2013 Devon Aztec motorhome review: a refreshingly uncomplicated ‘van

It might seem a bit ironic that a manufacturer going by the name of Devon is actually based in County Durham, but there are reasons.

The company’s roots do indeed go back to the earliest of days and a southwest England start (Sidmouth, 1956, to be strictly accurate). But, it was taken over by the current owner in the early 1990’s and has continued to make and sell direct a full range of van conversions on a variety of base vehicles ever since.

Indeed, there are also a couple of Devon agents – Todds of Preston for the North West, and Dolphin Motorhomes in the south. That’s England, of course – direct sales from that County Durham base presumably covers all other regions.

Devon’s Aztec comes in two formats – long and medium-wheelbase, using Fiat’s Ducato, a vehicle that’s still very much the one to beat when it comes to high-top conversions.

If you like your lounges, it’s the long-wheelbase featured here that’s for you. And while you’re at it, factor in the extra £1,500 for the Designer Pack (cab air conditioning, cruise control, passenger airbag, parking sensors, leather steering wheel and gear knob, mud flaps, special wheel trims) and maybe the metallic paint (a further £418), directional aerial (£299) and electric step £396 – they all feature here.

As standard, however, this is a two-berth offering a sleeping choice of two single beds or a double at the back and a more than generous kitchen just inside the sliding door.

It’s certainly rare to find a full cooker (featuring four gas rings and separate oven and grill) in a van conversion, even of a size like this, while another bonus for the chef is the worktop extensions available at both ends of the kitchen unit itself. There’s a good variety of storage in here, too, despite losing out on overhead lockers.

At the back, the lounge offers U-shaped seating during the day, on superior foam and top quality upholstery (there’s a choice of designs for the latter), with added comfort from scatter cushions and bolsters. The central section can also be removed altogether should you prefer twin settees, while the main base sections are particularly easy to convert to a doubled bed.

You can also swivel both cab seats for a mini lounge at the front, where Devon has provided a warm air outlet and some worktop space over the fridge – two of many thoughtful touches throughout.

In comparison to the kitchen and lounge, the washroom doesn’t seem to be quite as far up the list of priorities here, playing safe with a traditional look, equipment and feel.

Even with the specification additions noted at the top, the Aztec is sensible rather than sparkling. That’s a judgement rather than a criticism, as it’s actually rather refreshing to find a motorhome that keeps the bling at bay.

It’s also very competitively priced in a sector of the motorhome market that’s particularly well represented – but what do you think? Share your comments below. 

Verdict: Sensible, straightforward approach to a comfortable two-berth layout
Plus: Full kitchen, comfy lounge and bed arrangements
Minus: Basic washroom
In a nutshell: Does everything well…and frill-free

Cost to insure: £257.50* 

In summary

• Based on Fiat Ducato, 2.3-litre, 130bhp, Euro V
• Dimensions 5.99m L x 2.05m W x 2.59m H
• Maximum weight 3500kg
• Payload 902kg
• Key options:  Designer Pack £1,500, metallic paint £418, directional TV aerial £299, electric step £396
• Security and safety Central locking to all doors, ABS, driver’s and passenger’s airbags
• MPG estimate 28-32
• Recommended retail price from £41,448**

Find more information on Devon Conversions or visit our motorhome insurance discounts page to see where you could save on your premium.

Alternatives: Autocruise Rhythm, Vantage Sol, WildAx Aurora

*Motorhome insurance cost based on Devon Aztec retailing at £41,448 fitted with parking sensor and CAT 1 Alarm. UK travel only. Kept on driveway at home at TD9 8ED. Motorhome owner is a teacher with no claims, convictions or health conditions in last 3 years. 4 years no claims bonus mirrored from car policy and 2 years motorhome driving experience. Members of motorhome club doing less than 5000 miles annually. £300 excess applies. Quote correct as of 15/07/13.

**On-the-road, including VAT at 20%, but excluding delivery, installation and any other costs as determined by the manufacturer, distributor, dealer or park owner. Please check the price carefully before you buy as it can vary considerably dependent on many factors including the geographical location of your chosen park.