Open, inviting, and refreshingly uncomplicated, the Avan M6 Ovation is a motorhome that focuses on space and getting the basics right. Claire Smith checks it out.
The annual Covi RV & Outdoor SuperShow is always a good place to get a feel for what’s new, what’s popular, and what’s genuinely turning heads. This year, the very first motorhome I stepped into was Rugged Kiwi’s Avan M6 Ovation. As it turns out, it set the bar pretty high from the outset.
By mid-morning on day two, Rugged Kiwi had already sold five. While I was taking a look through this one, a couple who had just signed the paperwork were happy to share why. As one of them put it, “It just feels like home.”
They spoke about the layout, and how it offers plenty of room to move.
“It feels straightforward, uncomplicated – just what we’re looking for.”
They were also quick to mention the team at Rugged Kiwi and how excellent they were to buy from.
“They’re genuinely caring, knowledgeable, and focused on helping people find the right fit, rather than simply making a sale. Just really lovely people.”
Interestingly, they told me they’d come to the show intending to downsize, but ended up going the other way. And I can see why. There was something about this motorhome that I just loved. The contemporary decor, the spaciousness, the big windows and skylights. It felt calming, welcoming and the perfect home away from home.
Welcoming and warm
Right: The M6 Ovation offers a generous amount of interior space
Built on a Fiat Ducato chassis, and at just under eight metres in length, the M6 Ovation offers a generous amount of interior space. Large windows, a modern colour palette, and the generous skylight over the bed all help to bring in plenty of natural light, giving the interior a relaxed, comfortable feel.
The soft duck egg tones in the cabinetry pairs beautifully with black handles, crisp white walls, and timber-look flooring and benchtops to give the interior a modern, cohesive look. It’s simple, but thoughtfully executed, with just enough detail to lift it beyond the basics.
The layout is practical, with the dinette up front and the kitchen and bathroom sitting centrally opposite each other, before opening out to the rear bedroom with a full island bed.
It’s a configuration that feels nicely balanced, with a clear line of sight from front to back. The new buyers also mentioned the benefit of the flat floor throughout the living space, making it safe and easy to move about in.
Home cooking
Right: The kitchen is well-set-up with plenty of practical bench space
Up front, the dinette has its own defined space, with the swivel cab seats turning to join a double bench seat and table. It’s a comfortable spot for meals or relaxing, with plenty of natural light coming in through the windscreen and side windows.
The kitchen sits directly behind, running along the side in a galley layout. It’s a well-set-up space, with everything within easy reach and enough bench area to be genuinely practical to use. The inclusion of a full oven and grill, gas cooktop, and microwave means you’re well sorted when it comes to meal prep.
Storage is a strong point here, too. A combination of deep drawers, overhead lockers, and a pull-out pantry provides room for everything from cookware to pantry items, while the large two-door fridge-freezer has enough capacity for extended trips away.
As with the rest of the interior, the finish is clean and consistent. The timber-look benchtop, rounded edges, and handle-less overhead cabinetry give it a modern feel, while details like the window behind the bench and good task lighting add a practical touch.
Sweet dreams
Right: The main bedroom sits at the rear with plenty of space and storage
The main bedroom sits at the rear, with a fixed island bed positioned north-south. It’s a layout that continues to be one of the most popular choices among Kiwi motorhomes. Having space to move around both sides makes everyday use far more practical, particularly when it comes to making the bed or getting in and out without climbing over each other.
Storage is nicely sorted too, with overhead lockers and wardrobes for clothes and the usual extras. The skylight above the bed is a real highlight. On the day I was reviewing, the sun was streaming in, which lifted the whole space and made it feel extra warm and inviting. And with generous windows on each side, it’s hard to fault as far as motorhome bedrooms go.
There’s also a second double bed over the cab, which retreats up and out of the way when it’s not in use. It’s a handy addition if you’ve got guests or family joining, and it doesn’t get in the way during the day.
If you prefer a different setup, there’s also a twin single bed option available, which gives a bit more flexibility depending on how you like to travel.
Shower in style
Like the rest of the Ovation, the bathroom is elegantly simple in its approach. Positioned centrally and opposite the kitchen, it’s a fully self-contained space with a separate shower, toilet, and vanity.
The shower is a good size, with a proper enclosure and built-in shelving for toiletries. The vanity includes a bench-mounted basin and some usable bench space, along with storage below for the essentials. The black sink and tapware are a nice touch too, tying in neatly with the rest of the interior styling.
Exterior
Right: External storage includes a good-sized rear garage for larger items
On the outside, the Ovation carries through that same clean, understated approach. The low-profile body keeps the overall height down, while still allowing for good interior headroom, and gives it a tidy, well-proportioned look on the road.
Avan’s lightweight panel build is designed to deliver strength without adding unnecessary weight, which has benefits not just for durability, but also for handling and fuel use over longer distances.
External storage includes a good-sized rear garage for larger items, along with additional external lockers for cords, hoses, and the usual gear. For outdoor living, the wind-out awning creates a sheltered space alongside the motorhome, with an LED strip light for evenings.
Noteworthy mentions
A few additional features help round out the Ovation’s appeal. The roof-mounted air conditioning is a welcome inclusion, especially in the height of summer when a blast of cool air is a game-changer.
The electrical setup includes a battery management system, along with the option to add solar if you’re planning to spend more time off-grid.
Inside, there’s a solid list of everyday inclusions, including a flat screen TV, media sound system and USB charging points.
It’s also worth noting the overall finish. From the cabinetry through to the hardware and internal detailing, everything is neatly put together, and that same level of care carries right through the motorhome.
Summary
The Ovation gets a lot right. It feels like quality without being overdone, with a contemporary look, a well-balanced layout, and plenty of usable space throughout. Everything has been thought through in a practical way, without adding unnecessary complexity.
For travellers planning to make the most of the country with a few extended holidays, this one is a must-see.
Find out more at ruggedkiwi.co.nz
Avan Ovation 7.0 specifications
| Make and model | Avan Ovation 7.0 |
|---|---|
| Chassis | Fiat Ducato |
| Engine | 2.0L turbo diesel |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic |
| Berths | 4 |
| Length | 7.920m |
| Width | 2.470m |
| Height | 3.1m |
| Fresh/grey water | 103L/110L |
