All-new Ford-based Atlas adopts a totally new look
PILOTE was the latest marque to add Ford Transit-based low-profile motorhomes to its range when it announced the Atlas at the Stuttgart show in January. Now there’s a second layout in the new line-up and both are confirmed for sale in the UK, with the first examples due here in September.
Celebrating its 60th anniversary, Pilote has not built on Ford chassis for many years but its new Atlas range has a distinct style that is a refreshing departure from the rest of its portfolio. Described as being designed for “adventure enthusiasts seeking versatility and practicality in a compact format”, the company sees these models as appealing to campervan customers looking for more space. As such, they are slimmer than a typical coachbuilt motorhome, at 2.19m, and both layouts have a 3,500kg maximum weight and overall length of less than 7m.
Based on the Transit in Trail spec, the Atlas models have the bold grille emblazoned with ‘FORD’ branding, as well as 16in black alloy wheels fitted with all-season tyres and a mechanical limited slip differential. They come as standard with the 170PS engine and automatic transmission. The new, angular design of the overcab moulding (with sunroof) is said to echo the shape of the Ford grille, while the graphics and styling are said to give the vehicles an SUV-style appearance.
Both layouts have a spacious front lounge with side-facing sofas (converting into one forward-facing seat and one rear-facing on the nearside for travel). They each have a nearside kitchen, as well as washroom arrangements that put the shower on the nearside and the toilet and basin opposite.
It’s at the rear where the two Atlas models feel quite different. The longer A696D, which had already debuted on the Continent, has a fixed transverse double bed over a large garage. It is 6.99m long and priced at £85,000.
Its new baby brother, the Atlas A656D, is just £500 cheaper and measures 6.60m overall (see large interior image above). The main bed in this version is the electric drop-down double over the lounge (also seen in the A696G). Measuring 1.89m by 1.40m, this bed comes right down to seat height. Then, at the rear, the smaller model has a large dressing area with neat storage boxes and hanging space as well as generous room to use the ablutions facilities (with separate shower). It, too, has a rear garage.
ÉVIDENCE ADDITIONS
Like the existing Évidence range (on Fiat Ducato), the new Atlas comes with a high standard spec, so there are no factory options. Meanwhile, the Évid
