bikes in the boot and the kids in the pop top. The front would have been perfect as a place to eat and play games. Sadly I’ve some mobility issues now and would not be able to manage the ladders. Take care Gill

[@VantasticAdventures]

Aw thanks Gill 🥰 yes you make a very good point, not ideal for mobility issues but good for families and outdoor activities. Hopefully with the pricing it will be affordable too for this audience 👍 Have a lovely weekend and thanks for commenting 😁

[@BobEarnshawMoHo]

They are really coming these Aventure Vans. I saw an Adventure 55 at Todd's last week but that was on a '21 model Ducato. I' d live to have a drive of the new Ducato Auto. Sounds like you have a loaner there. Great news.

[@VantasticAdventures]

Thanks Bob, just watching you look round the Adventure actually as we speak 😂 Thank you, yes the pop tops are becoming very popular options and can’t wait to drive the Ducato Auto too, heard very good reviews 👍

[@domk1981]

Great review. Just had confirmation today my 68 is built and awaiting transport to dealer! Can’t get to get it on 1st March!

[@VantasticAdventures]

Thank you and great news! Bet you can't wait, it's a fantastic van and perfect timing ready for the new season 😁👍

[@razorfaat]

A really excellent first impressions vid, thanks Iain. You mentioned that the pop top is a new design for 2022, do you know specifically what the differences are to your van?

[@VantasticAdventures]

Thank you Paul 😁👍 It's a slightly different design, not much difference I could see but the front profile is lower where it joins the van and the catches are different to fasten compared to the Adventure. The opening vents and windows all looked similar too, I believe it's a new roof from Auto-Trail themselves they have developed which makes sense as they have become so much more popular 👍

[@DolittleCampers]

I love your van but think this takes it to the next level. It’s insane value for money. Our T6 conversion was £48k and Id say that’s far better value. Genuinely thought you were going to say around 65k. Thanks for such an in depth tour

[@VantasticAdventures]

Thank you 🥰 yes it is very good value isn’t it? Plenty of standard specification too! 😁👍

[@seanfallon4580]

Thank you so much for a very informative video your very good it sure is a lovely van and very practical especially with to pull out trays which make finding things really easy, also its really good value for the money 👌 Thank you again and happy camping 👍

[@VantasticAdventures]

Thank you Sean, that’s very nice of you to say 🥰 We were really impressed by this van especially the garage area and value for money as you say, think it will be a good seller 😁👍

[@TDRAcademy]

Can’t wait to see this can in the flesh, which may be may this year. Have preordered one as want the extra storage for all our activities equipment. A VW California just isnt big enough anymore! Sadly our preorder is 2023 due to shortages apparently - would take it tomorrow if we could! We stay off grid mostly, so i’m hoping the extra battery with the solar panels will be enough to not have to drive to charge for a few days at least. Will be a learning curve. Can’t wait though! Good on ya for the videos!!👍☺️

[@VantasticAdventures]

Thank you and congratulations! Bet you can't wait 😁👍 Hope the build comes forward for you too 🤞 The solar panel and 2 batteries should be good off grid, we manage with 1 battery but only 2 nights at a time anything more would add a second battery 🔋 so good plan 👍

[@louiseswingby6058]

Hi Iain, thanks for the first view of the new 68 and not just the prototype which we had seen in person, its nice to see the new series 8 cab. We ordered a van purely based on the prototype and the advertisement in Cycling Plus, it appears league time will place the van on a 22 reg plate. On the review you have mentioned the new cassette toilet and bathroom window, please can you explain when will the window be fitted and could you explain what is new about the design of the toilet?

