It’s MMM magazine’s Motorhome of the Year, did you know? That’s the rather prestigious prize the Pilote Référence P716LPR scooped up at the start of 2013.

It’s not short of competition, from pretty much all of its rival continental manufacturers, whose similar models were introduced in 2012 and even 2011. What these vehicles do not have is any direct UK-built competition. The reason for that is, although at “floor level” this is pretty much a standard rear French bed/washroom, front lounge, mid-’van kitchen and washroom layout, it’s over that lounge that the piece de resistance is to be found.

It boasts the one item that’s proving highly popular on mainland Europe – a drop-down double bed.

The P716LPR is actually one of three new Références announced for this season with this feature – it all depends on your choice of bed at the back of the vehicle, hence there’s also the P716LGR (transverse rear double) or P736LCR (island). UK dealers and the Pilote Owners Association had the opportunity to chip with their say, too. And this is the award-winning result.

It’s also the relatively rattle-free drive that will impress. Always a sign of good overall build quality, Pilote uses a mix of polyester (ie GRP) roof and aluminium sides, with Styrofoam insulation and a unique use of aluminium joints where the sides meet the floor. It’s all on a 3500kg Fiat Ducato chassis as standard (upgrades are available).

Step inside and that lounge includes an L-shaped settee, inward-facing nearside seat and both cab seats swivelled, all around a sturdy, multi-adjustable table. There’s also a choice of upholstery alternatives to the Macaron pattern shown here.

It’s the kitchen where Pilote has made the most effort to appease UK motorcaravanners, not just with the provision of a full Thetford dual-fuel cooker, but all the other wherewithal for meal preparations indoors – right down to spice jar rack and kitchen roll holder.

Throughout, storage is very impressive, especially the under-bed area (with lights), where you’ll also find a neat fold-out linen bag (for your dirty washing?).

The overall specification is high, too, ranging from Truma’s most powerful 6EH heating and hot water system (including the facility to operate whilst on the move) to central locking to all three doors to cab air conditioning.

Criticisms? Well, the use of tungsten-bulb lighting seems rather retro. Despite its ability to seat up to five for travel, the fifth seat is rear-facing and a bit lacking in terms of head restraint, full framework etc. And that plastic kitchen tap is out of keeping with the rest of the quality.

And then there are those sleeping berths. The French bed (as designated by its cutaway section) is adjacent to the washroom, while electrical operation assures the lounge bed glides down into place with no effort required other than keeping a finger on a switch.

The secret of a good night’s sleep? Let’s just say Pilote has cracked it with the Référence P716 LPR. With prices starting at just over £50,000, it’s surely onto a winner. But, you already knew that, didn’t you?

Verdict

Attempts to appeal to British tastes make this motorhome all the more attractive

Plus: Competitively priced and well equipped. Bed comfort.

Minus: Some options should be standard

In a nutshell: Win, win, win

Cost to insure: £287.50 *

Tech spec

Pilote Référence P716LPR

• Based on Fiat Ducato, 2.3-litre, 130bhp, Euro V
• Price from £51,095
• Dimensions 7.18m L, 2.30m W, 2.85m H
• Maximum weight 3500kg
• Payload 525kg
• Key options Cruise control £193, reversing camera £401, fridge vents £80, floor carpets £281, 150bhp engine £800
• Security and safety Central locking to all doors, ABS, driver’s and passenger’s airbags, immobiliser

MPG estimate 23-26

More info Pilote (www.pilote.fr)

Alternatives: Bürstner Ixeo it 664 and 700, Rapido 776 FF, Adria Matrix 650 SF

*Motorhome insurance cost based on Pilote Reference P716 LPR retailing for £51,095. Fitted with standard security and Thatcham Cat 1 Alarm/Immobiliser. UK travel only. Kept on driveway at home at TD9 8ED. Motorhome owners – professionals over 50 years old 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 22/04/2013.

It’s the Ixeo line-up – it actually comprises three ranges: Ixeo Time, Ixeo and this, the flagship Ixeo Plus group of four – that shares one key common feature: a full size drop-down bed coming down over the lounge.

In Plus format, Ixeos come with the extra presence of alloy wheels and roof rails, as well as items like the windowed caravan door; there’s also the option (as here) of Champagne paintwork.

Truly a four-berth, but arguably with the most modern of configurations, the it724 is a low-profile coachbuilt based on Fiat’s Ducato with the added ride, handling and lower height benefits of an Al-Ko low-frame chassis extension. Stick with the 3500kg rating, however, and payload is limited, especially if you’re considering this for four-person use.

More likely, especially where UK buyers are concerned, is a vehicle like this will still be used primarily as a two-berth.

That island bed at the back is a big attraction, of course. It’s not just the comfort here, but the surroundings, with his and hers wardrobes, that space to manoeuvre around three sides of the bed itself and the en suite luxury of separate shower and toilet rooms just a step away. The latter is also home to one of Bürstner’s trademark features – a space-creating swing-out sink.

