The Ford Nugget Plus is one of the few compact campervans that offers a built-in toilet without becoming impractical for everyday driving. For travelers looking for a vehicle between 5 and 6 metres long, with the ability to camp independently and a fixed sleeping area, it is one of the best compromises on the market. Its three key advantages are the extended LWB body (with an overall length of
around 5.34 m), the built-in Thetford cassette toilet and dual sliding doors, which make access easier regardless of which side you park on. The vehicle is based on the Ford Transit Custom, which is serviced by most authorised Ford workshops in Slovenia.
Before deciding to buy, it makes sense to try the vehicle first. Campervan offers Ford Nugget Plus rental from Ljubljana, allowing you to experience it on Slovenian roads before making a larger investment.
- Long-wheelbase version with built-in toilet: The standard Nugget does not have one. The Plus version adds a toilet without compromising the sleeping area.
- Dual sliding doors: Access from either the left or right side is particularly useful in tight parking spaces and campsites.
- Westfalia conversion on a Ford platform: A proven combination of reliability and functional interior design.
Key findings
The Ford Nugget Plus is a practical and reliable compact campervan with a built-in cassette toilet, which the standard Nugget does not have. It is particularly well suited to couples and small families travelling around Slovenia and Europe.
| Point |
Details |
| Key difference from the standard Nugget |
The LWB body, around 5.34 m long, makes it possible to fit a built-in Thetford cassette toilet. |
| Driving characteristics |
The updated independent rear suspension improves comfort on mountain roads. |
| Water tank capacity |
Around 33 litres of fresh water and 30 litres of waste water require some planning when camping off-grid. |
| Storage compromise |
The fixed toilet reduces some of the available luggage space, making smart packing important. |
| Campervan rental |
The Ford Nugget Plus is available to rent from Ljubljana, with insurance and 24/7 assistance included. |
For in-depth tests and long-term user experiences, the following sources are useful:
- Practical Motorhome: A detailed test covering the Westfalia conversion and comparing it with other compact campervans.
- The Caravan Club: A comprehensive review covering the cassette toilet and reference prices for test vehicles.
- Out & About Live: A practical overview of the living area, kitchen and dual sliding doors.
- Parkers: An assessment of the Transit Custom platform in terms of reliability and materials.
- Nugget Diaries (wereviewcars.co.uk): A long-term user diary offering real-world experience of everyday use.
Table of contents
How is the Ford Nugget Plus built and what does it mean in practice?
The foundation is the Ford Transit Custom, which
Parkers describes as a solid platform with a good service network, although its interior materials do not reach the level of the most expensive competitors in the segment. This is a fair assessment. The furniture and trim are functional rather than luxurious. The surfaces are easy to clean, which is actually an advantage in a campervan compared with softer or heavily textured materials.
Westfalia has been responsible for campervan conversions for decades, and this experience shows in the quality of the installation. The furniture is securely mounted, water connections are well protected and the cabinets feel solid. Nevertheless, it is worth checking the following when collecting the vehicle:
- Window and pop-top roof seals: Look for signs of moisture or uneven gaps.
- Kitchen fittings: Gently move the worktop and check that the fittings and screws are secure.
- Water connections under the sink: Check that the pipes show no signs of leakage.
- Pop-top roof fabric: Cracks or stains may indicate poor maintenance.
The interior surfaces consist mainly of laminate panels and medium-quality plastic. They withstand normal use well, but can be sensitive to sharp objects. Cleaning is straightforward: a damp cloth is sufficient for most marks. Practical Motorhome notes that the Westfalia conversion achieves a balance between living comfort and driving dynamics that is unusual for a vehicle of this size.
Expert tip: When collecting the vehicle, always check that all furniture fittings are secure. Westfalia’s installation quality is good, but after extended transport or use, an occasional screw can become slightly loose.
How does the Ford Nugget Plus drive on Slovenian roads?
Behind the wheel, the Nugget Plus feels more like a van than a passenger car, which is exactly what you would expect. The driving position is high and visibility is good, although manoeuvring through narrow streets takes some getting used to. Anyone who has driven a commercial van will adapt quickly.
Tests from 2025 confirm that the updated platform with independent rear suspension significantly improves driving refinement compared with previous generations. On the mountain roads that are so common in Slovenia, this translates into less bouncing and better control when changing direction quickly.
The engine range includes diesel powertrains that are economical for longer motorway journeys while providing sufficient performance for mountain passes. Fuel consumption depends on the load and terrain, but with a fully loaded LWB version, expect slightly higher consumption than with the standard Nugget.
When it comes to parking, the roof height in its lowered position is
around 2.06–2.09 m, while the vehicle is 5.34 m long. This means that some underground car parks in Ljubljana and Maribor are inaccessible. Always check the height restriction before entering a garage.
During a test drive, check:
- Braking under full load: Load the vehicle and test braking on a level road.
- Rear visibility: The reversing camera is useful, but check that it works correctly in different lighting conditions.
- Parking sensors: Test them in a tight parking space.