[@VantasticAdventures]

Hello Louise, glad you liked the video and we loved the van, great choice - bet you can't wait 🥰 Sorry about the toilet, yes I filmed it but the autofocus on the camera failed so I couldn't use the footage - I will take Caroline next time 😂 It's a different design to the Adventure, it has a separate water tank for the flush which means you can add flush addictive such as Thetford pink but most importantly it gives you extra water for off grid. The Adventure uses water from the main tank but this model has an extra tank which can be filled in the cassette compartment I think takes another 17 litres. The window I believe will be standard on the 68 but hadn't yet been fitted to Auto-Trail's own van as it was produced before the window was designed and I went to film but for final customer build I believe it will be included but not 100% sure. I will try and find out and post to social media channels when certain 👍 Our Adventure doesn't have one in the bathroom, not a deal breaker for us but it would be a useful addition. Thanks for the questions and taking the time to comment, very much appreciated 😁

[@joemccabe3029]

Hi, thanks for the review, this van looks great for us. In the video you mentioned that the toilet or cassette had a new design or features but I think I missed the explanation about it. Can you provide here please? Thanks Joe

[@VantasticAdventures]

Hi Joe, good spot 👍 unfortunately the microphone failed to record that section and wasn't able to include it so great question! The difference from our Adventure is the tank has its own water source, i.e it doesn't drain the main tank when you flush so it means you can stay off grid for longer as can carry more on board water. It will also allow you to add a toilet clean flush type fluid as you would with a caravan, we haven't really had an issue with ours not having this but some people prefer to have a flush additive which helps keep everything fresh. We use a spray bottle depending on the usage but a separate tank would be very useful. Apart from that it's a similar set up, easy to use and empty etc. 👍

[@joemccabe3029]

@@VantasticAdventures mmm, thanks for your reply, thats grt, do you know toilet water tank capacity? Reason I ask is that I've done my weight sums an I'm not sure the payload between 2990kg mro and 3500kg gvm is enough if the pop top is added (which we would).thanks Joe

[@VantasticAdventures]

I think from memory it was 17 litres but not 100% sure sorry, we tend to run empty if staying on a site and fill there but wild camping fill before we travel so understand your concern - although it's a good excuse to buy another even lighter carbon MTB 😂👍

[@joemccabe3029]

@@VantasticAdventures well thats very true 😁but I think the next wheels will be a superlight ebike so need to accommodate a few more kgs on that front also

[@bgoodbourn]

Great walkthrough of the van! We put an order on for one after watching this! Originally we were going to go for an Adria Twin but the extra space and compressor fridge swung us to the 68!

[@VantasticAdventures]

Thank you glad you found it useful 🥰 The Adria is nice too but we had the same opinion when we bought our Adventure and very glad with our decision 👍 Bet you can't wait! 😁

[@martynhowe9829]

How did your purchase work out ? I Am curious

[@bgoodbourn]

@ Been good…just done 19K miles. Greece and Crete twice, Spain once and Scotland. The newer model has more solar but haven’t really had an issue…..fridge hardly uses any power and keeps beer cold even in Greece.

[@martinrollins4471]

prefer your adventure.but a very nice van .great video as well .agree with caroline on the rear .

[@VantasticAdventures]

Thanks Martin 🥰 Yes although the van is impressive, the layout isn't quite what we need at the moment but can see it being very popular 👍 Thanks for commenting and have a lovely weekend 😁

[@sccobyste]

Hi Iain just ordered an expo 68 and wondered if you can shed some light please what system does your van have is it a seargent xxx as I am thinking this one may be the same but want to order a lithium battery but need to make sure it can work with the current set up cheers Steve

[@VantasticAdventures]

Hi Steve, congratulations it's a fantastic van and has lots of interest whenever it's on show 🥰 Yes spot on, it's a Sargent unit, not sure on the exact model but will check for you when we are back to the van 👍

[@brucepeppinck9988]

👍👍👍🇦🇺campervan looking forward great 👍

[@VantasticAdventures]

Thanks Bruce, very much appreciated 😁👍

[@richardstainthorpe1342]

Really clever design, agree keeping bikes in a garage is the best way to carry them that was the main reason we bought our Delaware HB. The trays in the back are a great idea compared to the Adria Twin with the garage the Autotrail looks to be far better value.

