Auto-Trail versus Auto-Sleepers Van Conversions

DaveJ99 replied on 04/03/2018 17:05

Posted on 04/03/2018 17:05

Considering moving from a caravan to a PVC.

Looking at the following models:-

Auto-Sleepers Warwick XL (6.36 x 2.5m).

Auto-Trail V-Line 610 with 130ps engine upgrade (5.99 x 2.51m).

Would very much appreciate advice on the pros and cons of these manufacturers, especially quality and reliability. Would also welcome any advice generally on the best choice of vehicle. Bear in mind we have no motor-home experience whatever.

Favour PVC versus coach-built MH because of narrower width and perhaps better manoeuvrability on Scottish one-track roads, small ferries, stores, parking etc. Have chosen 2-berth, 2-travel-seat models with 6'3" lengthwise double/twin bed configuration for flexibility, ease of access, ease of make-up and ability to leave made-up.

Our caravanning is hitherto long stays on sites in the Scottish Highlands and then driving to outdoor locations. Would now like to do longer journeys, with more and shorter stops, a chore with a caravan. Would still like to have the ability to drive from site to other locations as easily as possible, hence interest in a PVC as a compromise between a caravan/car and a coach-built MH, if that makes sense.

Look forward to members advice, especially if my ideas are misguided. Tell it like it is. I will not be offended. You may save me from doing the wrong thing. Thanks in advance, Dave

Qashqai66 replied on 05/03/2018 16:34

Posted on 05/03/2018 15:45 by DaveJ99

2018 Swift Select 122  (Formerly Autocruise Rhythm as suggested by Fisherman).

6m PVC. Has a very nice long parallel 6ft fixed twins/make-up double bed. Decent wash room. No microwave. Gas bottles under the sink. Tight storage. Keenly priced. A contender for us.

According to local dealer 2018 production is sold out.

 

 

Posted on 05/03/2018 16:34

May suit some but it's not a Mercedes.

Qashqai66 replied on 05/03/2018 16:46

Posted on 05/03/2018 15:19 by Tinwheeler

Unfortunately, Q, the Stanton is probably wider than Dave wants. It’s the same width as our AS Suffolk was and it took a lot of soul searching to give up the auto Merc and replace it with the manual Pug in order to get the narrower width van with a layout we were happy with.

We like the new van and the change was worthwhile but we do miss the Merc. At the end of the day, we each have to weigh things up and there'll always be a compromise to be made somewhere along the way.

 

Posted on 05/03/2018 16:46

I can see the Stanton may be too  wide for Dave.  I don't think we would mind the extra width as almost all our travel is in France.  We look for temperatures preferably above 30C and, much as we love the Highlands, it is not often that warm up there.

Tinwheeler replied on 05/03/2018 18:33

Posted on 05/03/2018 16:34 by Qashqai66

May suit some but it's not a Mercedes.

Posted on 05/03/2018 18:33

Q, you know there are very few on a Merc!

Dave hasn't specified Merc so it’s mot an issue for him.

DaveJ99 replied on 05/03/2018 20:22

Posted on 05/03/2018 18:33 by Tinwheeler

Q, you know there are very few on a Merc!

Dave hasn't specified Merc so it’s mot an issue for him.

Posted on 05/03/2018 20:22

I don't have enough Quash to buy a Merc so I am looking at the new Reliant PVC. Its a narrow compact made by Trotters, but they say it does not corner very well.

Tinwheeler replied on 05/03/2018 20:25

Posted on 05/03/2018 20:22 by DaveJ99

I don't have enough Quash to buy a Merc so I am looking at the new Reliant PVC. Its a narrow compact made by Trotters, but they say it does not corner very well.

Posted on 05/03/2018 20:25

It’s a bit short on payload, too, but only having to buy 3 tyres is a bonus.laughing

DaveJ99 replied on 05/03/2018 20:51

Posted on 05/03/2018 20:25 by Tinwheeler

It’s a bit short on payload, too, but only having to buy 3 tyres is a bonus.laughing

Posted on 05/03/2018 20:51

Not to mention panoramic views.

brue replied on 05/03/2018 21:18

Posted on 05/03/2018 21:18

smilelaughing

Just a thought, have you looked at bed widths, the v line singles are 2.1 x 6.3 

Auto S are 2.4 x 6.3

those few inches make a big difference in comfort

brue replied on 05/03/2018 21:18

Posted on 05/03/2018 21:18

smilelaughing

Just a thought, have you looked at bed widths, the v line singles are 2.1 x 6.3 

Auto S are 2.4 x 6.3

those few inches make a big difference in comfort

near Malvern Hills Club Campsite Member photo by Andrew Cole

Book a late escape

There's still availability at many popular UK Club campsites - find your perfect pitch today for a last minute trip!

Book now
Woman sitting in camping chair by Wastwater in the Lake District with her two dogs and picnic blanket

Follow us on Facebook

Follow the Caravan and Motorhome Club via our official Facebook page for latest news, holiday ideas, events, activities and special offers.

Photo of Wast Water, Lake District by Sue Peace
Visit Facebook