2020 Bailey Autograph 69-2 motorhome

Room at the top for two!

Bailey’s flagship motorhome range has had a revamp for the 2020 season – building on success and adding some key extra kit, much of this based on feedback on what is an ever-growing number of Bailey motorhome owners.

And it’s this, the strictly two-berth Bailey Autograph 69-2, that’s one of two new models that is reaping the rewards. It’s also the only model designated exclusively for two in the eight-strong Autograph motorhome line-up – a replacement for the previous 68-2, but it’s crucially some 20cm longer, which means the rear lounge can also be used for twin single beds.

There’s a lot to be said for keeping any motorhome strictly two-berth. It makes things so much more straightforward when you don’t have to worry about extra travel seating and sleeping berths – allowing designers to concentrate their thoughts on adequate lounges, kitchens, washrooms and sleeping accommodation for just two folk.

Latest Autographs come with black cabs and silver sides, with main bodywork edging and wind-out awning in white.  Good use of graphics helps marry all of this together, with black alloy wheels helping add to the appearance.

Bailey-watchers, too, will have noticed how the company has increasingly streamlined the appearance of its motorhomes since coming to the market back in 2011. It’s a particularly small overcab section here, for example, although it still boasts internal storage and an opening sunroof.

Main access to the living quarters is via a new Hartal one-piece habitation door, with window and inset step while, at the back, small hatches allow you to get at the full-width underseat storage area from either side – suitable for outdoor furniture, barbecues and the like.

Fixings to add a bike rack are on the rear panel.

That roomy rear lounge is likely to be the key attraction of the 69-2. It features sprung seating for extra comfort, while the light upholstery combines with a two-tone gloss finish to the overhead lockers and generously sized windows, plus a large rooflight overhead, all contriving to keep things feeling roomy.

Also, Bailey’s policy of building bodies just that bit wider than its rivals is of benefit in this respect.

At night, you can choose between making up a transverse double, maximum dimensions 2.06m x 1.89m, or two singles at 1.89m x 0.61m each.

There’s a step down from the lounge to the rest of the living quarters, with a well-stocked kitchen along the nearside. The unit here houses a full cooker (dual-fuel hob, separate oven and grill) and sink with add-on drainer, over which is a microwave oven.

Large drawer storage is commendable. And a flip-up extension provides extra worktop when needed.

The worktop cover over the hob (it covers a more typical glass lid), acrylic splash panel and twin mains sockets (one at right angles to the other, for convenience) are becoming typical Bailey hallmarks.

The fridge sits at a convenient height across the corridor. Its 134-litre capacity is less than its sister models but it’s surely adequate for couples.

It’s on the same side as the washroom, where the large shower cubicle is the star feature.

There’s more to the Bailey Autograph 69-2 motorhome. Details like the ledges close to the swivelled front seats – OK, it’s not quite a separate front lounge, but it offers scope for sitting comfortably and enjoying a drink whilst parked up.

The wardrobe is upfront, too, behind the passenger seat.

There’s been some clever design work here with both the wardrobe and the washroom opposite, to prevent any feeling of being cut off from the rest of the living quarters. It’s something to savour for yourself when you go to view this model.

Autographs continue Bailey’s usual starting point of Peugeot Boxer cab allied to an Al-Ko chassis extension. The converter’s policy of one-spec’-suits-all pays dividends when it comes to keeping costs competitive. Hence you get features such as cab air conditioning, cruise control, DAB stereo with satnav and Bluetooth connectivity and more as standard.

Elsewhere, the 100Watt solar panel, Status 550 TV aerial (there’s also pre-wiring for a satellite system), plenty of USB outlets, exterior gas and mains sockets, Ecocamel showerhead and more keep the specification up seemingly, whilst also keeping the overall price highly competitive.

And when the overall specification tops out with Alde central heating and hot water you know it’s worth having another check at the on-the-road price.

Plus that new, standard-fit reversing camera linked to the Peugeot head unit will attract a discount on your motorhome insurance with Caravan Guard, and help you to reverse your motorhome just like a pro!

In this video, we take a look around the Bailey Autograph 69-2 motorhome.

Verdict: Well-priced, well-specified two-berth end lounge low-profile to add to your list

Minus: No engine/transmission choices

In-a-nutshell: The very model of a modern two-berth motorhome

There’s more information on the Autograph range on the Bailey website. Find out more about insuring this or your current motorhome on our motorhome insurance discounts page.

Alternatives: Auto-Trail Imala 625, Elddis Accordo 120, Swift Escape 622