[@VantasticAdventures]

Thanks Richard, yes agree Auto-Trail really seem to understand cyclists requirements and this layout and set up is unique for a factory build - very impressed 😁👍

[@TravellingfromScratch]

Very well presented mate. Professionally done. Even without Caroline to keep you right. Love the van and the new cab. The seats covering the battery bay are great and fixed in a much better way than the ones in my Elddis CV40. Mine are always sliding off the front. This is something I will be sorting out in a future video. I would have preferred a tambour door on the bathroom but everyone has their own preferences I know. Love everything else about the van. Looks very well thought out and well built as you say. (Except the missing tambour door for the wet room) I only stayed to the end to see Caroline and Mollie of course. My biggest question is will Caroline let you trade up? I would love one. Thanks for sharing. Already subscribed and this definitely got a thumbs up! 👍

[@VantasticAdventures]

Thank you, very much appreciated, she might let me out again now on my own 😂 The build and layout are really good, very impressed especially value for money. We did discuss getting one but it was short lived, apparently the rear lounge is non negotiable 😂 Have a great weekend, thanks for watching and taking the time to comment 😁

[@kimhawkins6027]

Great review, covered everything very well, looks a great van for the mountain bikers, or people who take a lot of gear away. We loved the Expedition 67, when we viewed it at Brownhills , and very nearly ordered one, but decided to hang on to our Devon Sundowner for another 12 months, or there might be some second hand Adventures on the market😉

[@VantasticAdventures]

Thanks Kim, that’s very kind 🥰 Yes it’s a great outdoor activities van and easy to keep everything separate from the living area. Some Adventures are starting to appear second hand but selling quickly so hopefully next year there will be a few more 😁👍

[@sturmjon]

Hi I’m really grateful for your videos and helpful hints. I think I’m going to buy an expedition 68 (whenever they’re available!). Which engine would you suggest? Regarding the pop top is it the same as the adventure - I gather yours is an SCA which is high quality, but have read one review which says the 68 had an own brand inferior one? They look the same to me. Can you remember whether the pop top mattress is sprung? Thank you again, Jon

[@VantasticAdventures]

Thank you Jon, very much appreciated 🥰 We have the 140bhp manual in our Adventure which has been absolutely fine for us even fully loaded in Scotland and Europe, it keeps up with all traffic and very comfortable at motorway speeds especially with the cruise control. We had to change down a few times in the Alps but it has been fine for us. Our pop top is an SCA which is different to the Expedition, which is one Auto-Trail built themselves and from memory, don't think it was a Sprung mattress but can't be certain. They did have one at the NEC in February so maybe again in October if you are planning to visit which might be useful. It's a great van 😁👍

[@jubear1493]

The MTB nut in me got rather excited over this van, wasn't disappointed! Superb Review Iain, good to see your excitement while reviewing it. Don't think I'd have been able to contain myself, and would have just said "Wow" and "want!" most of the time. Only thing I'd have maybe questioned Auto-Trail on, is why no zipped back cover for the bikes? (So the all important bikes, can't be seen when you have the above zipped bed window open along with the back doors, a la coffee and fresh air, in the morning.) Not sure I'd want the world looking at my mucho pricey bikes, and doing a possible recon mission. I'd much rather they just saw me and my smug grin, sipping my coffee after a great nights kip on that lovely bed. Also wondering if Auto-Trail might start offering more vans with the pop top (or as a probably VERY expensive extra.) As I can foresee anything fitted with one, being a seriously good seller.

[@VantasticAdventures]

That's a really good idea the extra cover 😃👍 it would keep everything concealed from anyone being nosey and allow you to have the back doors open when in bed if you have a nice view, like that very much. Be interesting to see if any owners make their own, "some people" treat their bikes better than their other half 😂

[@jubear1493]

@@VantasticAdventures My MTB is one of THE most expensive things I've ever owned. ( Much like my other half, whom owns me.😆) I get a fair few questions about the bike, and in gen one of them is always "How much was it?" Thankfully in the main, there asking as they tend to be other MTB nuts, or would like to become one. Others are maybe a tad more iffy when giving my bike a looksee. I can see in the eyes, them working out how nick-able it may or may not be (It's isn't, as it would have to be prized from my cold dead hands first.) I think if I was an owner of the Expedition 68, I'd at least pin a blanket up over that garage area. But a zipped in cover much like the above window, I'd have thought wouldn't be to big a deal for Auto trail to update. Plus it would aid more weatherproofing to the area too.