That bed is set slightly higher than some, which – in theory, at least – may make the other double bed alternative all the more attractive, especially as its electrical operation means it can be lowered to any height you wish. At its lowest setting, of course, you do lose the lounge seating, but there’s still the easiest of access to the kitchen and washroom facilities.

It’s the kitchen that’s often the Achilles heel of any imported motorhome, but this Ixeo Plus does better than most. The main unit is L-shaped on the nearside, hosting a three ring hob, with separate sink and drainer. It’s an arrangement that does mean free work surface is minimal, although plenty of folk will go for the large fridge/freezer across the galley. What you’ll also appreciate here is the sturdiness of the drawers and lockers.

Indeed, beyond the brashness, there’s no doubting the quality. You’d expect as much from a manufacturer that’s part of the Hymer Group, but Bürstner has always enjoyed a reputation for its innovation.

There’s a price premium here, of course. And you’d expect items that come as standard, such as Dometic three-burner gas hob and separate grill/oven, Dometic 160-litre fridge/freezer, Truma Combi 6 heater and blown air system operating from gas/230V, pull-up flatscreen TV holder and LED lighting throughout. All this is on top of individual touches such as the four small storage pods in the lounge – ideal if you don’t like losing remote controls etc.

There’s also an extensive list of options to choose from, should you wish to turn on the style even further.

Verdict

A motorhome of genuine pedigree

Plus: Island bed luxury. Superior build quality.

Minus: Limited kitchen space. And payload

In a nutshell: The “it” motorhome!

Cost to insure: £349.50 *

Tech spec

• Bürstner Ixeo Plus it724
• Based on Fiat Ducato with Al-Ko chassis extension, 2.3-litre, 130bhp
• Price from £66,790
• Dimensions 7.60m L x 2.30m W x 2.85m H
• Maximum weight 3500kg
• Payload 345kg
• Key options Champagne paintwork £1031
• Security and safety Central locking to all doors, ABS, driver’s and passenger’s airbags

Further reading Which Motorhome (March 2013)

MPG estimate 24-28

More info Bürstner  (www.buerstner.com)

Alternatives: Dethleffs Magic Edition 4 T DBM, Hobby Premium Drive 70 HQ, Knaus Sky Wave 700 MX, Laika Kreos X712R, Pilote Reference P736LCR, Rapido 791 FF

*Motorhome insurance cost based on Bürstner Ixeo Plus it 747 retailing for £66,790. Fitted with standard security and Caravan Guard approved tracking device. UK travel only. Kept on driveway at home at TD9 8ED. Motorhome owners – professionals over 50 years old 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 22/04/2013.

Pilote may be best known for its A-class and coachbuilt motorhomes, but last year saw it producing van conversions for the UK market, with the introduction of this, the not so snappily titled F600DGA.

It’s on Fiat’s long-wheelbase Ducato with 2.3-litre, 130bhp engine as standard, and comes with a floorplan that gives you a transverse double bed at the back, which can be folded up out of the way should you wish to transport larger items of luggage like bikes etc. There’s also a four-seater lounge comprising a half-dinette with the facility to swivel both cab seats.

Space is indeed a precious commodity in a vehicle like this, but all this still leaves room in the middle of the ‘van for a kitchen (tucked just inside the sliding door, which remains on our UK offside) and a washroom offering showering and toileting facilities, with additional space created thanks to a sliding sink arrangement.

It’s all pretty clever stuff, especially the way storage has been considered with virtually every step of this conversion. The overhead lockers, for example, aren’t just a decent size (without being too big), they’re also shelved. And there’s a “false floor” at the back to give low-level stowage space between the bed boxes.

Having said that, the provision of a 110-litre fresh water tank in the rear seat base isn’t the most logical step. True, it should mean a degree of winterisation, but it robs the interior of a big storage area.

Also, somewhat ironically, considering the French reputation for cuisine, the chef here is limited to two gas rings, with support from an 80-litre fridge and a sink (that doesn’t even get a glass lid). To be fair, continental thinking is such that cooking inside your vehicle is considered very much a last resort. And a definite plus is all the kitchen storage space this subsequently allows.

All the evidence is here for a better kind of insulation, too. Pilote uses polyethylene foam to literally line the whole interior before anything else goes in. It doesn’t just help retain heat when you want it, it also means the interior stays cooler when the sun’s out. And it helps keep some of the inevitable conversion rattles to a minimum.

Now, before you get too carried away with that “window price”, it’s worth noting some of the optional extras fitted to the vehicle here (at least some of which would be considered essential in the UK) – cab seat covers add £401, the radio and cab speakers here will relieve you of a further £313, floor carpet pieces are £281 and there’s also an upgrade to Truma’s 6EH Combi heating and hot water system, adding £3,640.

And if all of this isn’t quite upmarket enough for you, do seek out the all-silver bodied Premium Edition version, starting at £40,639, that includes all the above and more.

Verdict

Surprisingly good quality at an even more surprisingly attractive start price

Plus: Clever use of space throughout. Comfortable double bed.