- Suspension on uneven surfaces: Drive over a few bumps and assess how the vehicle responds.
How do the living area and L-shaped kitchen work?
The rear L-shaped kitchen is one of the smarter design choices in the Nugget Plus. The kitchen is separated from the sleeping area, so you do not have to stand in the middle of the living space while preparing food. The worktop is at a comfortable height for an adult, and access from both sides makes it easier for two people to prepare food at the same time.
Out & About Live highlights how the rear kitchen and sliding doors on both sides increase flexibility when parking and camping. In practice, this is noticeable: if you park next to a tree or wall, you can enter through the opposite door and access the kitchen immediately.
The refrigerator capacity is suitable for a two- to three-day supply of food. For longer trips, you will need to plan for additional shopping stops. The cooking area has two burners, which is sufficient for most simple meals. The limitation is preparation space: when preparing larger meals, the worktop can quickly become crowded.
Storage is organised in cabinets above and below the kitchen and in the space beneath the rear seat. There is enough room for a short weekend trip. For a two-week journey with two people, however, careful packing is essential.
Expert tip: Pack in soft bags rather than hard suitcases. Soft bags adapt to the available space and are easier to store under the seats or inside the cabinets.
How comfortable is sleeping in the Ford Nugget Plus?
The Nugget Plus offers two sleeping areas: an upper bed in the pop-top roof and a lower bed created by converting the rear bench seat. The upper bed is designed for two people and is well ventilated in normal weather conditions. The lower bed is somewhat narrower and requires the seats to be converted, which takes a few minutes.
The dimensions of the pop-top bed are suitable for an adult couple, although taller individuals (over 185 cm) may notice the limitation in length. The mattress is relatively thin, so some users add a thin mattress topper for improved sleeping comfort.
Practical tips for setting up the beds:
- Pop-top bed: Raising the roof takes less than a minute, but the fabric must be folded carefully. Incorrect folding can damage the fabric, according to the Caravan Club, so it is worth getting a practical demonstration during vehicle collection.
- Lower bed: Converting the seats takes around 3–5 minutes and requires some physical effort to move the cushions.
For better sleep while camping:
- Ventilate the vehicle before going to bed, especially during summer.
- Use thermal curtains or window blinds to reduce heat loss in winter and overheating in summer.
- Earplugs or white noise can help at busier or noisier campsites.
How does the cassette toilet work and what systems are fitted in the Plus version?
The built-in Thetford cassette toilet is the feature that most clearly distinguishes the Nugget Plus from the standard model. The toilet is located at the rear of the vehicle, while the cassette can be accessed from outside. Emptying it is straightforward: remove the cassette, carry it to a designated disposal point and empty it. The process usually takes 5–10 minutes.
| System |
Specification |
Practical note |
| Fresh water |
Around 33 L |
Enough for 2–3 days with economical use |
| Waste water |
Around 30 L |
May need emptying every other day with regular use |
| Heating |
Gas/diesel heater, depending on configuration |
Programmable and designed to operate while driving |
| Cassette toilet |
Thetford |
Cassette accessible from outside the vehicle |
| Hot water |
Boiler, depending on configuration |
Limited capacity, so water should be used efficiently |
The heating system also performs reliably in temperatures below freezing, which is particularly relevant for winter travel in Slovenia. A programmable thermostat allows you to set the desired temperature before entering the vehicle. During longer off-grid trips, planning your water supply is essential: limited tank capacities require more frequent refilling when camping independently without access to fresh water.
The fixed toilet is a genuine advantage when travelling without access to campsites with sanitary facilities. Privacy is adequate, although the space is compact. For emergencies and nighttime use, the toilet is extremely convenient. At the same time, Out & About Live points out that the toilet occupies part of the available luggage space, making careful packing important.
Expert tip: Before setting off on a longer trip, always check the cassette level and make sure you have enough toilet chemicals. Thetford toilet chemicals are widely available at campsites and camping shops in Slovenia.
Ford Nugget Plus technical specifications at a glance
For Slovenian drivers with a Category B driving licence, the key consideration is the vehicle’s maximum permitted mass. Vehicles up to 3,500 kg can be driven with a Category B licence. Check the exact MAM/GVW figure when collecting the vehicle, as it can vary depending on equipment and configuration.
Practical tips when collecting the vehicle:
- Ask for the actual unladen weight of the vehicle and calculate the available payload.
- Check whether the vehicle is registered as a passenger vehicle or motorhome, as this may affect tolls and parking regulations.
- A height of 2.06–2.09 m means that some underground car parks are inaccessible. Check height restrictions before entering.
How much does the Ford Nugget Plus cost and how can you rent one in Slovenia?
The purchase price of the Nugget Plus in Europe places it in the higher end of the compact campervan market. The Caravan Club has reported test vehicle prices of between £73,000 and £79,000 in previous reviews, providing a useful reference for the UK market. Prices in Slovenia and the wider European market are comparable, although they vary according to equipment and engine specification.
For anyone unsure about buying, renting is a logical first step. The advantages of renting include:
- Lower initial investment: Try the vehicle without a long-term financial commitment.