[@willmasmile]

Does the bed lift up to provide more space in the garage.

[@VantasticAdventures]

Hi Mike, good question yes from memory think it does although we didn't try it but pretty sure the bed could be moved for bigger loads 👍

[@C4SMT]

Great review and video, thanks. Do you know if the dinette table fitted to the non pop top model is going to be the same as the dinette table fitted to the 2021 67 non pop top? Also do you know if there will there be overcab storage on the non pop top model as per the 2021 Expedition models? We ordered a 68 a couple of months ago. Hoping to get it March/April 2022. Can't wait!

[@VantasticAdventures]

Thank you 🥰 Good questions, not sure on the table or overhead cab but will try and find out for you as it would make sense on the non pop top version - thanks will let you know what we can find out 👍 Bet you can't wait! It's a lovely van, really clever layout and very impressed with the build and finish 😁

[@C4SMT]

@@VantasticAdventures Thanks. Another couple for you if you can find out. How many rooflights will there be and positioned where on the non pop top version? Will there just be a vent in the bathroom of the non pop top or possibly a window or rooflight as per your video?

[@VantasticAdventures]

No problem, will see if we can find out for you 😁 Great questions, imagine lots of people will be looking at that too 👍

[@ruthkirby9277]

Very good review Ian. You touched on payload, do you think with the pop top, 4 people, bikes, gas bottles there would be enough left to take all your kit? If plated at 3500kg it would surely be tight. Still a great van but I’m with Caroline on preferring a rear lounge for relaxing 🙂🙂🙂

[@VantasticAdventures]

Thanks Ruth 🥰 That’s a very good question, the payload without any options is 510kg but that doesn’t include the roof. I think with the roof option and lightweight bikes or 2 adult and 2 children bikes it would be possible but not with electric bikes. Maybe an awning for additional sleeping instead of the pop top could be an option but it does give food for thought - thank you 😁👍

[@ruthkirby9277]

@@VantasticAdventures like the awning idea. Much cheaper too!!!🙂x

[@andyabwelding]

Nice video, not sure if you can help but I can't find tank capacity for fresh and grey water, any idea?

[@VantasticAdventures]

Thank you Andy 😁 They are both 70 litres, it's the same as our Adventure model and we find this usually lasts for a few days without having to top up or empty with normal use although the Expedition 68 has an extra tank for the toilet so would last longer too - thanks for watching and any other questions just let us know 👍

[@stevecollis5528]

Hi Iain & Caroline, New subscribers to the channel and loving your adventures. We currently have a converted VW T6, but just ordered a new Expedition 67, for 2022. Just wondered if the 67 will also come with the new Series 8 Ducato base vehicle? Also, do you know if the 67 will have the extendable dinette table. Very little info available at this stage with the retailers, but hopefully you are the guy who might know. Keep up the great work. Many thanks Steve

[@VantasticAdventures]

Hello Steve, welcome to our channel and thank you for subscribing 😁👍 Regarding the series 8 Ducato I think it depends on the build date and also the price, the series 8 is more expensive than the series 7. I would suggest if the dealer can't confirm drop Auto-Trail an email as they are usually very helpful and should be able to advise on your build slot. Regarding the table that's a good question, the 68 we looked at had the pop top so it has the same table as our adventures but without it could be different. We will try and find out for you and post updates to our social media as we have a list of questions from viewers we will try and answer 😁👍 Bet you can't wait! The van range is excellent, great layout and build quality we have found with ours even after plenty of use 😂

[@stevecollis5528]

@@VantasticAdventures Thanks Iain. And no - we can't wait to get going.

[@mabelsambles9118]

Good film. Ordering one of these tomorrow but without pop top. The wait for delivery is going to be a nightmare.

[@VantasticAdventures]

Ah excellent! Yes the hard part is definitely the wait but worth it 😂 Glad you liked the video, thanks for taking the time to comment 😁👍

[@ianross04]

As a matter of interest, what is the delivery time?

