Home//MMM - The Motorhomers' Magazine/Summer 2024/In This Issue
MMM - The Motorhomers' Magazine|Summer 2024WelcomeMMM always aims to be true to its founding principle of ‘written by motorhomers for motorhomers’. As such, all of the travel features you enjoy are written by active motorhomers or campervanners who have planned and enjoy the tours they write about and, in almost every case, in their own motorhome (except the occasional tour to distant lands where they may have hired a ‘van). I love this aspect of MMM and I know you do, too. Discovering what other motorhomers are enjoying and what delights they have found on their latest tour is a joy and, because it is genuine, it has that added element of honesty that you will never find in travel features written by journalists who have not even paid for the tour they're encouraging you…1 min
MMM - The Motorhomers' Magazine|Summer 2024Of mice and menMike (July, p10) has answered his own question. The mice came in and ate the sweets. Take all the food out of the ‘van. Philip Fisher Mike Fletcher made two mistakes in his search for a mouse-free motorhome. Never, ever, leave mouse poison in a stored ‘van. Every passing mouse will smell it and try to get in. Mike used lots of it all over the ‘van. No wonder he had unwelcome visitors! And sweets in the glovebox? The 'van needs to be cleaned thoroughly of every trace of food. Mike also used a ‘special plug’. Electronic devices to deter mice are great and really work. But one is not enough. Firstly, use the (more expensive) kind that work using the wiring as well as emitting a high-pitched noise that…1 min
MMM - The Motorhomers' Magazine|Summer 2024Motor muse monthlyFor quite a while we have been looking for a fresh adventure wagon but haven't quite dropped upon the right vehicle. A couple of years ago, whilst we were searching, we found one we thought might be the ideal replacement at one of those motorhome shows run by Warners, the publisher of MMM. However, it required a few modifications to make it comply with our exacting requirements. It had done very little mileage, and the converter reckoned it could do the ‘mods’, but needed time to work out the costs. So, we wandered off for lunch. An hour later, on our return, keen as mustard to do the deal, the 'van had a sold sign on it. Not to u,s though, but some other devious interloper who had paid cash…4 min
MMM - The Motorhomers' Magazine|Summer 2024Water, water everywhereIt has taken me a few years to persuade my husband to take a return trip to Scotland after our last one was a bit of a washout! The offer of fine sandy beaches and coves was enough to persuade him to give it another go and we set off from Somerset to travel the North Coast 500 (NC500), a route around the very top of Scotland, to some of the most remote areas in the UK. After two overnight stops we arrived at Inverness and the official start of the NC500. The route can be travelled in either a clockwise or anticlockwise direction and we chose the latter. Our first stop was at the lovely Rosemarkie on the Black Isle just north of Inverness overlooking the Moray Firth. This…12 min
MMM - The Motorhomers' Magazine|Summer 2024US AND OUR ‘VANNigel Cooke…and wife, Nicola, both work on the road while travelling across Europe. In 2023 they visited France, Spain, Portugal, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Germany and Belgium with future plans to tackle Italy, Greece and Slovenia 2018 VW Transporter high-top. Small enough to park in a normal parking space, but with seemingly endless storage. The 180W solar panel and dual leisure batteries mean that we can comfortably spend a full day working, while parked up in some beautiful locations…1 min
MMM - The Motorhomers' Magazine|Summer 2024Go wild in … SOUTH DEVONThe southeast corner of Devon has it all. Buckets of sand on brilliant beaches, oodles of history and seaside heritage, cliffs full of fascinating and funky fossils and a countryside endowed with more than its fair share of wonderful wildlife. Wildlife enthusiasts might be aware of some of the better-known spots, but here is a quick breakdown. At the west of our chosen region is the famous Exe Estuary, a magnet for birds, particularly good from autumn to early spring. Great places to explore the estuary include Topsham where there is an RSPB reserve and from Exmouth where there is an estuary-side walk and cycleway. Inland, between Exmouth and Sidmouth, there are a number of good heathland sites. These come in both wet and dry forms so are attractive to…8 min
