By William Coleman
As we head into a new world of touring and staycation holidays, CaravanTimes feels a responsibility to bring you many different van types to look at. This month’s touring van is the impressive V-Line 660 S from Auto-Trail.
Each year Auto-Trail tries to improve upon the previous version of the V-Line range to keep up with the ever-changing holiday habits of the UK staycationer. This year brings a few improvements to the line-up that makes the 660 S a very enticing option for those who want an action-packed weekend or an extended touring trip.
This practical two-berth model comes with two seat belts, so it does cater more for couples than families. It is easy to see why Auto-Trail has aimed the 660 S at the active younger crowd who enjoy compact and energetic touring.
Driving
The first thing that stands out about the V-Line 660 S just how easy it is to drive. Having been built on a Fiat Ducato, you know you are going to get a high level of driving quality.
As standard, all the engines in the V-Line range are 140BHP, so carrying the onboard weight of the living area feels effortless.
As much as we have enjoyed using automatic models recently, there is something to be said about having a well made Euro six-speed manual gearbox to play with. You can feel the performance of the engine when shifting gears and it makes hills and narrow lanes so much easier to manoeuvre through.
Exterior
There are not a huge amount of changes to the exterior this year, but those little changes do stand out.
Exterior decals are subtle enough to be noticed but not stand out like an eyesore. Some manufacturers out there seem to get a little too happy with the external printing.
An optional bike rack is available that will hold two bicycles, which we can see being a popular extra throughout 2021. As standard, this model will come off the factory line with an exterior awning fitted.
One more handy bit of tech is the electric step to help you get in and out the van. We may have forgotten to roll it out one morning and stepped out without realising.
Day and night living
Practicality is the best word to describe the inside of the 660 S. During the day you have a spacious rear lounge with two large benches that can either be made into two single beds or a large double come evening time.
The great thing about the rear lounge is that it flows nicely to the two barn style doors at the back of the van. Once they are open the van takes on a totally different feel. You can sit in bed with an amazing view of your surroundings.
Dining options are limited due to the size of the van, but the comfort of the two benches with a removable table in the middle is perfect for a comfy evening meal or breakfast before heading out.
Storage has been expanded this year with additional space under the benches that can store bedding or heavier goods, like extra tinned food or items that are not needed too often. The cupboard size is plentiful but the storage under the hob is not amazing.
Washroom and kitchen
Campervans sometimes struggle with washroom space and they can feel quite uncomfortable. However, Auto-Trail has managed to utilise the limited chassis space without compromising the bathroom. Yes, it is compact, but there is enough space to be comfortable and not feel restricted or too confined.
The cooking area is quite spacious and has a new design this year. You have more than enough space and work surfaces that you won’t be piling things up and struggling to prep and cook at the same time.
As always, you have hobs, an oven and grill at your disposal and enough plug sockets for a kettle or toaster.
Tech and gadgets
This model features the new 4.7kW Whale gas/220v heating and hot water system with an i-Van intelligent control panel. This system looks very different from previous years and could become the new norm for Auto-Trail moving forward.
The cab features aircon, driver and passenger airbags, steering wheel controls and cruise control with speed limiter functions.
Should you require a good internet connection while away, you can add motorhome Wi-Fi at an extra cost.
If you want some handy driving and tech extras you can opt for the new Lux Pack, which includes an eight-inch Zenec touch screen with a full colour reversing camera.
Verdict
With an on the road price of around £45,556, there is a lot that makes the 660 S an exceptional van. The pricing is competitive considering the high specifications the basic version comes with.
This is not the best van for families due to the belt and berth number, but for couples or friends who want to see more of the UK and take part in leisure activities, it is absolutely spot on.
There are extras to choose from that are great to have but as standard, this is an all-round camper that will serve the new love of touring well.