[@mabelsambles9118]

@@ianross04 the official delivery is Jan 29th 2022 but we've been told that the factory says there will be a six week delay. The dealer says we will get the deposit back if not delivered by March 30th. Tbh, I will wait another mo th or two if necessary.

[@ianross04]

@@mabelsambles9118 blimey! It is a good thing that you've factored in an extra couple of months - good tactics 👏 . Either way, It will be worth the wait! I only ask as i too will be buying one but have another 11 months to wait yet before I can commit to even buy! However, at least I can make good using all this time doing more research into buying my perfect van.

[@Jennifer.4]

‘Really good video, I also put a comment on instagram. Certainly glad we ordered ours before your video, I think there will be a lot more people interested in buying. Thanks for making the video, enjoying your channel, especially Molly!

[@VantasticAdventures]

Aw thank you Jennifer, that's very nice of you to say 🥰 Bet you can't wait to get it! How exciting 😁😁😁 The clever layout, design and build quality of this van is really impressive, agree it will be very much in demand when the first ones start to arrive 👍

[@bradillingworth]

Do you have yours yet?

[@Jennifer.4]

@@bradillingworth No,we have been waiting a year and one month. ,

[@Jennifer.4]

Do you have one on order?

[@bradillingworth]

@@Jennifer.4 no. After we saw this review we were ready to order one. We enquired in May when this spec was £54k, we were told it's £2k (or 2.5k) deposit, that ETA was early '23 but that the final price is not guaranteed. I wasn't willing to make that commitment without knowing what the final price will be. We've spent summer using our current van and weighing up options, but decided to buy a good base van ('16 plate L4H2 Relay Enterprise with 27k) and have a bespoke build done. It's booked in for a Reimo pop top in January and then a full conversion. Should be done by April.

[@HitchUpAndTow]

Love the van, but not keen on biking, maybe I could fit a bbq to one of the slid outs. now that would work for me LOL

[@VantasticAdventures]

Ha ha! 😂😂😂 What a brilliant idea! A slide out BBQ, imagine the size you could carry? You might have designed a whole new range of cooking campervans there 😁 Have a lovely weekend, thanks for watching 😁

[@susanandduncanmorrison2578]

Thanks. Why do you think there’s a zip cover at the back door? Surely the blinds on the back door are sufficient to keep the light out. The height of the bed will put older people off, but that’s probably not the market. Cheers

[@VantasticAdventures]

Hello, thank you and good question 😁👍 we think it's to allow the bed to fold up if required, you can fold the mattress up to give more room in the back if carrying something large, useful for using the van for multi purpose rather than just camping but not sure, hopefully will get chance to test it at some point and will check 👍

[@VantasticAdventures]

Hello again, we have an update on the rear zip cover that hopefully explains it better - the cover was to stop the bed getting wet when you’re loading the garage if its raining. This was identified and added during testing of the van apparently which is good to see as tested for its actual purpose and not just factory testing conditions 😁👍 This also means you can unzip the centre when you’re in bed if you want to see out of the rear windows and gives extra protection against the cold too at the rear of the van doors. Great question thank you 🥰

[@billcullen1850]

Nice presentation, enjoyed it. I hope the Expedition 67 that distracted you (2mins 51 sec) has my name on it seeing that I ordered mine through the dealer in March. Production date keeps getting put back as there have been delays outside Autotrail's control. I think delays have been across the board but dealers are getting their 2022 demo models in now so I'm hoping the 2021 models can be assembled soon.

[@VantasticAdventures]

Thank you Bill, that's very much appreciated 👍😁 It could well have been yours although there were quite a few moving around and in build too, it looked like production was certainly at full tilt so hopefully not too much longer. If the dealer can't get you a date it may also be worth dropping Auto-Trail an email, they are generally very helpful 👍

[@billcullen1850]

@@VantasticAdventures UNBELIEVABLY My dealer has just sent an email to inform me that my 67 has a arrived. 😊 It really could have been one you saw! Just waiting for dealer insection to give it the all clear. Hope you have many more trouble free, memorable adventures.

