Today’s RV review is of the 2025 Ford Transit Custom Nugget Camper Van, a smaller pop-top van-style camper and, sadly, you can’t have one. Well, I assume you can’t. Why? These are available only in Europe at the moment. While I bet they’d sell like hotcakes over here, there seems to be no plans to bring them across the pond.
Bummer, dude.
The all-new Transit Custom Nugget is now available to order (over there) with the flexible plug-in hybrid and all-wheel drive powertrain options. Those were promised when the next generation camper was first unveiled last summer in Titanium specification with a tilt roof, and diesel engine with eight-speed automatic transmission.
The expanded all-new Transit Custom Nugget lineup—developed in partnership with leading camper converter Westfalia—was on display to the public for the first time at the Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf, Germany, in September 2024.
You might remember Westfalia. They’re the ones who made the VW camper conversions. They’re still around—you just don’t see them here on these shores.
The interior of the Ford Transit Custom Nugget
The interior of the Ford Transit Custom Nugget features durable, water-resistant seat fabric designed to help keep the interior dry and comfortable after a day of kayaking or beach fun. Advanced driving technology also boosts comfort on the move: a Driver Assistance Pack as standard adds Pre-Collision Assist, Reverse Brake Assist, and Blind Spot Information System for additional security on the highway and when maneuvering. There is also Adaptive Cruise Control—also featuring Stop-and-Go for automatic models.
Ford’s Smart Camper Touchscreen provides centralized control and monitoring of the camper’s functions including lighting, heating, water levels, and more when parked at an overnight or activity location.
Like the Titanium model, Transit Custom Nugget Active can be specified with an optional all-wheel-drive system for the diesel engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This combination provides superior traction on rough and slippery surfaces, helping drivers reach remote locations for camping and outdoor activities. Transit Custom Nugget Active also offers up a bit of towing capacity for hauling equipment, including boat trailers.
More space enhances home-from-home experience
A new longer wheelbase version of the Transit Custom Nugget is available for both Titanium and Active variants and with the full range of powertrains. Developed for additional comfort on extended trips, the more spacious model builds on the popular multi-zone unique interior layout that sets Nugget apart in its segment.
It delivers a larger kitchen area with more worktop space for food preparation as well as enhanced storage for pans and utensils. On the other side of the living area, storage capacity is increased with a larger built-in wardrobe to help keep the interior calm and clutter-free. Adventurers who enjoy off-grid stays will also be able to specify an alternative longer-wheelbase interior layout that includes a built-in toilet.
Both standard- and longer-wheelbase variants offer features including an integrated stovetop and sink unit, complemented by a standard water heater. The interior also features heated swivel front seats for added comfort, a practical drawer fridge for efficient storage, and wider beds with optional lower bed heating. In addition, the multifunctional Smart Camper Touchscreen system is equipped with an inclinometer to help level the vehicle when parking on uneven ground.
My thoughts on the Ford Transit Custom Nugget
I don’t know why vehicle manufacturers don’t offer something like this in the U.S., but perhaps they prefer passing off these things to third-party builders as Mercedes-Benz does with the Revel, which we looked at yesterday. I don’t know.
However, I do think something that could easily be a very efficient daily driver, a practical work vehicle, and a camper with the backing of an actual car company would sell well. Ford states that more than 10,000 of these were sold in the first year on the shorter chassis and has higher hopes for this larger version.
As someone who has followed the auto industry in the U.S. for some time, I honestly think the U.S. auto industry has just lost its edge. There was a time when they would build things like the Pontiac Aztek, which was admittedly as ugly as an inbred warthog, but which at least wasn’t the same boring thing as everything else on the road.
Oh, well. I like seeing these European RVs now and then, and hope you do as well.
MORE LIKE THIS:
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More about these RV reviews
Tony comes to RVtravel.com having worked at an RV dealership and been a lifelong RV enthusiast. He also has written the syndicated Curbside column about cars.
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Don’t forget to add the AMC Pacer to the “ugliest car contest”, Tony!
If memory serves, it took VW years before they brought their Westfalia to the US, too. But then, look how many years it to took for US car manufactures to adopt disc brakes, independent rear suspensions, and fuel injection that were common in European cars.
I like the concept of the Ford Connect Westfalia mainly because European Fords are built for American-size adults. The Japanese camper conversions of these microvan platforms are far too small inside to be practical in the US. Which is likely why they aren’t imported here.
I’m not sure if the Pacer is ugly or cute – sort of like those snack-sized dogs that look like they ran into the sliding glass door. But I know I want one! But, then, I love Corvairs too.
Speaking of 1970s AMCs did you know that they offered a camper kit in a Hornet hatchback? I guess that was to compete with the camper kit for the Chevy Nova hatchback. Car camping at its finest.
Thank you for the review, Tony! I wonder if someone could setup an import business, paying military people based in Europe to order these and have them shipped to the US when their assignment ends and they return to the US? It is an intriguing vehicle, but more for road trips than RVing. Have a great week and safe travels!