Ideally suited to UK tastes, this looks like a winner!
SOMETIMES a new motorhome comes along that immediately just looks ‘right’. That’s all the more of a surprise, perhaps, when the ’van in question comes from a European maker but has the hallmarks of success in the UK market written all over it. But we had exactly that feeling on first sight of Rapido’s new 606F. If you want a vehicle that’s reasonably compact but undeniably spacious inside and seems ideal for a couple wanting a comfortable home on tour, this newcomer has to be on your must-see list.
As part of the 6F range, it gets a cosmetic update that modernises its looks without losing Rapido’s fairly conservative design cues. There’s a new overcab pod with a glass Skyview sunroof that now includes an electric defrosting function. At the opposite end, the redesigned rear features a red band connecting the tail-lights on either side, while the new habitation door has a waste bin and window, as well as central locking.
Inside, the cab and habitation areas merge more seamlessly, while there’s still a choice of Nacarat or Luceo schemes, the latter evolved for 2024 with added contrast. A slate grey wall in the kitchen, black trims and terracotta curtains are all part of the new cosmetics.
Whilst eminently suited to the British scene, the layout is not new – except to this Gallic brand. It is, however, one of the most popular floorplans of the moment, combining a large lounge, rear garage and exceptionally generous washroom in a modest overall size. Here, Rapido beats some of its rivals – at 6.69m long, it’s shorter but without, it seems, giving anything away inside.
But, before we go on board, we should mention some important external features, not least the twin 1.00m by 60cm garage doors and bike-friendly headroom here of 1.20m. This zone is limited to 150kg but it has (fixed) lashing points and can also be reached from inside the ’van. Note, too, on the outside the framed windows and low entrance, making access into the motorhome easier.
Once inside, it’s the spaciousness that’s the star; achieved by having the main bed rise to the ceiling when not in use. With the settee backrest and armrest cushions removed, and the table lowered electrically, the bed can come down to just 79cm off the floor (surely class-leading?). The Bultex mattress measures 1.91m by 1.46m – generous but not the biggest – and there are reading lights at the head of the bed. Just as importantly, the foot of the mattress is shaped to allow easy entrance/egress through the habitation door.
The lounge – with