MMM - The Motorhomers' Magazine|Summer 2024Your campsite reviewsENGLAND Concierge Camping, West Sussex As the advert goes, if Carlsberg did campsites, Concierge Camping would be it! This stunning 37-pitch site is located close to Chichester and the South Downs National Park. Concierge Camping offers an impressive level of luxury with pitches being fully serviced hardstandings, accommodating all (and I really mean all) sizes of vehicle. A superbly unique feature of the site is the option to upgrade to a Gladiator or Emperor Pitch. These include extras such as day-living safari tents with a dining area, dishwasher and stove, or cabins with an en suite bathroom, kitchen area and outside dining area. Of all the sites I've stayed on in a motorhome this is something I've never seen before and adds a level of luxury and choice that really…12 min
MMM - The Motorhomers' Magazine|Summer 2024Imperial for the mintedWATCH the video! motorhome.ma/review311 Coachman Caravans entered the motorhome market with the Mercedes-based Travel Master 545 and 565 low-profiles, the former instantly scooping the Luxury Motorhome of the Year title for 2023. Of course, it didn't make the leap from towed ‘vans unaided – being owned by Kabe, it took a Swedish-built motorhome and anglicised it to meet the unique demands of the UK market. A smaller, lighter Sportivo model is available, along with (Polish-built) Affinity campervans, but, following a show debut last October, it's the A-class Imperial that's leading the way, with the first examples arriving in dealerships just before you read this. It takes the same route as the first Travel Masters, tweaking an existing model and, arguably, stays closer to continental spec as the doors remain on…10 min
MMM - The Motorhomers' Magazine|Summer 2024My projectTECHNICAL Finding myself at a loose end between trips, off work and not feeling the urge to brave the bitter cold doing any jobs on the outside of the 'van over the winter, I decided to solve the potential problem of breaking the glass hob and sink top. I decided to go ahead with an upgrade that would take this worry away for good… and without breaking the bank. The target was to replace the existing Smev 9222 glass panels with a suitable heat-resistant, unbreakable material that costs far less than replacement glass panels (£79 each!). I also decided to sell my glass versions on the usual online marketplace to recover the costs. Having measured the glass thickness (4mm), I decided to go for 4.6mm aluminium chequerplate. I had already…3 min
MMM - The Motorhomers' Magazine|Summer 2024BuyingadviceNothing lasts forever and no matter how happy you've been with your motorhome or campervan, there will come a day when it's time to sell it. It could be because your circ*mstances have changed, you need a lighter model because of driving licence restrictions, or simply that you want a newer version with more modern facilities or a more efficient engine that complies with the growing number of clean air zones across Europe. Whatever the reason for selling, there are a number of steps to take to try to get the best price. HOW TO VALUE YOUR MOTORHOME The problem with used values is that there is no definitive guide. With the huge range of models available – sizes, layouts, base vehicles and types, plus the number of optional extras…11 min
MMM - The Motorhomers' Magazine|Summer 2024TABLETOP BBQsSWISS LUXX 1500W TEPPANYAKI GRILL If you tend to lose food through the grill bars of a conventional bbq, then take a look at a planche-style option with a flat plate. This all-electric model has a 1,500W output and a temperature control function. And, if you're low on space and light on budget, this Swiss Luxx Teppanyaki Grill is a great buy. That 28cm square cooking area may not do for the whole family, but it does mean it should be easier to store and that 1.92kg weight won't take up too much payload. The non-stick coating and removable drip tray mean it will be relatively easy to keep clean and, because it is electric, you can use it both inside the 'van and outside with a suitable mains hook-up…3 min
