EVERY New California T7 (Ocean, Coast, Beach and more!)

[@ll4095]

I was excited at first but the lack of bench seat in the back (and therefore no big storage drawer) and no internal table (which we use a lot in the UK 🌨️!) is a huge downside for me. Plus the split of the burners with one at the front and one at the back. Just doesn’t seem like a camper - more a day trip/overnight van which I think is what they’re aiming it towards. A bit like a more functional LR Discovery for going to watch the kids do sports all day.

[@ll4095]

P.s. your vids as always Chris are top notch. Thank you.

[@CaliforniaChris]

Just to clarify, there wouldn't be one hob at the front and one at the back, these were different models. So the Beach has the cooker at the back (no front cooker) and the Coast/Ocean has the internal hob (none at the rear).

[@ll4095]

@@CaliforniaChrisAh thanks so much for correcting that. I’m definitely looking forward to taking a look in real life - obvs lots to check out - hopefully will be able to pop up to your showroom Chris! Thanks, Lucy.

[@Maximius38]

smaller kitchen, less storage, less boot, etc etc... in reality, there is absolutely nothing good or better in this T7 than the oldest one!!!

[@aramasyarijanian4227]

@@Maximius38 but it has 2 sliding doors !

[@chris_camper]

Hi Chris,im Chris Camper and i really like this presentation of the all new T7.

[@CaliforniaChris]

Glad you like it!

[@markhall3323]

I am now even happier to own my 6.1 Ocean 4Motion

[@DM_Laf]

Why? What is better on 6.1?

[@pete1927]

where does the gas go then? Great video Chris considering you have to do it on the fly.

[@chris_camper]

nice videogreetings from Chris Camper from Germany

[@georges5183]

Thanks for your time and nice walk through Chris. Waiting for long for updates of the T7 Cali since VW UK released it. They said price to be confirmed in later summer but we are in autumn now still no update. I’m interested in the beach but not the orange version. Prefer 7 seaters with two beds configuration. Noticed you say the 6 seats version beach may not be available in the UK, do you think a 7 seater version will be available based on your experience with VW commercial UK? I’m not keen on cooking inside and more prefer the space available for mobile gas stove and other staffs. Thanks Chris🎉

[@GlynHodgson]

Great news looking forward to the Beach, coming to New Zealand

[@GlynHodgson]

Thanks Chris, the beach probably won’t come to NZ, can get the 6.1 beach in Aussie, as it has the two side doors, they don’t get the Ocean but we in NZ only get the Ocean 🥹

[@hcKz]

Was there any mention of the fuel tank capacity for the different motors (ehybrid, diesel, tsi)?

[@captainbluebeard981]

I was very much enthused by the T7 Concept but not so much by the apparent release version. EG all electric would appeal to me. The delay in information makes me wonder if more changes are being made or are they concentrating on LHD's for the Euro market? I was hoping to see one at the NEC but I cannot see a VW stand on the plan?

[@CaliforniaChris]

This is pretty standard for how they release information for their new models.

[@neilparker2535]

Love the look of the T7 but totally a backward step ! No internal table ,only 1 gas ring ,Toilet won’t fit when the bed is down. , far less storage not counting the bag in the window cutting out your view and light ,bed looks narrower and that’s all I can see in the video !! I wanted to love it to replace my T6 but don’t think that will happen . Poor Chris love his channel but he works for VW so can only like it 😩

[@CaliforniaChris]

I like it as a DIFFERENT vehicle, but I love the Transporter one because it's bigger. Don't get me wrong, I'd choose a Transporter one over a Multivan (I just bought a Beach T6.1!)

[@rubymouse6904]

I think it feels very dark and claustrophobic. I know people can resist change but as soon as I saw the 6.1 I wanted one so badly. This not so much.

[@DM_Laf]

In my opinion the Cali is much better Camper in every aspect then T6. The only ting that this car misses, it will probably be upgraded in 1-2 years, are solar panels and Induction Hob instead of gas ring - many campers already have this. The new Cali have a same headroom and its 30 cm longer. The upper bead is longer also. The new California feels bigger inside, believe me, I have try it in Slovenia!

[@JonTaylor-c6z]

I can't help but think that this latest California range has been designed by the accountants at VW Commercials rather than anyone who actually goes camping! All of the interior style and innovation that made the previous T5 to T6.1 California's so unique and special has been confined to the past. As with most of the other comments. I to believe VW have gone backwards in coming-up with a successor to the T6.1. Furthermore, I like so many other VW California owners will not be looking to replace my T6.1. Surf with something that is so inferior and clearly 'Not fit for purpose' - Namely, going camping in! Ps. Nice video though Chris. Its just a shame you're going to be flogging a dead horse.

