Top Gear test on T7

[ThomasHJ]

2025 VW California Coast | UK Review

Going away this summer? Volkswagen has just the thing...

www.pistonheads.com

Having looked at this fairly positive review, it was just the pictures that got me. We go away for 16 nights every summer. There are 4 of us. This just wouldn’t work. Everything is tiny. If it rains, we cook inside and 4 of us eat around the table. Just look at this. How could the same people who built the California have made this new one? It is basically a weekend vehicle for two people! WTF
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I think it's not the same people. Westfalia designed the original interior (layout, etc) and after VW and Westfalia parted, VW never really changed anything serious about the layout. I'd say the T7 is the first VW California for which they did the layout themselves really. And it shows. It might be a really good vehicle for weekenders or perhaps couples, but I don't think it will suit a family of 4 going camping. But I might be proven wrong. I'm looking forward to seeing some reviews of families going away for a few weeks in one.

 

[Georgeo]

I was had a dilemma with this; I wanted a do it all vehicle I could use as a daily runner and take on camping trips.. (usually two plus a collie) often weekends, but occasionally up to a week at a time.
Having viewed the T7; To me the compromises were just too big in terms of lack of space and utilities e.g one single burner for food prep, tiny sink, less than practical indoor table and most importantly, storage space (especially if you’re an outdoor enthusiast and carrying hiking gear, biking gear, or a even paddle board).
Cost although not a deal breaker also played a part, I managed to pick up a low mileage 22 plate 4motion Ocean 6.1 for 15k less.
That all said, I don’t use the 6.1 as an everyday vehicle, it’s doable but not entirely practical or cost effective (especially in the higher powered 4motion variant) , so I still have a van and car.. again compromises.
Still can’t decide if I absolutely did the right thing, I think as an out and out camper the 6.1 definitely ticks more boxes, but in terms of everyday drivability and practicality the T7 definitely wins out.
In summary, if you can afford and have the space for a car and a van then great as you get the best of both worlds (I know people use their 6’s and 6.1’s as their only vehicle but I struggled). If not though I’d seriously consider the T7. I’m definitely not a hater and heard great reviews from some owners so it’s horses for courses for sure!

Hi, what were you struggling with as an only vehicle option? Remember the T7 is the larger vehicle.