MMM - The Motorhomers' Magazine|Summer 2024New Multivan-based California launchedWe saw it as a concept at the Caravan Salon Düsseldorf last August (see November issue and our video at motorhome.ma/dusscpv23) – now the new-generation VW California campervan has made its debut in production form and the first deliveries are promised later this year. The new model introduces important innovations such as sliding doors on both sides, an optional hybrid drivetrain and a touchscreen control panel in the living area, linked to an app. But the biggest news, perhaps, is that the new California is, for the very first time, in no way related to the Transporter van. Instead, the new campervan is based on the Multivan MPV – a passenger car with its roots in Volkswagen's MQB platform (which has sired many cars from VW, Audi, Seat and Škoda).…6 min
MMM - The Motorhomers' Magazine|Summer 2024Hymer Grand Canyon STHE Grand Canyon S – that's S for Sprinter – is a long-standing model in Hymer's campervan range but this season it received a major makeover, with key design influences from the amazing, award-winning Venture S (the one with the staircase and incredible inflating rooftop bedroom). This, however, remains a more conventional campervan and one at a slightly more attainable price point. It is available as a rear-wheel drive model or, as here, on the 4x4 Sprinter. Merc's 4Matic permanent all-wheel drive adds £6,200 to the base price, but then it's compulsory to choose either the Equipment line Plus CV (£5,760) or Premium CV equipment line (£7,710). Both packs include the 10.25in MBUX display, cruise control, sat-nav, DAB radio preinstallation and the electric parking brake. You also have to opt…5 min
MMM - The Motorhomers' Magazine|Summer 2024Project Yonder Freedom4XONE of the stars of the February NEC show was undoubtedly the Project Yonder Freedom 4X. This 4x4 Mercedes Sprinter campervan comes from a young company targeting the top of the market and its quest to use only the very best fixtures and fittings throughout soon shows through. That starts with the base vehicle, a Sprinter 419 with the 190hp engine, nine-speed automatic transmission and, of course, a fully automated allwheel drive system. Heated cab seats, an upgraded 14V/250A alternator, the 10.25in MBUX display, parking package with 360-degree camera, an electric sliding door, a removable towbar and wireless smartphone charging are all included, too. The 4x4 Sprinter already stands tall but Project Yonder really makes it look the business with its additions. Black Rhino off-road wheels are wrapped in BF…4 min
MMM - The Motorhomers' Magazine|Summer 2024Love that layoutThe layout is the easiest aspect to get wrong if you're new to motorhomes, so don't rush in. Ever wondered why you see almost-new ‘vans traded in with a handful of miles? Those buyers probably bought the wrong layout for their needs – and may have paid dearly when partexchanging for something more suitable. Unless you're looking at small campervans, the first question you must ask yourself is: fixed bed or not? You can find fixed beds in campervans and motorhomes that are less than 6m long. Then, as you head into larger ‘vans typically measuring around 7.5m, it becomes harder to find layouts without a fixed bed. A compromise can be a drop-down bed. If this is the main bed, it won't take up any floor space in the…22 min
MMM - The Motorhomers' Magazine|Summer 2024Your lettersHave your say by emailing or writing to us at: mmm@warnersgroup.co.uk Who is pulling your chain? May I refer you to the letter from Dave Pilgrim (July, p123) on changing timing belts. Nick Fisher has given his answer, but may I just clarify the situation as I see it, before he goes ahead? This could save Dave money! I have a Bailey Approach Autograph, first registered in March 2014 based on a Peugeot Boxer 2.2 HDI diesel on an Al-Ko chassis. My understanding is that Peugeot Boxers were manufactured in the same factory as the Fiat Ducato, also the Citroën equivalent. The possibility exists that the engine spec of the Fiat and the Peugeot could be the same. The publication of the letter prompted me to check my situation. My…19 min
MMM - The Motorhomers' Magazine|Summer 2024Garden campingIn the July 2024 issue (page 13), Mike Payne writes about the new name for the old Jeugdstadion campsite to Urban Gardens. We were due to stay there in April with a friend, but sadly we had to postpone our trip. Our friend still went and was happy with the site. There was just one disappointment, not with the campsite, though – the Menin Gate is completely covered for extensive renovation works until next year. Jayne Hosmer ED Thanks Jayne. According to the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, work started on the Menin Gate in April 2023 and is expected to last over two years (until around summer 2025). Most of the scaffolding will remain in place for the duration, so if you wish to visit, it is likely that many…1 min