[@VantasticAdventures]

@@billcullen1850 ha ha that's brilliant news! Congratulations what a coincidence 😂 Thank you, hope you enjoy yours as much as we do 👍

[@scaribob549]

So which van would you choose now ? No TV and no lounge area.

[@VantasticAdventures]

Hi Rob, it's a tricky question and before we bought our Adventure would have made the process much harder. Currently though as much as the Expedition 68 is perfect for outdoors and mountain biking not sure Caroline would want to come as much so would have to say stick with the Adventure, the layout is the most important thing for us to agree on 😁👍

[@VantasticAdventures]

Sorry I meant to add you can add a TV to the expedition 68, it goes at the front in the dinnette above the 2 rear travel seats.

[@ArnoldClarke]

Does the pop up roof fully open? No virtual cockpit and Sat Nav U connect. Still the cup holders are in the wrong place.

[@VantasticAdventures]

Thanks for watching 😁 The roof doesn't zip off completely, just 2 of the 3 the windows can be opened, the other is fixed 👍 yes the cup holders are quite low for the driver, know what you mean - although the passenger one in the dash is useful if your passenger doesn't mind passing it every time you want a drink 😂

[@ArnoldClarke]

@@VantasticAdventures Thanks, what I should of wrote is can you remove the bed in the pop up so there is more roof space?

[@VantasticAdventures]

Ah no problem, yes you can remove the bed mattress but nothing else so you wouldn’t get much more storage from the space - it’s not an opening roof like on a VW California but to be honest isn’t needed as the standing space in the van is huge, we have no problems at 6ft 2. The fixed roof does give it more stability though and it feels like a proper bed up top 👍

[@stevedandy9541]

Hi Iain are you a member of the V Line Facebook group? If not I really recommend 👍👍

[@VantasticAdventures]

Hi Steve, thanks for watching and yes I am a member and highly recommend the group too 👍 it's been a brilliant group to join, everyone is so helpful and many times got me out of a fix 😂 Especially your tips for making the rear bed properly, we featured that in one of our earlier videos so thank you 😁👍

[@stevedandy9541]

I bet Caroline would appreciate some of the rear headboards, PM me and I will sort you out 👍

[@stevedandy9541]

Hi Iain I’ve sent you and Caroline a pm on messenger 👍

[@mikepalmer7687]

Great video as usual,when are you getting one?

[@VantasticAdventures]

Thanks Mike 🥰 As much we loved the van and design the layout doesn't work for Caroline so sticking with our Adventure for now 😁

[@mikepalmer7687]

@@VantasticAdventures yes i think she is right,speak soon

[@hegster1966]

So if you have no beers for a while how long till you can buy it 😁😁😁asking for a friend, ps lovely van

[@VantasticAdventures]

Ha ha 😂😂😂 Would love to say at least 10 years minimum but in reality it’s probably much much less as our beer mpg isn’t as good as the government guidelines 😂👍

[@hegster1966]

@@VantasticAdventures 😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣 mines neither

[@ianstacey3881]

Great layout just a shame its not fully winterised

[@VantasticAdventures]

Hi Ian, yes I guess the pop top comes at a compromise although we plan to travel in our Adventure throughout the winter, may need to make some mods first though. Coldest night so far was -1C last year 👍

[@ianstacey3881]

@@VantasticAdventures Thanks for the reply I was thinking more of the water tanks being insulated and heated so they don’t freeze so you can use it in proper winter conditions in the Alps - currently have a pop top and slept out in -10 had to get out and brush the 3 ft of snow off the roof as the weight was pushing the gas struts down🤣🤣

[@VantasticAdventures]

Ha ha 😂 wow that is cold! Sounds fun though 😁 There was an option for 12v heated tanks when we bought ours but not sure if it's still available, will try and find out and feature somewhere as we get into winter 👍

[@yanmills]

Hi were did you get the prices for the extras? I would like to know how much a non pop top would be with Front window blinds Second leisure battery 2 slide out trays

[@VantasticAdventures]

