2016 Auto-Sleepers Warwick XL review: A super, stretched Warwick

For our review of the new 2022 Auto-Sleeper Burford please click here

Better than a standard Warwick (now dubbed Duo)? This XL variant makes a strong case. It’s got longer beds, a relocated kitchen, which is on the nearside and just inside the sliding door – a more logical position, arguably and a bigger washroom, with space for a separate shower cubicle. And yet, it’s just over a third of a metre lengthier overall (37cm, to be precise).

The base remains the same, otherwise. It’s Peugeot’s Boxer, with the more powerful version of the 2.2-litre engine now the starting point, although if you want automatic transmission Auto-Sleepers can now accommodate this by switching to a Fiat Ducato base.

Warwick XL is one of six Peugeot-based high-tops from Auto-Sleepers for 2016, lining up alongside two other models using the extra-long Boxer – Kemerton XL and Kingham. That 6.36m is quite some length, but all the extra is in the tail overhang – not that you’d notice any handling differences when driving. Parking, too, will see more ingenuous drivers looking for spaces they can reverse into where they can slip beyond the kerb without any further inconvenience.

As with all Auto-Sleepers these days, the Premium Pack adds £2,500 but is otherwise standard-fit. That’s what gives you the alloy wheels, cab air conditioning, cruise control, Omnistor awning, reversing camera, daytime running lights, Al-Ko Air Top suspension etc.

There’s also the just as desirable Winter Pack – fresh and waste water tank heater blankets, concertina cab blinds (instead of curtains), upgrade to Truma’s Combi 6 heating and hot water system and wheel arch insulation.

Auto-Sleepers also differs from all it rivals in two key base vehicle aspects. It orders its Peugeot Boxers with an extra rear leaf spring which, in conjunction with Al-Ko’s adjustable suspension addition, really does offer a superior, more forgiving ride. And, those tinted side and rear windows are athermic single-glazed glass. Most of these are fixed, but there’s ventilation from the large sunroof above the lounge and two rooflights further forward, not forgetting the facility to open any of the doors once you’re parked up on site.

It’s an end lounge floorplan that remains a favourite here in the UK, with two extra-long inward-facing settees and a choice of two different sized tables.

The sleeping arrangements work best as twin singles, too, at 1.92m x 0.70m. If you want to go on and complete the double, it’s 1.92m x 1.87m. Because of the mattresses’ main function as seating, it’s a firm and highly durable reflex foam but if you want softer bedding support consider investing in mattress toppers.

You’re not short of choice when it comes to meal preparations, either. The kitchen really is fully equipped – Thetford Triplex cooker, extractor unit, microwave, sink with add-on drainer, 96-litre fridge with automatic energy selection– but worktop and storage space haven’t been forgotten, either, nor details like the kitchen roll holder and cutlery holder.

Payload is adequate, especially when you consider there’s not going to be much you’ll want to add to the class-leading specification. Also worth taking into account are features like the 20-litre underslung refillable gas tank – it saves locker space as well as pennies.

There’s also a selection of four body colours (three metallic, plus white) and six different upholsteries for 2016, a season which already looks like it’s going to be big for Auto-Sleepers.

There’s more information on the Warwick on the Auto-Sleepers website and to find out more about our low-cost premiums visit the motorhome insurance discounts page.

Verdict: Like a Warwick, but longer – and better

Plus: High specification, long beds, proven residual values

Minus: Not the cheapest

In-a-nutshell: Stretched accommodation, of the highest order

Alternatives: Autocruise Forte, IH 630 RL, Vantage Neo