MMM - The Motorhomers' Magazine|Summer 2024Our monthA COUPLE OF BAKEWELL ‘PUDDINGS’! “We could attempt to walk off a little of this excess in the surrounding gardens” Helen Werin Travel Writer We've spent many happy times enjoying the beautiful walks from the Camping and Caravanning Club's Bakewell site, yet we'd never visited the Thornbridge Estate, seven miles away, until now, that is. Our stomachs rumbling in anticipation as we drove through Bakewell – heaving with tourists on a Saturday afternoon – it was hard to ignore the town's multitude of cosy cafés. But we were on a mission. Our son and daughter-in-law were generously treating my husband and me to a special afternoon tea in Thornbridge's Quackers Café. By the time we'd munched happily through a delicious variety of sandwiches, including my favourite smoked salmon and cream…2 min
MMM - The Motorhomers' Magazine|Summer 2024Confessions of a newbieOur motorhome adventure started when shopping for a kettle. We had spent a couple of nights camping at a lovely woodland spot. On the Saturday, the skies clouded over and, after checking a weather app, it showed light rain was expected for an hour. Six hours of torrential rain later, we emerged into a lovely, albeit damp summer evening. Once the bbq was lit and a curry cooking away nicely, we reflected on those six hours with no way to boil water for tea as we had forgotten our camping stove. The following morning, we packed and headed for the local camping shop to buy a kettle. Two hours later, we were the ridiculously proud owners of a two-yearold Elddis Sunseeker 115. Collection date set, we returned home and spent…3 min
MMM - The Motorhomers' Magazine|Summer 2024Savouring Saint-MaloAs far as I'm concerned our long weekend away starts the moment we drive onto the overnight ferry headed for SaintMalo, a historic French port on Brittany's north coast. Although we'd be asleep for most of the crossing, we'd wake up in France just in time for a continental breakfast. My husband once visited Saint-Malo as a young boy. His family didn't have money to burn, but Paul's dad promised him a lovely, flaky sausage roll on the last day of their trip. He couldn't wait! Unfortunately, the enticing pastry in the window display turned out to be a pain au chocolat. Delicious, of course, but less so if you're anticipating a savoury supper… Saint-Malo undoubtedly offers a convenient entry point to France, and a handy overnight stop near the…10 min
MMM - The Motorhomers' Magazine|Summer 2024My travels…“Around 100 miles off the north tip of mainland Scotland lie the Shetland Islands – the most northern part of the UK. Sitting between the Atlantic Ocean and the North Sea, these remote islands are closer to Bergen in Norway than they are to Edinburgh! We have always enjoyed the ‘road less travelled’ and, for us, the Shetland Islands became the ultimate place to get away from it all. Two days travelling up from the Midlands had got us sitting on the dock in Aberdeen waiting to board the vehicle ferry, Hjaltland. As it was our first large ferry trip in our ‘van, we felt some trepidation, but there was no need to worry. The ship was huge and it could easily fitting even the largest motorhome on board –…6 min
MMM - The Motorhomers' Magazine|Summer 2024Swift's second new campervan of 2024NEW MODELSwift Monza TESTED Swift has been busy updating its campervan range. First came the Trekker and Trekker X (see May issue) on the ‘big’ Transit, now they're followed by the new Monza S, based on the latest Tourneo (passengercarrying) version of the Transit Custom (the smaller van, which will sire the replacement for the VW Transporter T6.1). Like the original Monza campervan, which debuted in 2022, the new model is a pop-top 'van with a side kitchen layout. However, it benefits from the many enhancements of the all-new ‘V710’ Transit Custom van. So, the new model has a lower floor, with no external step required, while the walk-through from the cab has been improved as there's now an electronic parking brake. The cab benefits from a roof-mounted passenger airbag,…3 min