Minus: Options push the price boundaries

In a nutshell: Ooh-la-la!

Cost to insure: £278.50 *

Tech spec

• Pilote F600DGA
• Based on Fiat Ducato long-wheelbase, 2.3-litre, 130bhp, Euro V
• Price from £38,040
• Dimensions 5.99m L, 2.05m W, 2.58m H
• Maximum weight 3300kg
• Payload 440kg
• Key options Silver Pack (silver exterior including colour-coded bumpers, cab air conditioning, passenger airbag, cruise control, awning light, cab seat covers, TV bracket, cab blinds) £2,599
• Security and safety Central locking to all doors, ABS, driver’s airbag, immobiliser
• MPG estimate 25-27

More info Pilote (www.pilote.fr)

Alternatives: Adria Twin SP, Rapido V53, Autocruise Alto, Tribute 669

*Motorhome insurance cost based on Pilote F600DGA retailing for £38,040. Fitted with standard security. UK travel only. Kept on driveway at home at TD9 8ED. Motorhome owners – professionals over 50 years old 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 19/03/2013.

OK, so you’ll be hard pressed to find an example without the £995 Comfort Pack option. But, considering what that brings you – cab air conditioning, electric step at the caravan door, dual-fuel heating upgrade, cab night-time blinds – it’s but a small price to pay. And you’re still well under the magical £40,000 barrier where fewer and fewer manufacturers are able to tread in these straitened times.

The two-berth 662 is one of two new layouts added to Swift’s “entry-level” (hate that term) Escape line-up for this year. The other is the end-lounge 664.

The model on review here, though, offers the one thing nearly every motorcaravanner wants – or even expects – in a vehicle today: a fixed bed.

Here, it’s the French variety, the name that signifies the cutaway shape that allows enough angle (and only just enough) for access to the washroom adjacent to the bedroom at the back of the vehicle.

That’s a popular enough layout in many a manufacturer’s portfolio, but – with the honourable exception of Elddis – nobody comes close to this Escape on price.

As for the rest of the interior, there’s a typically generous British kitchen mid-‘van before you reach the bedroom/washroom at the back. Whilst not top-of-the-range appliances, again they’re more than adequate: there’s a three-ring hob with combined oven/grill and the Dometic fridge is an 8-series model with removable freezer. There’s also a round sink with cover/chopping board and attachable drainer which means there’s a bit of work surface when you need it. Dedicated storage for crockery (drawer) and crockery (racking) hasn’t been forgotten, either.

That theme continues in the washroom, where the one-piece plastic floor gets two plugholes and the temptation not to fit a window has been resisted. Also here is a fixed sink and swivel-bowl toilet, while the shower’s trigger handle means water is saved. Other fittings here include a corner cupboard under the sink, roof locker and holders for towel, toothbrushes and mug, plus toilet roll.

There’s also something to be said for keeping it strictly two-berth – with two short settees in the lounge (and both cab seats swivelled, if needed) and a free-standing table for mealtimes.

As with all 2013 Swift group motorhomes you get a Tracker Retrieve tracking device as standard, and that will most likely lead to savings when getting insurance quotes for this motorhome.

With price comes a lot of forgiveness, too. There’s also compensation to the frill-free build with a very generous 600kg-plus payload margin and aspects such as the non-electric door mirrors.

Elsewhere, cost-saving measures include the windowless caravan door, lack of grab handle at the main entrance, unlined curtains, sprung roller blinds (rather than concertina), the upholstery may not be quite out of the top drawer… frankly there’s nothing here that could be marked as a deal breaker.

The one thing Swift Group hasn’t cut back on is the Fiat Ducato base. Actually, money is saved by not using Fiat’s specific motorhome chassis, but the engine is the trusty 2.3-litre 130bhp, six-gear unit and not the rather more modest 110bhp five-speeder. The increasingly popular Comfort-Matic auto’ transmission is also available here, as a £1,695 option.

Indeed, there are just two aspects that strike as slightly odd here – the lack of a passenger airbag (it’s not even an option) and the storage slot for the free-standing table that means you have to lift the bed to access it every time you want to retrieve it after travelling.

Verdict

The keenest of pricing for a fixed bed two-berth low-profile coachbuilt

Plus: Very well priced.  More than adequate specification. Ten-year bodywork warranty

Minus: Check double bed dimensions. And shape. No passenger airbag

In a nutshell: Budget-beater

Cost to insure: £257.50

Tech spec

• Escape 662
• Based on Fiat Ducato, 2.3-litre, 130bhp, Euro V
• Price from £36,525
• Dimensions 6.72m L, 2.24m W, 2.85m H
• Maximum weight 3500kg
• Payload 625kg
• Key options Comfort Pack £1,445
• Security and safety Central locking cab, ABS, driver’s airbag, Tracker Retrieve
• MPG estimate 22-24

More info Swift Group (www.swiftgroup.co.uk)

Alternatives: Elddis Autoquest 155, Roller Team Auto Roller 694

*Motorhome insurance cost based on Swift Escape 662 retailing for £36,525. Fitted with standard security. UK travel only. Kept on driveway at home at TD9 8ED. Motorhome owners – professionals over 50 years old 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 19/03/2013.