[@CaliforniaChris]

We've got loads of people looking at this for daily driver + weekend camping. Definitely a different demographic for this one.

[@67MJH]

@@CaliforniaChris I'm sure the Van converters will turn the new van into something that suits everyone. Good that VW is leaving this area of the market to camper 😄professionals

[@drumnbass8]

Great video, well presented Chris

[@CaliforniaChris]

Thanks 👍

[@draisine1609]

Have they removed the electric hob from the concept van?

[@CaliforniaChris]

It does seem that way - I don't know if it'll be an optional extra, or was just a concept that didn't make the cut, sadly.

[@97catalunya]

Informative video thanks Chris. As a new Grand 680 owner I am pleased to see the changes are only minimal 😉 but one question, I have been on the German configurator and I can’t see a solar option? Is that just a glitch on the website or is it no longer an option? If that’s the case that’s a huge oversight from VW?

[@CaliforniaChris]

I'm not clear on the German configurator sorry (based in a UK dealership).

[@97catalunya]

@@CaliforniaChris Sure I understand, I was looking out of curiosity as obviously the U.K. configurator is not yet available.

[@suzannedibble1772]

I really liked all the fancy features in the concept that they seem to have done away with…

[@CuratesEggVan]

Thanks for the tour Chris. My question is, where does the gas bottle fit?

[@CaliforniaChris]

Good question!

[@DM_Laf]

It fits behind water tank. Not easiest aces, but not too complicated either. In my opinion the gas ring is obsolete, the Induction Hob is future and the place for the gas bottle used for batteries...both for safety reasons and practicality

[@claussalt4140]

For the T7 Calif, does the rear section of the bed come up to a “reading position” or just horizontal only?

[@CaliforniaChris]

Unclear at the moment, sorry. There were some things we couldn't do.

[@andywaller3100]

Will be interesting to see how quick the after market accessories adapt their various items to support the new Cali. Accessing the new boot looks particularly problematic as it looks narrower but longer - a SpaceMate might help with this but will it be worth them re-tooling? Only time will tell I guess.

[@CaliforniaChris]

I suppose it depends what you want to store under there. You can (somewhat) access the under-bed storage from the side doors (both sides). I'd have to take one out for a weekend to see how I would manage the storage. Future video!

[@andywaller3100]

@@CaliforniaChris but I wouldn’t consider it as a storage area if it’s only created when the seats are folded down. There will also be a definite need for after-market toppers as the downstairs bed is reliant on a solid board in the fold out mattress, which means the only cushioning will be the inch or so of foam on top of the base.

[@seanfallon4580]

Its probably the same as the T6.1 , you still need a mattress topper for it

[@CaliforniaChris]

Definitely, but from what I could tell, the new padding was as comfortable as the Comfort Mattress, if not more comfortable.

[@jamiep61]

Thank you for filming the Video, great 👍 to see all the California Models on display

[@CaliforniaChris]

You're welcome! I enjoyed it too haha.

[@peterhook8033]

How was the height under the tail gate on the Ocean ? Was it the same as the Coast ? You indicated you would check it earlier in the video.

[@CaliforniaChris]

Sorry! Yes, it was identical to the others, so seemed fine! I think the one I'd seen previously had the height set to be lower by whoever used it before me.

[@icare7151]

Diesel engines are a must for the USA 🇺🇸 market.

[@robertdon777]

Bed looks very very narrow? any dimensions given?

[@CaliforniaChris]

It's narrower than the T6.1 model, for sure.

[@keithpilborough3881]

This is a classic design by cost, being involved with product design in my career it used to be based on a concept, customer feedback etc this is how not to. Ask customers who have had VW’s up to the 6.1 and ask for feedback, improvements, nice to have etc. I’m looking at this and thinking lets look at the weather forecast before we go out anywhere, its just not versatile, I’ve only the Beach camper 2 seat bench version but its a load carrier, awning, BBQ,mat, walking boots, bike bits and still space available. Sit in it and make a cuppa, keep warm. This looks cramped. Our drawer under the seat is full, great storage. The window bag is a positive, all available via a German company. This may attract new VW owners but I can’t see current owners jumping up and down.

[@CaliforniaChris]

Ask customers who are weekend campers only what they want instead of a Transporter-based Campervan and it might look something like this. I see your point, but surely it works both ways?