Hi Yan, if you go to the webpage for Auto-Trail, click the options / enhancements and scroll down to the bottom you see an option for 360 view, if you scroll to the right on this section it brings up the option for a price list to download as a PDF, this has all the option pricing available for each van - here's the link to the options / enhancements page (it looks like they increased slightly on the 3rd November after our video too but not by much): www.auto-trail.co.uk/enhancements

[@yanmills]

@@VantasticAdventures thank you For the Information

[@James1980-]

Thanks for the video. Van looks great. I’m seriously tempted to swap my California for one. One question I had is how much room there is above the bikes? I assume you didn’t measure it? I can see on the video and auto trails photos that the MTBs had dropper posts and the road bikes had their seat posts removed. I’m 6’3 so my bikes are quite tall. It’s not a big deal taking out a road seat post but I’m just wondering even with my MTB post dropped whether I’ll fit the 29er ok? What do you think? Thanks again 🙂

[@VantasticAdventures]

Hi James, good question and one we asked too actually although didn't measure it sadly that would have been useful 👍 With an XL frame and dropper post on a 29er they said it should fit without removing the seat post but without a dropper it may need to be removed. If we get chance will check this and repost an update as a great question, thank you 😁

[@VantasticAdventures]

Hi James, we were able to get more info on the sizing from your question, please see below hope it helps 👍😁 1) The height without the tray fitted is 930mm. The mounts can be bolted directly to the van floor if you did need extra height 2) With tray fitted its 900mm 3) You do have to drop the seat or remove it on a road bike 4) The mountain bikes in the video are a large 29er and an XL 27.5. both seemed to fit with room to spare so I think the length should pretty much cover every eventuality and I think no issue with road bikes as they’re much more compact. Hope this helps and thanks for your question 😁

[@James1980-]

Thanks so much for taking the time to find that out. I think my MTB should be fine. It’s a question that was inspired by getting my dropper seized in my frame this week! I do have another question for you if you don’t mind. I spoke to a dealer today who said it was an entry level campervan. A friend of mine has the 2021 adventure 65 and the dealer said that the quality wouldn’t be as good as in the adventure. That seemed strange to me as it looks like up front it’s the same seats, kitchen etc. what’s your opinion? Did the quality seem lower than your adventure 65?

[@VantasticAdventures]

No problem at all you are most welcome, it was a good question and was interested to find out too incase of any upgrades to current bikes... 😁 Regarding the quality it's very much the same. The difference in price comes mainly from the specification. For example, our Adventure has pretty much every option you could want was standard hence the price difference. Things like alloy wheels, sat nav electric step, half leather seats, the underslung gas tanks and the side awning are all as standard on the Adventure where as on the Expedition they are optional or not available. This allows you to spec the van as you want for a cheaper price but the base components are the same e.g. the fiat Ducato bit is the same, the kitchen and cabinets are the same or very similar. I would compare it like cars, it you look at the base model of a car it's cheaper, the top of the range is the same car but with more options as standard so it depends on personal preference. Nothing on the van suggested to us it was of lower quality in build, just mainly less or cheaper options. Hope that helps but if you get chance to visit one of the road shows I think the van was touring dealers so you may be able to see the quality first hand 😁👍

[@James1980-]

Thanks for your help. I ordered one today! Build date April. Very exciting!

[@paulbentley4734]

Hi there thanks for this review we off to birmingham show to look at it in person in feb as this ticks all our boxes i am going to email autotraIl to see if they would make some stock changes like remove the oven and have a microwave also what size gas bottles does the comparment take ty brill video made me want to spend 50k lol

[@VantasticAdventures]

Hi Paul, thank you and great idea with the NEC, we think the van will be very popular 😁 the 68 takes 2 x 6kg bottles so plenty for off grid adventures especially with the 12v fridge and solar panel 👍

[@thenoworriesnomad]

Iv ordered the Series 8 Ducato (Business Edition) L4H3 van to convert, the dash is slightly different and full auto air-con...