MMM - The Motorhomers' Magazine|Summer 2024WIN £50Crossword When you have solved the crossword the coloured squares highlight a motorhome-related anagram ACROSS 1 The art of loading a motorhome before a holiday (7) 5 Celestial bodies (5) 8 Get better (7) 9 Protective cloth when cooking (5) 10 Not be frugal (5) 11 Lack (7) 12 Pressure (6) 14 Entry (6) 17 Fun (7) 19 One of the senses (5) 22 Departures (5) 23 Tales (7) 24 Borders (5) 25 Gas or water elements of a motorhome, for example (7) DOWN 1 Where ships call (5) 2 Repetitive pattern (5) 3 Encroaches upon (7) 4 The nationality of Hymer (6)5 Closes up an envelope (5) 6 Organise (7) 7 Members of a choir (7) 12 Chief (7) 13 Like the 1920s (7) 15 Travellers may pass through…1 min
MMM - The Motorhomers' Magazine|Summer 2024My projectWe uprated the load capacity of a pre-owned Fiat Ducato Auto-Trail Apache 632 we recently purchased. We chose this model because we needed a motorhome under seven metres long with a fixed double bed and a garage. Given that it had a 3,650kg gross vehicle weight, we thought it ticked all the boxes and a few weekends away confirmed that the layout was perfect for our needs. However, having loaded up for our summer break, we headed to our weighbridge and discovered we were pushing the rear axle limit. Investigations made it clear the problem was caused by having a large garage and a long overhang on a 'van with a relatively short wheelbase. We concluded we had a couple of options: either not carry so much or have the…4 min
MMM - The Motorhomers' Magazine|Summer 2024Vintage ‘vans…had a 1984 VW T25 Westfalia Joker high-top. It is on the road with MoT, and is now on the hunt for a larger classic THIS MONTH Martin Watts is on the hunt for a new, more modern classic Motorhomes come in all shapes and sizes, from the micro car-based campervans through to huge RVs. Plus, we have a good selection of base vehicles to choose from. This was not always the case and things were certainly different in the formative years of motorhomes during the 1950s, when the Bedford Dormobile and VW splitscreen were popular options. Thankfully, as our favourite hobby has evolved, so have our options when it comes to purchasing, be that new models or searching the used classified adverts. Those who have been using motorhomes and…5 min
MMM - The Motorhomers' Magazine|Summer 2024My view…“Planning a trip to Devon and Cornwall for this summer, I came across a scrapbook compiled on a previous campervan holiday to the southwest of England. In June 1983, I had set off on my first solo adventure (following my divorce) in XRA 55L, a Volkswagen converted by Richard Holdsworth. In those days, there was no need to book campsites ahead of the holiday. You just turned up at a site of your choice for that night, although I did experience the occasional site that refused to accept lone travellers (or even single-sex ‘groups’ of one). My ‘bible’ on that trip was the AA Caravan and Camping Guide. In a campervan with no electric hook-up, water heater, toilet or fridge, I was looking for sites that offered facilities. Keeping food…3 min
MMM - The Motorhomers' Magazine|Summer 2024Kaktus OasisIF you went to the Caravan, Camping and Motorhome Show at the NEC back in February, you won't have missed this campervan. In fire engine red, with grey geometric graphics, it's hardly a vehicle for shrinking violets. Other colours are available, as well as a medium-wheelbase version (called Dune), but even in a more subdued shade, the Oasis would look ready to deal with some kind of camping Armageddon! It's not even immediately obvious what base vehicle it's built on, as MAN branding has been substituted by Kaktus across the new mesh grille and the standard bumper has gone, too, with its angular replacement looking like it's almost designed for a bit of ram-raiding. Inset lights and a winch are then joined by a row of circular spotlamps on the…3 min
MMM - The Motorhomers' Magazine|Summer 2024Renegade Campers DemountableIN the States they call them truck campers or demountables, while in the UK the most recognised term is dismountable. They are effectively a caravan body that slides into the bed of a pick-up truck and is removable, so you can use the truck as a workhorse during the week. Or you might simply leave the body behind on a campsite, using the pick-up as a car – so, using it like a caravan but without the hassle of towing. And, of course, without the camper body on board, the truck is lower, shorter (usually), lighter and more fuel efficient. There have been a number of dismountables available on the UK market over the years, including respected and long-established German brands, Bimobil and Tischer, as well as British rivals. Unlike…3 min