[@keithpilborough3881]

@@CaliforniaChris I agree it does work both ways, it’s probably because it’s a significant redesign which will take getting used to. Products do have to evolve, normally renaming covers this.

[@maxineantoniou4744]

Any update on the uk release of these?

[@CaliforniaChris]

More details very soon!

[@luisfaustino]

Lovely video Chris, very informative. Q1: What’s the pop up roof adding in max height difference to a standard Multivan? Q2 What’s the comfort heating working off, diesel?

[@CaliforniaChris]

Great questions. Unsure at the moment! Can't wait to get one to do a Q&A on it.

[@Van_Diesel_vw]

Will a Porta potti 335 fit in the boot, does not look much room to put it inside at night when bed is down, perhaps in front of fridge, but does not look to be room between bed and front seats.

[@CaliforniaChris]

Good question, I can get measurements when we have them on-site with us in the UK.

[@raeldor]

Why don't you think the Beach Tour is coming to the UK? That's the one I was waiting for! Can the drawer, grille and table in the Beach be turned around to pull out INSIDE the vehicle? Or taken out competely?

[@CaliforniaChris]

I work in a dealership and have heard nothing about the Tour coming to the UK, which seems to indicate that it won't be available here (at least for a long while). I could be wrong! Unsure on your other questions, sorry!

[@timfoster506]

@@CaliforniaChris When is the Cali going to be open to orders?

[@ackmartin60]

I think the commentator who said VW has lost the plot said it perfectly, Only one hob, narrower beds, less storage,

[@CaliforniaChris]

Different demographic.

[@ackmartin60]

@@CaliforniaChris What demographic is it aimed at exactly? What is the point of two beds that aren't wide enough for two people to sleep on each one? Where is the van for the existing demographic that has been buying and you have been selling the T6 and T6.1 to for many years.

[@ectpotter]

Great video. Love the look of the new platform. Does the table on the Coast/Ocean really only open outside rather than into the saloon?

[@CaliforniaChris]

From what I can tell, it does seem that way, but I haven't had a chance to try out everything.

[@robertschnobert9090]

The Beach Tour has a bed. What you call Beach Tour is actually the Beach I believe

[@CaliforniaChris]

The Beach Tour in this video does have a bed in the pop up roof.

[@geoffloveday6140]

Any further news on the Beach news hinted at here?? 🤔

[@CaliforniaChris]

Not yet!

[@bootsmcfoolish8499]

Is there an all wheel drive version..?

[@CaliforniaChris]

Yep! The Ocean at the show was a 4Motion eHybrid.

[@davidhoddell2861]

Very disappointing change. The storage seems significantly less than the 6.1. Single burner hob would be very frustrating. I can't see where your pots and pans go let alone any food storage. The area under the bed and the boot seems less deep than the 6.1. The overall length has gone up, which is inconvenient in this country. (Won't fit on my drive) I can only think VW are looking to go into a different demographic, I'd describe it as a day camper rather than a campervan to go camping or touring in. Definitely not for me.

[@CaliforniaChris]

I think you're right about the new demographic. It will be interesting to see if they introduce something in between the Multivan size and the Crafter size campervans (although I'm told they won't be doing a campervan in the new Transporter). Time will tell.

[@dannyheyrman4848]

@@CaliforniaChris vw said the same thing on the multivan/t7

[@vanessagardiner7663]

Thank you - such a clear video and great to see the new California range.

[@CaliforniaChris]

Glad you liked it! Wish I could've spent more time with all of them. Not long until they're in the UK and I can spend time with each one individually.

[@brandycat8513]

Massive prices, little wonder there's so many self-conversion single man vans running around.

[@CaliforniaChris]

I'm sure VW don't mind as they sell vans, too!

[@brandycat8513]

@@CaliforniaChris Some are but a lot are

[@peterrose9886]

The wheels on the Grand Cali look like the Lismores painted black🤷🏼‍♂️

[@CaliforniaChris]

Fair shout. It had been a long day! Haha.

[@Familytripyoutube]

Come on…. The cupboards under the sink on the t6 were huge. Here there is the fridge. A lot of space missing on the t7 california

[@CaliforniaChris]

I mean, where the fridge used to be there is now cupboard space 🤷‍♂️

[@andywalsh6686]

I got really annoyed with the overuse of the word 'obviously', especially since nothing was obvious. I counted thirty times before I got bored of counting.

