by Joe Jeffrey
Two new models and exciting updates heading to the Rio range for 2016
Swift has extended its Rio motorhome range, launched last year, with the addition of two new compact models.
First up, the two seater, two berth, low-line Rio 310, with parallel front lounge with side kitchen and rear washroom with separate shower should provide everything required for a couple wishing to escape. Meanwhile, the four seater, two berth, low-line Rio 325 provides a travelling dinette with side washroom and kitchen, as well as a fixed rear transverse bed which can be electronically operated in order for it to be raised to maximise garage space beneath. A new bike rack fixing on the rear to allow for the easy mounting of a bike rack will feature on both models.
The Rio two seater two berth 320, with side kitchen and washroom and rear parallel lounge, and the four seater, four berth Rio 340 will remain within the range for the new season.
2016 will also see the addition of Swift’s SMART Plus intelligent construction system on all Rio models, featuring a number of key enhancements. These include: a new sandwich floor construction with a GRP outerskin providing greater protection and durability from the elements; and upgraded hail resistant roof; and a front window jig which will feature full GRP and foam construction.
The Swift Rio 310 and 325 will be six metres in overall length, whilst the 320 and 340 are 6.4 metres long as per last year. All models are 2.26 metres with the mirrors folded.
Other additions to the Rio range include a new DAB radio and 100W solar panel, as well as a new 12V socket and USB socket – handy for the new dash mounted tablet holder.
With the new season in mind, new graphics will also come as standard, in an attempt by Swift to appeal to the whole family, as well as tinted Seitz C8 windows, LED running lights and front marker lights, and front and rear valances on side skirts to add to the sporty look Swift has gone for.
Moving inside to the interior in a little more depth, the furniture is in ‘Aralie Sen’ woodgrain for 2016, alongside new gloss upper locker doors, with smoked inlays, complementing the ‘Loxley’ soft furnishings, whilst the washroom fittings have seen an update as have what’s in the kitchen.
A new digital control panel has been fitted to control the heating and hot water, with the option to upgrade to Truma’s iNet box to allow for remote control and monitoring of the Truma boiler heating system.
All models will come with a TRACKER Retrieve Thatcham approved tracking system (category 7) as standard, along – of course – with Swift’s 10-year body integrity warranty.
All models will be powered by the Fiat 2.3 litre, 130bhp Euro5+ turbo disel engine with 6-speed gearbox, weighing in at 3.5 Tonnes. A fiat Comfort-Matic automatic gearbox is also available as an option to those looking to steer away from a manual drive.
The Rio range was launched last season to offer coachbuilt luxury in the size of a panel van, proving popular to first time motorhomers and those looking for a compact motorhome alike.