MMM - The Motorhomers' Magazine|Summer 2024Getting a retrimI was chuffed to win the competition in October 2023 to have the interior of my motorhome upgraded, with the prize supplied by Reluxe. After being contacted by MMM, we were put in touch with Reluxe to organise the date for the work to be completed. On arrival at Reluxe we were greeted by Faith and her highly skilled team. We spent the next couple of hours going through our options and a sample was made up so we could see what our choices would look like. Nothing was too much trouble. Over the next two days the Reluxe team worked flat out to transform our motorhome into something special. At the end of day two, the finished transformation of our motorhome was unveiled and what a fantastic job. We…1 min
MMM - The Motorhomers' Magazine|Summer 2024Your favourite photosSHARE YOUR PHOTOS If you have a picture of a motorhome adventure that makes you smile, please share it. Email it and a caption to mmm@warnersgroup.co.uk…1 min
MMM - The Motorhomers' Magazine|Summer 2024CoasthoppersWe were leaving our pet sit in the Algarve, after 10 days with the sweetest cat named Mushtie. This cat's home just happened to be a pretty perfect villa nestled in the Portuguese countryside, so we were understandably a little down in the mouth. We love the opportunity to house/pet sit while on the road, not least because it gives us a chance to spread out and get some much-needed cuddles from whichever furry animal we are taking care of. However, leaving is always tinged with a touch of sadness, and it usually takes us a few days to get back into the swing of things. At this point we had been on the road for seven weeks and, with just another three left until we had to make a…11 min
MMM - The Motorhomers' Magazine|Summer 2024Get away for… THE WEEKEND!Weekend Break | TRAVEL Bridlington's bracing seafront is very busy with fairground rides, fish and chip shops, ice cream and waffle kiosks doing a roaring trade. Yet the characterful narrow streets of the Old Town are eerily quiet in contrast. Whilst the promenade crowds appear to have come for the haddock and chips, a spin on the dodgems or to brave the wind whipping off the North Sea on one or other of the two vast sandy beaches, I've come to sample the history tucked away in the quaint backstreets, a half-hour walk inland. As a fan of Dad's Army I knew that Bridlington became Walmington-on-Sea for the 2016 movie. Admittedly, that was what had initially made me park opposite the Pack Horse in Market Place, expectant of being able…8 min
MMM - The Motorhomers' Magazine|Summer 2024Reet petiteTESTEDRapido C03 WATCH the video! motorhome.ma/review309 Slimline, or narrow-bodied, motorhomes appear to be very much en vogue at the moment, with Auto-Trail and Bailey each launching completely new ranges this season. Quelle surprise, you might say, as it's not hard to see the appeal of coachbuilt motorhome insulation and flat sides that create more interior space in combination with near-panel van proportions – especially at a time when campervan sales have been skyrocketing. Where a coachbuilt is usually much broader than a campervan at 2.30m to 2.35m wide (and some are wider still), these slimmer models are only around 2.20m or less. It might not sound a lot – until you're threading yourself down a country lane in Cornwall, wishing that you could do more than just fold in the…11 min
MMM - The Motorhomers' Magazine|Summer 2024Tech help!TECH HELP EDITOR Base vehicle expert Q What is causing my motorhome's indicator warning light to appear? My 'van is a 2016 Chausson 610 Welcome built on the Ducato with extended mirrors. A while ago a dashboard warning come up showing ‘check RS indicator’ with the usual orange triangle. I changed both front indicator bulbs, but that didn't cure the problem. I then went on to change the mirror-mounted ones, but unfortunately the wattage was not visible on the old bulbs. The handbook says that they could be 5W or 16W, so I tried 16 first but no cure. Externally, everything flashes at the correct rate, including the Jokon LED rear ones. My local garage advised trying 21W bulbs; with these the warnings asked me to check both left and…23 min
MMM - The Motorhomers' Magazine|Summer 2024The beauty of gasTech Advice | TECHNICAL Most motorhomes come with a gas system that is commonly used to power the hob/oven, fridge and heating/hot water. You can go gas-free with dieselpowered heating and hot water, compressor fridges that work off electric only and either diesel or induction hobs, but most of these things will require hefty batteries and upgraded charging systems to allow you to stay away from hook-up for even a few days. Smaller campervans may also only have portable gas-powered hobs and not be fitted with hot water or heaters. Gas is favoured as a source of energy because it is very efficient, cheap and is compressed, so the amount of energy stored in a 6kg cylinder, for example, holds the same amount of energy as 42 leisure batteries! So,…11 min