Launched at the Caravan and Camping Spring Show held at Birmingham last month it’s based on the award winning Nissan NV 200 Combi and has the benefits of being able to accommodate four people, by day or night; the flexibility of a family car, desirable fuel economy and environmentally friendly.

The interior is a frosted steel colour scheme for the furniture, lockers and seats. The rotating front seats are a registered design, designed in-house by the Lunar design team. In the compact kitchen you’ll find a neat fridge, a mini-oven and grill, a three-burner hob and a dinky sink.

The innovative sleep system, is also Patent Pending, was commissioned by the Lunar design team and made in Lancashire. It’s a unique system that doesn’t take long to make up or dismantle and there are no fussy or bulky cushions to wrestle with either!  Kids will love sleeping under the stars in the roof bed in the pop-up roof with canvas sides.

You don’t get a washroom in a vehicle this size, but if you opt for the Sport pack upgrade (£999.00) you’ll get up rated upholstery, a Porta Potti, TV/satellite 12V facility, an external mains socket and carpets. The Luxury pack, you’ll need to add £1499 to the purchase price, replaces the upholstery with leather upholstery, includes the other options mentioned and adds Nissan vehicle side rails.  Retailer fit options include water and space heating systems.

Also available soon are a dedicated Vacanza trailer and a bespoke tailgate awning.

The Lunar Vacanza will appear on dealer forecourts in mid-March with demonstrator vehicles available for test drives and the retailer network will be developed over the coming months.  The vehicle has European Whole Vehicle Type Approval and has been fully crash tested but the thermal insulation level has not yet been determined.

Verdict

It’s certainly contemporary and has, for its size, heaps of storage. It’s the spirit of adventure, ideal as a leisure day vehicle if you want to pop out for days out all year round and have the luxury of a mobile picnic table and chairs. Yet it’s suitable for the occasional one night sleep over when perhaps you’ve got family or friends to see that can’t accommodate you or you want to rock up at a festival. Yet it is certainly compact enough and practical enough to be a family car.

Cost to insure: £257.50

Factfile

• Recommended Retail Price from £29,995 including VAT @ 20% (An additional charge of £995 will be added to cover the cost of delivery to the dealer in Great Britain, number plates, 12 months road fund licence and first registration fee.)

• Berths: 4
• Number of belted travel seats: 4
• Length; 4400mm overall
• Overall width; 2011mm with mirrors
• Overall height; 1960mm
• MTPLM; 1997kgs
• MRO; 1675kgs
• Gross vehicle weight; 2000kgs
• User payload; 84kgs

For more information visit: www.lunarcaravans.co.uk

*Motorhome insurance cost based on Lunar Vacanza Camper Car retailing for £29,995. Fitted with standard security. UK travel only. Kept on driveway at home at TD9 8ED. Motorhome owners – professionals over 50 years old 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 19/03/2013.

Swift Group knows it’s on to a good thing with Autocruise. Its van conversion brand tops the sales charts in this sector of the market, thanks to the efforts of its Rhythm models in a variety of guises (standard, budget-priced Sport and shorter Compact), with support from Jazz, Accent and Quartet. Of course, having nearly 50 UK retailers – more than any other brand – helps, too.

Well, it’s taken things a step further – almost literally – this season with the announcement of the largest Autocruise high-top yet. Here’s the Forte, which takes Peugeot’s extra-long wheelbase Boxer as its start point. Or, if you want automatic transmission, your Forte can be made on Fiat’s Ducato.

The width and height are no issue, but this is one long vehicle, by van conversion norms. It’s just under 6.4m, or just a couple of inches shy of 21ft, if you prefer.

And yet, it feels just like any other Boxer-based motorcaravan to drive. There’s plenty of oomph from the 130bhp engine, and you’re barely aware of being in a vehicle that’s a bit longer than your normal van conversion.

Some of this is because the wheelbase (ie centre of front wheels to centre of the back) is exactly the same as its more standard long wheelbase brother, at 4.04m

It’s all down to the extra overhang beyond the rear wheels. And such is the design, with a twin settee lounge here – any extra weight at the very back is going to be minimal.

As for the rest of the layout, there’s a generous kitchen and more than acceptable washroom ‘amidships, whilst up front there’s a second lounge area that’s created by swivelling both front seats to face the half-dinette that also provides safe travel for a further two passengers.

The latter definitely adds to the Forte’s appeal. Even if you don’t intend touring with four up, it’s that facility to carry passengers during its more everyday ventures that is the bonus.

As we’ve come to expect from any Swift Group product, it’s a crisp and modern interior design – with quality upholstery and a rather neat all-ivory finish for the locker doors, all of which have positive catches.