[@CaliforniaChris]

Sorry :). Presenting isn't my career, I just do this to bring you the latest news.

[@andywalsh6686]

@@CaliforniaChris I'm sure it's one of those things you do that you were unaware of, so I thought I'd point it out so you can be mindful of it in the future.

[@CaliforniaChris]

I'm aware of it, and we edit out as much as we can :).

[@TvanBoven]

The california ocean unfortunately still has the same layout. Little bit of a redesign but nothing really new. The Ford Nuggets layout is so much more practical… especially the plus with the toilet. Can’t believe VW still uses the same boring layout.

[@AlamAhmad-ur8sq]

Ford make them now

[@CaliforniaChris]

The new Transporter is the Ford collab, but this new California is based on the Multivan (an all-VW design and build).

[@robertdon777]

They used to make the layout on VW's too but Westfalia were the designers so guessing they have issues with VW copying the layout as VW ditched Westfalia and went in-house with the T5 Cali. So if you look at VW T4 California Exclusive you'll see where the Nuggett etc get their layout from.

[@HiruS22]

Westfalia made the Club Joker/City based on the T6 and 6.1 (I had one and loved it), will be interesting to see if they switch to the T7 for this or move to the Transitporter. Quite probably the latter as it would mean the Club Joker and Nugget versions could use exactly the same tooling, so the two vans could end up identical other than the badge and minor marque specific styling differences.

[@petermurphy994]

Nice look chris but sadly as I have said no bench seat no sliding table everything that made this iconic camper loved by millions is gone by all means update it but the compromises are to much very sad.

[@CaliforniaChris]

It's definitely going to be a different vehicle. The different base model size (Multivan Vs Transporter) limits what they can do. I agree that there are compromises that some won't like.

[@skeetermegamoto]

Curious name since tragically, you cannot get any of these models in California or anywhere else in the US. Yet anyway.

[@CaliforniaChris]

It's definitely a cruel irony!

[@DM_Laf]

In my opinion this is much better Camper then T6. The only ting that this car misses, it will probably be upgraded in 1-2 years, are solar panels and Induction Hob instead of gas ring.

[@julianharding6614]

You'll never be able to run an induction hob off a battery and PV, any hob just pulls way to much wattage.

[@jonmortermusic]

VW have hugely dropped the ball here. So many backward steps on this T7 compared to the T6.1

[@rubymouse6904]

Well. I can't see this as an upgrade; very disappointing in so many ways.

[@CaliforniaChris]

I don't think it's trying to be the next Transporter California. It's a whole new camper. Most people are viewing it as a Weekender.

[@ronnieforbes2606]

You are so correct.. Poor design.. Thought they could have come up with really great camper..Keep my T6.1

[@OM-PeaceE]

VW California … bring it to US MARKET

[@pt712]

Nowhere near the T6.1. You guys have missed the number of T6.1 on the camp sites around Europe. This vehicle has lost the plot. 😂

[@CaliforniaChris]

The used T6.1 market is going to be buzzing for a while, we think!

[@RyanForrest1664]

A horrible horrible vehicle. T6.1 all the way

[@robertschnobert9090]

T2 was the last good one actually. The one I have is the best. Your T6.1 is disgusting haha 🌈

[@Maximius38]

VW RUINED THE CALIFORNIA!!! there is nothing good or better in this T7 VS the old T6.1... double open doors lol, it's good for working vehicule, city vehicule, not for a camper!!!

[@CaliforniaChris]

I would view this as a Weekender. If the Grand Cali is too big, there's always the T6.1 used market.

[@Maximius38]

@@CaliforniaChris The 6.1 is a smaller vehicle, with a larger bad, more storage, bigger boot, bigger kitchen, a real table, etc etc... I wonder in your test for this T7 where u'll put a single real size pan :)

[@MrSnicol]

It appears you love absolutely everything VW does, both past, present and future.

[@CaliforniaChris]

You are correct!

[@AlamAhmad-ur8sq]

Its a shame what's happening i love my 6.1 but the T7 that is the future. But not for me plus its a ford

[@ll4095]

The transporters will be ford base, but not these Californias - they’ve stayed in house with VW based on the multivan.

[@CaliforniaChris]

Correct! The new Transporter (not the T7) is the Ford collab. The Multivan (T7) is the base for these Californias. There are no plans to make a California based on the new Transporter. Only other plans from what is shown in my video is an ID Buzz California which is due next year.

[@mickybrennan3489]

Not impressed.

[@CaliforniaChris]

Fair enough!