MMM - The Motorhomers' Magazine|Summer 2024ACCESSORIESWATERSPORTS SEVYLOR ADVENTURE INFLATABLE KAYAK KIT Manufacturers of pumps and compressors must be jumping for joy at the moment, with a massive and growing range of inflatable awnings, furniture and outdoor gear on the market. Here, we are looking to take to the water this summer with an inflatable kayak from Sevylor. While it can seat two, if the other half prefers a paperback to a paddle, this marine vessel has adjustable seating to allow solo kayaking. A removable fin can be fitted to enhance handling and bungee cords can help secure accessories you need easy access to. Use the supplied foot pump to inflate easily with single interface valves. The kit also includes two paddles (which look like they can be combined to make a double-ended paddle for solo…4 min
MMM - The Motorhomers' Magazine|Summer 2024In this issue ofWhat motorhomeWe probably all dream of getting away from it all and, for some of us, that means away from other human beings. It means being more adventurous, swapping Tarmac for gravel, sand and mud. Exchanging the cosy comfort of campsites for a deserted beach or a wild hillside. Far from the madding crowd… The reality, of course, is that most campervans and motorhomes are front-wheel drive and like soft and loose surfaces about as much as kids like homework. Even farm sites can be a challenge when the grass is sodden, as it was for months in the early part of 2024. So, perhaps, the only surprise in the current boom in 4x4 campervans is that it's taken so long. Specialists in the sector, like market-leader, RP, have been joined…1 min
MMM - The Motorhomers' Magazine|Summer 2024Eura Mobil Xtura 686 EFHERE'S something of a rarity – a mainstream manufacturer (part of the mighty Trigano Group) building a specific 4x4 motorhome. The new Xtura, which was launched in January at the Stuttgart show, isn't a two-wheel drive 'van with a 4x4 option, it's allwheel drive as standard. It comes from Eura Mobil, a marque that has only recently reappeared on the UK market via M and C Ltd in Hull (so right-hand drive is available), and, unsurprisingly, it's based on the Mercedes Sprinter. Its maker describes the Xtura as being for “superlative independence”, claiming that the 330Ah lithium battery, 3kW inverter and two 120W solar panels can give you “independent power for up to 30 days.” Just as important if you want to truly get off the Tarmac, Eura Mobil says…4 min
MMM - The Motorhomers' Magazine|Summer 2024Yucon 6.0 BD 4x4WHILST there are mainstream, frontwheel drive Fiat-based models in the Yucon range, it's the Mercs that stand out from the crowd. Partly that's because these are the ones designed and built at Frankia's plant at Marktschorgast in Germany and partly because many of them are 4x4s that literally tower over their stablemates. Despite prices that start north of £100k, it's also the all-wheel drive models that dominate sales, accounting for around 70% of Yucon production. There are six and seven-metre models, with single or double beds at the rear and all three designs can now be specified in K-peak special edition form, of which more later. Shown here is the standard 6.0 BD, which is a direct rival for Hymer's Grand Canyon S. As photographed, it wore a £115,518 price…3 min
MMM - The Motorhomers' Magazine|Summer 2024Four by Four for you?EXTREME MACHINES If something as effete as a 4x4 Sprinter offends you (!) and you want a true Rambo motorhome to go around the world, then the Caravan Salon Düsseldorf (31 August to 8 September 2024) is the place to go. There you'll see companies such as Action Mobil and Bliss Mobil (shown) with four, six or maybe even eight-wheel drive monsters that look simply unstoppable. Base vehicles look like Tonka Toys made life-sized and are often MAN or Unimog. Just don't expect change from half a million euros. Or more… WELLHOUSE LEISURE Japanese campervan specialist, Wellhouse Leisure, reports regular interest in the allwheel drive versions of its Honda Elysion and Toyota Alphard conversions, which usually attract a small premium over twowheel drive versions but still remain ultracompetitive in this…4 min