With that bit of extra space to play with, Autocruise has certainly come up trumps with the type of kitchen you’d expect in a UK-built coachbuilt, although not necessary in a van conversion. There’s a full cooker here, and good worktop space (although a drainer isn’t included in any form), with the fridge set opposite at a convenient height well above floor level.

Adjacent to the fridge, the washroom is never going to be the largest, but the facilities are there for showering, toileting and washing – and, while the fixed sink will be applauded by some, others may feel it intrudes a bit too much into the shower area.

Even making the beds is pretty straightforward. They’re both transverse, and therefore confined by the base vehicle’s dimensions. There’s always the opportunity to leave the rear made up as a permanent double, if there’s just two of you on board.

Heating and hot water are from Truma’s latest Combi 2, which should cope with most weather conditions. There’s also extra 3M Thinsulate in all Autocruises these days – offering not just better insulation but also extra sound-deadening qualities.

Even with a typically generous starting specification, it’s unlikely you’ll encounter a Forte without the £1,445 options pack. But, considering the extra kit it gives you, it’s well worth it – cruise control, cab air conditioning, microwave oven, reversing sensors, front foglights, dashboard trim etc. And it’ll pay dividends at trade-in time. Plus don’t forget the reversing sensors will get you a discount when it comes to getting quotes for motorhome insurance.

Autocruise has certainly moved a stage ahead of its nearest mainstream rivals with the Forte. It’s over to you, the paying customers now, to see if it’s made the right move. Certainly, the indications from the start-of-the-season shows are sounding pretty positive. It could be a long (but good) season…

Verdict

If you want a full-on four-berth, without going as far as a coachbuilt, this is it

Plus: Full four-berth accommodation – in a van! Peugeot and Fiat base vehicle options. Two double beds

Minus: Watch your payload

In a nutshell: Super-sized!

Cost to insure: £262.50*

Tech spec

• Autocruise Forte
• Based on Peugeot Boxer, 2.2-litre, 130bhp, Euro V
• Price from £45,230
• Dimensions 6.36m L, 2.05m W, 2.72m H
• Maximum weight 3500kg
• Payload 380kg
• Key options Comfort Pack £1,445
• Security and safety Central locking to all doors, ABS, driver’s and passenger’s airbags, reversing sensors (Comfort Pack option)
• Further reading MMM (May 2013)
• MPG estimate 22-25
• More info Swift Group (www.swiftgroup.co.uk)
• Alternatives: IH Tio RL, Adria Twin SLX, Globecar Familyscout, Murvi Morocco XL

*Motorhome insurance cost based on 2013 Autocruise Forte £45,230 fitted with standard fit immobiliser system and Tracker retrieve tracking system. UK travel only. Kept on driveway at home at TD9 8ED. Motorhome owners – professionals over 50 years old 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 13/02/2013.

German manufacturer Bürstner has certainly made its presence felt here in the UK – not least for its A-class vehicles, of which it sells more than you might think.

There’s much to admire about any A-class, of course, for many the representation of the ultimate motorhome. But, the price differential between A-class and low-profiles (their nearest coachbuilt equivalent) is getting smaller, especially now with the advent of drop-down beds.

Prices might seem high, but vehicles like this are for those that take their motorhomes seriously. And, by A-class standards, we’re talking lower end here. Not that you’d know it by looking at this.

There are six models in the current Aviano line-up, but Bürstner offers much more than that in terms of A-class alone – there’s the “budget” Viseo range that sits below Aviano, plus Elegance and, new for this season, Grand Panorama. A quick tot up sees that Bürstner alone offers 20 different A-class models, all available for UK buyers.

For this Aviano, the base is provided by Fiat’s Ducato (in cowl format, as opposed to a full chassis-cab) allied to an Al-Ko chassis extension. In reality, it’s no longer, taller or wider than any other coachbuilt motorhome – it’s the front end that gives an A-class like this its distinctive, and sometimes intimidating, look. Step inside, though, and you’ll see the extra dimensions it gives the whole living area, not forgetting the great views out you enjoy while you’re travelling.

This Aviano is by no means the shortest A-class you’ll get, but it does allow for what is an increasingly popular floorplan for any motorhome – what amounts to a full bedroom at the back, complete with island bed and his ‘n hers wardrobes.

The optional Design Pack features here – offering alloy wheels, one-piece caravan door with window and that distinctive Opale paintwork – adding £1,830 to the bottom line. Typically also, items like a cab door (either side, or both) can only be ordered at extra cost.

What do you get for your A-class money? That large lounge, for starters, here comprising the swivelled cab seats (from Aguti), and L-shaped settee and a small inward-facing seat – with those large cab windows and Heki rooflight overhead adding to the spacious feel.

As a full four-berth, there’s some advantage to having the beds at either end of the vehicle, although it’s the island double that will be seen as the main sleeping area, complete with separate en suite toilet and shower facilities.

There’s the equally comfortable double up front, which takes the minimum of making: just tilt the cab seats out of the way and pull down the bed section.

