The Excel name is back, here with a single bed layout
THE name isn’t new (it was previously used by Auto-Trail from 2009 to 2011) but this Excel 690T is part of an all-new four-model range of Ford-based compact low-profiles for 2024. An important aspect is the 2.24m overall width and Auto-Trail says its new models are aimed at customers looking to upgrade from a campervan. Interestingly, this slimline coachbuilt sector seems to be growing – Bailey’s new Alora (see page 16) targets a similar buyer.
All Excels have a 3,500kg gross weight and yet payloads are generous (570kg for this 690T). Prices look keen, too, starting here at £64,478. However, to match the Bailey’s spec, you’ll need to add alloy wheels (£995) and cab blinds (£680). Then the Lux Pack (9.5in touchscreen with satnav and reversing camera, external barbecue point, TV aerial, Omnivent, upgraded habitation door and carpets) adds a further £1,578. And the Drivers Pack (electric/heated mirrors, automatic headlights, front fog lamps, body colour side mouldings, a heated windscreen, colour-coded front bumper, cab air-conditioning, rain-sensing wipers and cornering lights) is another £1,975. That’s a total of just under £70k, which is still less than the Alora, while the Excel has the advantage of the more powerful 170hp motor as standard.
Like the Bailey, this is a completely new design and there are practical touches like a low entrance step, opening overcab sunroof and external shower point. Inside, the Moyet Oak furniture contrasts with Serica matt grey worktops and on-trend matt black for the kitchen tap, spice rack and reading lights. You can also have the cab in a choice of five colours at no extra cost (black, silver, two greys or an attractive metallic blue). If you want an automatic it’s an extra £1,860.
On the outside, the 4m Thule awning shown here is £1,145. Water tanks are of good capacity (100 litres fresh, 80 litres waste) but both are underslung and neither is heated or insulated, although the T-handle makes for easy emptying of the grey tank.
The key exterior feature is the garage, with headroom of 1.03m and width of 98cm. There’s a strip light in the nearside corner but no tie-downs and nothing to stop the garage doors flapping in the wind.
Inside, the Excel goes for a more continental-style lounge compared with the Bailey, featuring a half-dinette. Handleless top lockers, fabric surrounds to the windows (which have pleated blinds), plenty of ambient light (some of it dimmable) and an attr
