Swift breaks the mould with four-berth Autocruise van conversion
The automatic version of the Quartet (pictured) is based on the Fiat Ducato
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Friday, 06, Jan 2012 12:02
by Chris Jefferies
Swift Caravans is hoping to tempt caravanning families with the launch of their latest panel van conversion, the Autocruise Quartet.
The market-leading Autocruise range of vans already includes five different layouts, and the Quartet is the first van conversion from a major manufacturer to offer four berths, including two bunk beds.
This is all cleverly packed into the Peugeot Boxer / Fiat Ducato bodyshell, meaning that just like every other Autocruise van conversion it is just 6m long.
The layout is made possible by a clever convertible double bed arrangement in the front end, while the van also includes rear seatbelts, so you can safely take the kids along with you.
Swift insists that this van is also practical for day-to-day use, whether you want to pop to the shops or explore the local area during a touring holiday.
The front driver and passenger seats also rotate 180 degrees, and this makes for a comfortable living room area to enjoy a meal or just relax in the evenings.
Other practical considerations include the rear loading doors, which allow easy access via the washroom, meaning you can easily store bikes inside your van.
As well as all the functional features, the Quartet also boasts plenty of style; from the sequin lights that line the main entrance to the well-appointed kitchenette area.
Power and performance
Driving this 3.5 tonne van is a 2.2-litre Peugeot Diesel engine, which delivers 130bhp via a six-speed gearbox. Swift claims this provides "the ideal combination of economy and performance".
Alternatively, there is an automatic version, based on the Fiat Ducato and powered by a 2.3-litre engine. Both options are Euro 5 engines, which offer a 7 per cent reduction in carbon emissions, when compared with the previous version.
Nick Page, Commerical Director at Swift, explained that "the Quartet is the result of a constant demand for a four-berth van conversion that can compete with lower priced coachbuilt models."
Indeed, with the price set at £42,135, the Quartet will be just as affordable as the popular Autocruise Accent and Alto layouts.
Caravan enthusiasts looking to scope out this brand new four-berth van can see the Autocruise Quartet on display at the Manchester Caravan & Motorhome Show, which runs at Event City on 19th from 19th to 22nd January.
Tickets are on sale now for £7.95 for adults, or you can enter our latest reader competition and be in with a chance of winning one of 50 pairs of tickets.
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