That said, the kitchen – despite boasting kits such as the whopping 160-litre fridge/freezer – is obviously less of a priority, with little in the way of worktop despite its stylish appearance and excellent storage and items such as a three-burner hob and separate oven/grill.

It’s all very swish and new-tech throughout, but manages to stop short of outright bling, with features such as LED lighting, clever catches for locker doors, curves to the furniture, just that bit of extra thought (and style) going into things like taps, upholstery and more. And, of course, it’s all backed up by a typically Germanic solid construction. Do note, the Noisette furniture finish here is a £331 extra.

There’s actually also considerable choice when it comes to the soft furnishings.

Apart from the switch to right-hand drive for the steering wheel, there’s no concession to the UK here (as indeed with any A-class), although once on site there really are no hardships. UK-made alternatives? None, at the time of writing.

Verdict 

A motorhome of genuine pedigree.

Plus: Island bed luxury. Superior build quality.

 Minus: Limited kitchen space

In a nutshell: Grand

Cost to insure: £418.50*

Tech spec

• Bürstner Aviano i727
• Based on Fiat Ducato, 2.3-litre, 130bhp, Euro V
• Price from £67,170
• Dimensions 7.56m L x 2.30m W x 2.75m H
• Maximum weight 3500kg
• Payload 385kg
• Key options Design Pack £1,830,
• Security and safety Central locking to all doors, ABS, driver’s and passenger’s airbags
• Further reading Which Motorhome (March 2013)
• MPG estimate 22-24
• More info Bürstner (www.buerstner.com)
• Alternatives: Rapido 991dF, Pilote Explorateur G741LCE, Knaus Sky i 700 LX

*Motorhome insurance cost based on 2013 Bürstner Aviano i727 £67,170 fitted with standard fit immobiliser system and an approved tracking system. UK travel only. Kept on driveway at home at TD9 8ED. Motorhome owners – professionals over 50 years old 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 13/02/2013.

How do you make a popular high-top van conversion even more attractive? You take stuff out. Not quite literally, but in the case of Auto-Sleepers’ venerable Symbol, where there was a keenness to keep prices down but offer just as much as before when the 2013 version of one of its most successful models was introduced.

And the first impression offers just one hint. Gone is the GRP roof. Instead, latest models use the same medium-wheelbase Boxer, but with Peugeot’s own high-roof – not as shapely, perhaps, but representing a significant cost saving.

The other cutback is not so obvious, but inside the latest Symbols no longer have the flat floor throughout that was often cited as a key reason to buy compared to any potential rivals. It means there’s a slight step up into the cab…

What has become a classic floorplan remains – behind the driver there’s an inward-facing settee (great for enjoying the views from when you’re parked up with the side door open), with a single rear travel set opposite; to the back there’s a generous kitchen along the offside and compact washroom nearside; all of which leaves space for access (and goods carrying) via the twin rear doors).

Another slightly unusual offering is one you will do well to spot – all Symbols come with extra leaf springs for the rear suspension. In Auto-Sleepers’ own words, this stops the “slap” you associate with the rather hard ride of the standard Boxer base vehicle. Just to make the ride that bit more comfortable again, you get Al-Ko’s Airtop suspension aid with any Symbol that also includes the optional Premium Pack.

Yes, it’s hard to imagine any new Symbol coming without this selection of goodies that extends to exterior fittings such as the wind-out awning, alloy wheels, colour-coded front bumper with LED running lights, awning, reversing camera, external gas barbecue, reversing camera and mud flaps.

There’s more. Inside, the Premium Pack continues with cab air conditioning and cruise control.

There are plenty of more subtle changes throughout, too. Like the additional mains socket that means you can use certain items outside under the awning, the almost imperceptibly softer foam for the lounge seating, the crockery set in a soft bag, etc etc.

It still leaves a fair bit of choice. For example, you can have any of four metallic paint finishes, at no extra cost (in addition to the plain white of the model featured here). And there are five upholsteries available. Plus, there’s every chance an alternative two-tone wood finish for the furniture might be offered.

There are plenty of other features to admire here, too. The underslung gas tank is a great example – not just freeing up valuable locker space but also meaning your gas refills cost considerably less.

When it comes to bedmaking, you’ll need to be ready with your tape measure. The easiest set-up is two single beds, but be warned – although the longer one stretches to 6ft 5in, the shorter one is just that, at 5ft 8in. You could always make a double, which comes in at 5ft11in x 5ft 8in.

Something of a joy (especially by van conversion standards), the kitchen is fully specified (right up to a microwave oven) and the washroom – admittedly not large – is just about adequate for emergencies, ie when the campsite facilities aren’t quite up to expectations).

Prices? A “realistic” £47,495, which would include that Premium Pack, means it doesn’t come cheap. But, aside from a well-made all-round vehicle you’ll be getting one that wants for almost nothing in terms of specification… and is already set to maintain an Auto-Sleeper theme of maintaining its price better than all of its rivals.

Verdict

Plenty of improvements here to keep this popular model ahead of the game

Plus: Highly equipped. Premium Pack. Longer term residuals.

