With names like Savannah, Apache, Comanche, Navajo, Tracker, and others in the Auto-Trail range, you could be forgiven for thinking this popular brand hails from the US of A, but you’d be wrong. These sumptuously appointed vehicles are built in the United Kingdom under the umbrella of the giant Trigano Group.
The latest to reach our shores is the Imala range of compact Auto-Trail motorhomes, now at Auckland Motorhomes. These feature spacious layouts in small but perfectly formed vehicles ranging from a dinky 6.3 metres up to 7.25 metres. And all layouts and models are sure to tick the boxes while also speaking to the trend of smaller vehicles which still offer all the requisite conveniences without compromise.
All Auto-Trail motorhomes are built on the popular Fiat Ducato base featuring the latest available engine options – the Euro 5 MultiJet in 147bhp or 177bhp – all with Fiat’s Comfort-Matic automatic gearbox. While we make no pretence that we road-tested this particular vehicle, previous Auto-Trail road tests have underscored the stability and handling of the front-wheel drive, wide track Ducato chassis. This translates into a driving experience which is car-like and effortless.
What’s more, Auto-Trail prides itself on engineering reliable and robust quality vehicles, with a steel frame attaching the composite construction body to the cab. They aim to be the quietest vehicles on the road, while also meeting the highest standards of thermal insulation and aerodynamic styling. Backing its unique construction and rigorous testing, Auto-Trail offers a 10-year body construction integrity warranty.
Add double-glazed acrylic windows to Grade III insulation and a gas/electric heating system that is reticulated throughout the vehicle, including the bathroom, this is an exceptionally thermally efficient interior. Winter touring is a definite option.
All windows – including those in the cab – are also equipped with concertina shades and insect screens and the large, panoramic sunroof promotes a sense of airy spaciousness. And if the overhead sun is too intense, the built-in shade is easily deployed.
From the moment you step inside an Imala you will be wowed by the clever, space-maximising design. Opt for the Imala 615 and you’ll enter the vehicle from a rear door. To the right in this model, you’ll have a fully equipped galley kitchen and a generous living area with two inward-facing settees to your left. These effortlessly convert to two long singles or a transverse double.
Choose the 620 and you’ll have the family friendly five-berth with Luton bed and convertible dinette. This flexible design not only provides extra seatbelt options but also converts into two double beds and a single. Again, the choice is yours. But if dreams were free, I’d choose the four-berth 625 with generous U-shaped rear lounge – which also doubles as a dinette – and additional double Luton bed in the cab. But I’d keep it all to myself, although the grandkids would be welcome at any time.
There are several more options available when you hit the seven-metre-plus mark and I imagine these will be hugely popular with larger families. The 715 combines a permanent French bed with a rear double converting the forward lounge into a foursome friendly motorhome with galley and en suite amidships, but if you choose the half-dinette model you can upgrade your sleeping options from four to six.
Families will also love the 720 which offers a rear lounge convertible into a double bed and a half dinette. This – together with the inward facing settee opposite and swivelling captain’s chairs available in all models – creates a sociable hub for dining. All this while still allowing for an additional double bed in the Luton.
Top of the Imala range is the recently introduced 730 which offers a luxury of space and ticks all the boxes: island bed; Lo-Line or High-Line; bench seat and extra seatbelts for those occasional passengers.
All come with a compact but stylish bathroom, together with your choice of contemporary Iris fabric (shown) or three other cost choices to complement the satin two-tone wood cabinetry finish. Additional, practical features include outdoor shower and barbecue points; a recessed (wind-out) awning; and a Thule step which automatically retracts as soon as your start the engine.
The Imala range feels warm, welcoming and cosy, and it’s equipped with top-class fittings. It will quickly encourage you to reduce your motorhome’s footprint while expanding your touring aspirations.
For a full range of Auto-Trail options and specifications for each Imala model, phone (09) 294 6500.
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