What’s new with the Nugget? Ford’s Transit Custom camper fulfils its promise 

A new powertrain, fresh trim, and more room for activities. Has Ford under-promised and over-delivered with its 2024 Transit Custom Nugget updates?

When Ford revealed the ‘next-generation’ of Transit Custom Nugget in mid-2023, it came with a promise: that a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain would be an option in future. Well, the future is now, and the hybrid edition has arrived. But as well as honouring its oath, the blue oval brand has gone a step further; cooking up some more fresh Nugget variants.

Best of both worlds

Manufacturer backed and in-house campervans are a relatively rare breed to start with, and even PHEV vans themselves remain an elusive option in the current market. This means that the Nugget — the result of handing the UK’s best-selling van to camper conversion legends Westfalia — is joining the new 2024 Volkswagen California in an exclusive club of plug-in hybrid campervans.

Using a powertrain which draws inspiration from the PHEV Ford Kuga, which has been Europe’s best-selling plug-in for the last three years, the Nugget combines a 2.5-litre petrol engine with an 11.8 kwh battery, generating just under 230 hp. 

The American brand hasn’t disclosed the full range-boosting details just yet, but with the standard PHEV Transit Custom offering a weighted overall fuel consumption of 176.6 mpg, and a pure-electric range just shy of 35 miles — the endurance potential is clear. Although hauling a bed and kitchenette around may slightly impact these figures. 

Ford is keen to point out the benefits of going full-electric in low-emission environments, as well as being able to move in near-silence through quiet campsites and peaceful patches of nature (giving a new meaning to the term ‘stealth camper’). We also remain firm believers that PHEV campers simply seem logical, considering the plug-in procedures already followed by many a van lifer at campsites.

Getting active in the great outdoors

Ok, PHEV pledge kept. So what else has Ford been brewing? First up, a new Active trim, designed for those with a ‘passion for outdoor adventure’. 

Hopping on the gorpcore trend of functional yet stylish outdoorsy design, the Active trim adds a chunkier grille, rugged plastic rocker panels, exterior cladding, LED taillights, and a set of unique spiraled 17-inch alloys onto the Nugget’s boxy silhouette.

The expensive hiking gear-esque capabilities are also replicated inside, where hard-wearing water-resistant seat fabric has been applied. This should help in keeping the interior clean and dry after days at the beach, during surfing or kayaking trips, or if you just get caught out on rainy trails.

You can also back this style up with a touch more substance. Opt for the 168 hp diesel engine with eight-speed automatic transmission, and you’ll unlock the option to add all-wheel drive capabilities. Ideal for taking the Active trim off-grid, tackling slippery and rough surfaces en route to activities, or just coping with the UK weather as of late. 

Echoing the versatility offered by these new additions, the updated Nugget has been showcased on Goodyear rubber. We reckon a set of Vector 4Seasons Cargo tyres would make sense here, providing grip and stability rain or shine, while further boosting fuel efficiency.

A home extension, on the road

But wait, there’s more. Long-wheelbase Nugget options have been added to the range too, also available on the new Active and PHEV variants. 

Travelling chefs rejoice. LWB models offer larger kitchens, found at the rear as per the classic Nugget layout, featuring extended worktops and additional space for pots, pans, and utensils. And for when it’s time to take the apron off, you can tuck it away in the built-in wardrobe which has also seen its dimensions extended.

This extra space potentially bridges the gap between long-weekenders and van lifers, offering the comfort required for longer trips and the storage needed for additional camping gear. There’s also the option to use some of the additional room for a built-in toilet — always a welcome home comfort.

So that’s it in terms of Nugget updates for now, but what do you think? Are there any more features you would like Ford to add to its campervan? Or is it simply golden as is?

Hero image credit: Ford