- Real-world test kilometres: Find out whether the length, height and interior layout suit your travel style.
- No maintenance worries: Servicing and insurance are included in the rental.
When booking a Ford Nugget Plus from Campervan, it is worth considering the following:
- When to book: For the summer season (June–August), booking at least 2–3 months in advance is recommended.
- Additional costs: Check the insurance conditions, security deposit and any charges for additional equipment.
- Mandatory equipment: A warning triangle, reflective vests and a first-aid kit are legally required in most European countries.
For a more detailed overview of seasonal prices and availability, see our guide to
summer campervan rental.
Our experience renting the Nugget Plus from Campervan
At Campervan, we have collected and returned the Nugget Plus numerous times, giving us a clear understanding of what works well and where potential issues can arise. The vehicle handover process is structured: we check the pressure switches, lights, cassette, seals and connections. We pay particular attention to the pop-top roof because the fabric is sensitive and can be damaged if it is folded incorrectly.
Customers who have rented the Nugget Plus from us most frequently praise:
- Comfort on longer journeys through Slovenia, Croatia and Austria.
- The practicality of the fixed toilet when camping without sanitary facilities.
- The dual sliding doors, which make access easier in tight parking spaces.
Nugget Diaries, a long-term user diary, also reports a high level of reliability on longer journeys, with occasional minor issues such as rattles and software glitches. This is consistent with our experience: we have not recorded any major breakdowns during our rentals.
Local tips for travelling in Slovenia:
- Popular destinations: The Soča Valley, Lake Bohinj, Logar Valley and the Karst region are ideal for the Nugget Plus. The roads are accessible and campsites offer suitable facilities.
- Parking in cities: Ljubljana and Maribor have height restrictions in some car parks. We recommend using open-air parking where possible.
- Service network: Ford has authorised service centres in major Slovenian cities, meaning you are not dependent on specialist campervan workshops if a problem occurs.
Expert tip: For planning stops and finding campsites in Slovenia and neighbouring countries, camping apps can be useful. They show free and paid overnight stops together with ratings and practical information.
Who do we recommend the Ford Nugget Plus to and what are the compromises?
The Ford Nugget Plus is a campervan designed for a specific type of traveller. It is not for everyone, but for the right buyer or renter, it is difficult to find a better alternative in this size category.
Advantages:
- Built-in cassette toilet, which the standard Nugget does not have.
- Dual sliding doors for easier access.
- Reliable Ford platform with a good service network in Slovenia.
- Westfalia conversion with high-quality installation.
- A practical length for most European campsites and roads.
Compromises:
- Interior materials are not at a premium level.
- The fixed toilet reduces luggage and storage space.
- The 5.34 m length and 2.06–2.09 m height limit access to some car parks and garages.
- The approximately 33-litre fresh-water capacity requires planning during longer off-grid trips.
We recommend the Nugget Plus for:
- Couples travelling longer distances who value a fixed toilet and separate kitchen area.
- Small families with one child who need two separate sleeping areas.
- Travellers without regular access to campsites with sanitary facilities, for whom a fixed toilet is an important advantage.
Those who prioritise maximum compactness and easier parking may prefer the standard Nugget without the fixed toilet. For a comparison with other models, see
Ford Nugget vs VW California.
In short: if you need a fixed toilet and the 5.34 m length is not an issue, the Nugget Plus is one of the strongest choices in the compact campervan segment.
Why the Nugget Plus is not for everyone, but almost ideal for the right traveller
The Nugget Plus is often compared with the VW California, but this comparison misses the main point. The California is more like a passenger car that can be transformed into a campervan. The Nugget Plus is a campervan that drives like a van. It is a different philosophy and provides a different driving experience.
What really convinces us about the Nugget Plus is the practicality of its design. Westfalia did not try to create a luxury living space inside a van. Instead, it created a functional space that works. The kitchen is where you need it. The toilet is where you need it. The bed can be prepared without unnecessary effort.
The interior materials are not what you might expect from a vehicle at this price point. That is a fair criticism. But after a week on the road, you realise that plastic trim does not make your morning coffee overlooking Triglav any less enjoyable. The robust Ford platform and dependable drivetrain are what really matter when you are covering 500 km in a day.
For Slovenian travellers who want to experience the campervan lifestyle without making a long-term commitment, renting the Nugget Plus from Campervan is a logical place to start.
Try the Ford Nugget Plus with a rental from Ljubljana
Campervan offers Ford Nugget Plus rental directly from Ljubljana, meaning you can be on your way towards the Soča Valley, Lake Bohinj or Austria within around 30 minutes of collecting the vehicle.
The rental includes basic insurance, 24/7 assistance and an introductory demonstration of the vehicle, including the pop-top roof and cassette toilet. Weekend packages, weekly rentals and monthly bookings are available. Every rental also includes advice on routes and destinations across Slovenia, the Balkans and the Alps.
To make a reservation or check availability, visit the
Ford Nugget Plus rental page or the
Campervan homepage, where you can find all available models and rental dates.
Sources
Recommended