Minus: Short offside bed

In-a-nutshell: Symbol-ic!

Cost to insure: £257.50*

Tech Spec

• Autosleeper Symbol
• Based on Peugeot Boxer, 2.2-litre, 130bhp, Euro V
• Price from £44,995
• Dimensions 5.42m L, 2.26m W, 2.61m H
• Maximum weight 3300kg
• Payload 404kg
• Key options Premium Pack £2,500
• Security and safety Central locking to all doors, ABS, driver’s and passenger’s airbags, Al-Ko Airtop and additional rear leaf springs
• Further reading Which Motorhome (November 2012)
• MPG estimate 28-32
• More info Auto-Sleepers (www.auto-sleepers.co.uk)
• Alternatives: Autocruise Rhythm Compact, Vantage Med, Murvi Pimento

*Motorhome insurance cost based on 2013 Autocruise Symbol £44,995 fitted with standard fit immobiliser system and additional Thatcham Category 1 approved alarm system. UK travel only. Kept on driveway at home at TD9 8ED. Motorhome owners – professionals over 50 years old 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

Who’d have thought it would be a French company that would give us here in the UK an A-class motorhome based on Germany’s Mercedes Sprinter – with a starting price of less than £60,000?

To put that last figure into some perspective, that’s something of a bargain if you’re talking brand new A-class vehicles – the particular type of motorhome that’s effectively a wheel caravan body added to a chassis cowl (rather than a chassis-cab).

It’s all a lot more complex than that, of course, but the gist is you really are getting a vehicle that lives up to the motorhome moniker.

In particular it’s in the cab zone that you’ll see the major differences – great views out for those in the front seats, a certain king/queen-of-the-road feel as you travel, far more lounge space when you’re parked up with those same seats swivelled, and a full double bed that simply drops down into position when you want it.

That’s all here in this Rapido, of course. Plus it boasts another ready-to-go double at the back, where the rear area is home to an island (aka Queen) bed.

But, yes, first impressions are indeed immediately drawn to that familiar three-pointed star on the front grille. And then the price tag. It’s all looking rather favourable.

In truth, despite improvements of late, the Mercedes Sprinter offers a softer ride to its most obvious rival, Fiat’s Ducato. There’s also a bit more “lean” when cornering. There’s no complaints about performance, though, with some 163bhp on tap..

There’s no holding back as far as build quality is concerned, either. The bodywork is GRP-clad, a material that’s gradually finding favour over more traditional aluminium (which tends to dent so easily) whilst, inside, the cabinetwork is very impressive.

It’s the £399 2013 Pack 8M that eases you over the £60,000 barrier. But frankly, it’s worth it – giving you a passenger airbag, cruise control, electric mirrors, CD/radio with MP3 connection, kitchen extractor and the facility to use the main heating system whilst travelling (great for keeping the living quarters warm for your arrival on site) – not least because, individually, these items could have otherwise added well over £2,500.

As ever, there’s a pretty extensive options list, including plenty of different upholsteries.

There is, as you may have guessed, some fairly obvious paring back as far as kit is concerned on the standard offering. The window blinds are low-rent sprung items, rather than superior concertina versions. The cab seat bases have trimwork that’s simply held on by Velcro. The kitchen isn’t the most extensive, despite being L-shaped. And the head restraint for rear-seat passengers doesn’t seem the most robust.

There’s plenty to like here, however. Washing facilities include a separate shower cubicle and a truly excellent toilet room that’s also home to generous storage as well as the usual swivel-bowl toilet and (slightly more unusually) a circular sink in steel.

The beds are, of course, a might draw, with a choice of those two doubles meaning you could use this Rapido as a full four-berth or, more likely, for couples who’d happily have a large, comfy bed each.

There’s plenty of other opportunities to pack everything away, too, including generous underbed storage in the GRP-lined area accessible from exterior hatches either side or by hinging up the bed itself.

Verdict

Very well-made model with the bonus of Mercedes underpinnings and a class-leading price

Plus: Keenly priced. Quality bodywork.

Minus: Short on standard specification.

In-a-nutshell: Value-able

Price from: £59,700

Cost to insure: £337.50*

Fact file 

• Rapido 891M, based on Mercedes Sprinter 316CDI, 2.2-litre, 163bhp, Euro V
• Dimensions 7.52m L, 2.35m W, 2.82m H
• Maximum weight 3880kg
• Payload 750kg
• Key options 2013 Pack 8M £399, corner steadies £90, automatic transmission £2330, heated waste water tank £210, box for third battery £120, flyscreen door £230
• Security and safety Remote central locking to cab door, ABS, driver’s airbag
• Further reading Which Motorhome January 2013
• MPG estimate 26-28
• More info Rapido (www.rapido.fr)

*Insurance premium for this motorhome based on 2013 Rapido 891M, £59,700. Fitted with Manufacturer’s Immobiliser and Caravan Guard approved tracking device. Kept on driveway at home at TD9 8ED. Insured & spouse, 50 years old, professionals, with no claims, convictions or health conditions in last 5 years. 5 years transferred NCD, 5 years motorhome driving experience. Members of motorhome club doing less than 5000 miles annually. European insurance cover for motorhome costs extra – please call for quote. European Breakdown is £43 extra. Premium includes Insurance Premium Tax (IPT) at 6% and is correct as of 15.12.12.

