Camper conversions are becoming more popular lately, prompting new players to enter the game. The latest example is the ABT XNH, a campervan based on the VW T6.1 with a limited production of 500 units. This alternative proposal to the VW California from the German tuner, features a sporty exterior and a well-equipped cozy interior that can sleep up to four people.
Despite the badging, ABT’s involvement is actually limited to the aerodynamics package and the wheels, since VW Commercial Vehicles undertook the camper conversion using a readymade kit from a German company called Vaning GmbH.
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Starting with the visuals, there is a new grille at the front, combined with a sportier garnish for the bumper intakes and a splitter. A similar treatment is applied on the side skirts and on the rear bumper extension with quad exhaust pipes (probably fake) on the diffuser. The gloss black 18-inch alloy wheels were designed specifically for the XNY, shod in Goodyear Eagle F1 Asymmetric 6 tires (255/45R18).
In terms of externally visible camping equipment add-ons, the ABT XNH features a pop-up roof, an optional Thule Omnistor 4200 awning that extends to 2,000 mm (78.7 inches), and an optional Thule bike rack on the tailgate that can hold up to three bicycles. Finally, the special livery features black topographical lines against an Ascot Grey shade with “Explore New Horizons” lettering.
Opening the sliding doors of the van, we come across an overhauled interior that has been transformed into a small yet beautifully arranged living space. The pop-up roof offers plenty of headroom and integrates ambient lighting for nighttime. A Reimo rear bench seat can accommodate three people, with an extra person using the rotating passenger and a foldable table/desk between them. The bench seat can fold down, making space for a comfortable double bed. A second double bed is optionally available for the pop-up roof, increasing the sleeping capacity of the van to four people.
One side of the van’s interior is covered with wooden soft-close cabinets and drawers based on an aluminum frame. The interior kitchen area has a stainless steel sink with a retractable faucet, a magnetic spice rack, an Amaret kitchen knife, and a solid oak kitchen board. Interestingly, the main kitchenette is located at the back, with a pull-out dual gas stove and plenty of storage compartments. The refrigerator with a freezer compartment will make sure that food and drinks are well preserved. The axe is for collecting firewood, allowing you to create an outdoor fireplace.
A Kookoo MoriMori LED light offers 10 hours of brightness coupled with a Bluetooth speaker, while numerous USB ports and a 230V power outlet will keep your devices charged. There are magnetic window blinds for privacy, a reading lamp, and two LED spotlights on the tailgate. Other optional features include a camping chair set, and a portable toilet by Cambee so you don’t have to run in the forest every time nature calls you.
Unlike most ABT products, the XNH doesn’t come with mechanical upgrades, retaining the stock 2.0-liter turbodiesel which produces 148 hp (110 kW / 150 PS) and is mated to a seven-speed DSG automatic. Despite the fact that this engine is also available with the 4Motion system in the T6.1, the XNH is based on a front-wheel-drive van, thus being a more road-focused proposal.
Those interested in buying an ABT XNH should know that its availability will be limited to 500 units. Production will start at VW Commercial Vehicle’s Hannover plant in May 2023. Pricing is €138,900 (equal to $148,442 at current exchange rates) for the entire vehicle, without the cost of the optional equipment, making the ABT camper much more expensive than the VW T6.1 California.