[@VantasticAdventures]

That will be an interesting conversion, one of the first possible? 😁 Be interested to see how you get on and what it looks like when finished 👍

[@thenoworriesnomad]

@@VantasticAdventures I had it fully spec’d up but because of a further delay due to a shortage of parts they gave me a free upgrade to the Business Edition so of course I said yes to that...LOL

[@paulbentley4734]

how much do you pay for a habitation checks

[@VantasticAdventures]

Hi Paul, just over £300 😁👍

[@OnTheRoadAgain-NikkiandBilly]

Think we might put our name down for one of these and then when it comes in year or so we will retire

[@VantasticAdventures]

They are excellent vans, great idea to order in advance as they waiting list is long from the feedback we had - they should have one at the NEC in February, definitely worth taking a look at the layout etc 😁👍

[@OnTheRoadAgain-NikkiandBilly]

Good idea. Can’t find one to look at anywhere yet

[@OnTheRoadAgain-NikkiandBilly]

Got free tickets to go see it on 22 at NEC. Then if everything is ok going to bung deposit down and wait for one to be built.

[@stephenthoms9139]

The extrenal windows need to be flush not sticking out

[@VantasticAdventures]

Know what you mean Stephen, they do look neater flush but think the glass is quite heavy so the plastic ones save quite a bit of weight, useful for the bike load etc especially on this van 😁👍

[@freduk5342]

Great proposition but no flush alum. windows in 2022? That's a weakness that should be addressed to compete in the market. This dated plastic windows makes it very easy to break in and to a lesser extent makes this van looking dated.

[@VantasticAdventures]

Hi Fred, thanks for watching and taking the time to comment 🥰 When we were looking to buy our van this was something we considered too and compared. Not sure if it's to do with weight saving as they are very light to give a better payload? Interesting to see what the other brand 2022 vans offer 👍

[@OnTheRoadAgain-NikkiandBilly]

I’d love this to hide the bikes. Plus save my bike putting them out of reach on rack

[@VantasticAdventures]

It's a great system, especially for expensive bikes and much less hassle than having to attach them to the outside of a van etc. 🙂👍

[@OnTheRoadAgain-NikkiandBilly]

@@VantasticAdventures think it will be one for when we decide to draw pensions and travel more full time. Just bought the omnia too after the other video. Will be doing Xmas dinner in it as away in the van.

[@VantasticAdventures]

That sounds amazing 🥰 would love to spend Christmas in our van, maybe one year! The Omnia is great, it gets better with practice too as you can adjust cooking times etc. once you get used to the heat settings on your hob. We tried at home too with the smallest ring on the lowest setting for some practice which works well 👍 Would love to see your dinner, if you get time and don't mind, share it on our social media pages - great inspiration for others 😊

[@jomo252]

Hi what size bikes can fit in the back and do you need to drop the seat and handbars

[@OnTheRoadAgain-NikkiandBilly]

@@jomo252 you need to take front wheel off. But will take big bikes

[@jfkjfk1]

Lip smacking!

[@VantasticAdventures]

Thank you 😁

[@rob20452]

Windows aren't even double glazzed so won't watch anymore 😕

[@VantasticAdventures]

Hello Robert, we can confirm the windows are double glazed in the habitation area, they look the same as our Adventure model and have the blinds and fly screens built in which is very handy 😁👍

[@rob20452]

@@VantasticAdventuresI'm can see the windows aren't double glazed by looking at them , mine are and are double glassed !

[@VantasticAdventures]

Ah see what you mean - you have glass windows like on the Adria vans? The ones on the Auto-Trail van conversions are the perspex type similar as you would see on a caravan but they definitely have 2 panes of perspex and work well for insulation, we don't get any condensation like on the cab windows 👍

[@rob20452]

@@VantasticAdventures no mine are plastic double glazed all round built by affordable van conversations check them out .🐕

[@VantasticAdventures]

Thanks Robert, will do haven't seen them before - thank you 👍😁

[@thewanderinwilds7665]

Hi Iain, did you get to do the Autotrail751 factory tour ? Would love to see the coach built vans 🚐 😀 really good video

[@VantasticAdventures]

Thank you 🥰 I was fortunate to get a sneak peek at some of the vans and coach builds too but the tours are currently not available due to Covid restrictions, will hopefully be available again soon 😁👍