Island beds are great. Space to three sides and supremely comfortable. But, how to squeeze one into a motorhome without literally going to great lengths?

Auto-Trail has the answer in this latest addition to its Tracker line-up. Considering there really is something for everyone in the Auto-Trail portfolio – with its choices of alternative seating plans and rooflines for nearly every model – it’s amazing the company has found something new for 2013. But here it is, and it’s the biggest (longest) Tracker yet, as well as being the most expensive. All £50,000-plus and 25ft (less an inch) of it.

The key feature is indeed the island bed, set at the back of the vehicle but, somewhat uniquely, it’s fitted transversely. Now, officially that fixed bed is only 6ft 2in long, and with rounded edges of course. However, it’s a simple enough job to pull the mattress forward for a few extra (vital?) inches, although of course this does restrict movement around the bed itself.

Better still, the alignment and reclining backrest feature means you can sit up fully and view the world beyond via the windows opposite and to your left. Or the Heki rooflight overhead. Or watch TV. It’s all pre-wired for one here; you just need to add your own bracket and flatscreen monitor.

Not that this Tracker lacks in terms of latest entertainment technology.

The Media Pack may be an option, but not a single Auto-Trail has been built without one since it was introduced some three years ago. To be brief, for an extra £999 on top of the vehicle price quoted here it gives you a 15in TV screen (mounted above the cab for viewing from the lounge) with Freeview receiver and a double-DIN CD/radio/DVD with sat nav. If you want more, investigate the Media Plus Pack, with its satellite possibilities.

Because this is very much a British-built motorhome, it gets the kind of full kitchen we expect here in the UK. That means a full cooker, plus microwave, large fridge-freezer, sink with drainer (OK, it’s not the largest, but there is one), and no stinting on storage or worktop space. Extra lighting (indeed, throughout the whole vehicle) really does help to highlight everything here

The comfort continues to the lounge, with its two short settees and a choice of round table (for coffee time) or free-standing table foe meals.

Storage is another aspect where this Tracker excels, although the facility to lift the frame for internal access to underbed area would have been the icing on this cake.

As it is, there are lockers in abundance, including exterior-access, although it does lack the cantilevered low-level outside locker that’s sported by so many motorhomes.

Back inside, it’s strange to see a Truma heater here. Most vehicles these days opt for a combined blown air system with hot water tank, all tucked away in a seat base. Auto-Trail reckons its customers still like to see a fire front. The big bonus here is, as the latest model, the rattles have been completely extinguished and the control knobs have a much more positive feel to them. Indeed, Auto-Trail has been working hard – and to great effect – on reducing the unwanted noises you so often get with coachbuilt motorhomes, whether it’s from fitted equipment or just to do with body mountings and bodywork creaks.

Here’s a vehicle that’s well in keeping with Auto-Trail’s long-held reputation for producing luxury on four (sometimes six) wheels. It’s a very stylish newcomer and – at the start of the 2013 season – has very few obvious rivals. Indeed, the alternatives listed below are about as close as you’ll get, so far.

Also remember that at this value of over £50,000 Caravanm Guard would require you to fit extra motorhome security, the insurance quote below is based on the customer fitting a Thatcham Category  1 approved Alarm system.

Verdict

Comfort-loving couples who want a good night’s sleep? Look no further

Plus: Superb equipment levels and lighting. Comfortable throughout. Excellent washroom. Interesting new floorplan

Minus: Some early bed issues. Shower not ideal for taller folk

In-a-nut-shell: Blissful

Cost to insure: £302.50*

Fact file

• Auto-trail tracker RB, based on Fiat Ducato maxi, 2.3-litre, 130bhp, euro v
• Price from £50,820
• Dimensions 7.60m l, 2.35m w, 3.03m h
• Maximum weight 4250kg
• Payload 770kg
• Key options media pack £999, media plus pack £1,799, sport line £599
• Security and safety central locking to all doors, abs, driver’s and passenger’s airbags
• Further reading n/a
• MPG estimate 28-32
• More info auto-trail (www.autotrail.co.uk)

*Insurance premium for this motorhome based on Auto-trail Tracker RB, £50,820. Fitted with Manufacturer’s Immobiliser and Thatcham Cat 1 Alarm system. Kept on driveway at home at TD9 8ED. Insured & spouse, 50 years old, professionals, with no claims, convictions or health conditions in last 5 years. 5 years transferred NCD, 5 years motorhome driving experience. Members of motorhome club doing less than 5000 miles annually. European insurance cover for motorhome costs extra – please call for quote. European Breakdown is £43 extra. Premium includes Insurance Premium Tax (IPT) at 6% and is correct as of 20.11.12.