The latest in premium A-class style with a Gallic twist…
FOR 2024, Le Voyageur has replaced its Classic range with the new Eterna – a range of Fiat-based A-classes ranging from 6.80m to 8.55m in length. All use a new lower Al-Ko STC chassis that has allowed a deeper double floor and a lower centre of gravity to improve the vehicles’ handling.
The French company, part of Groupe Pilote, has also worked on reducing these motorhomes’ weight, so the smaller models (up to 7.25m) can be on 3,500kg chassis and the longer ’vans (7.55m upwards) can benefit from increased payload – or more options can be fitted, as most customers want a high-spec vehicle. This LV7.8GJF model – the longest version to have a single rear axle – has a payload in standard form of 860kg.
An example of this development is that the Eterna uses the same roof design as the Mercedes-based Héritage (launched in 2021), saving 50kg in the process. The newcomer is also designed to have a closer family resemblance to the Merc range, with a new front panel featuring a black band between the new LED headlamps.
Externally, this is a handsome vehicle with an exclusive domed roof designed to eliminate water retention and provide hail protection. Naturally, at this level of the market, there’s a heated double floor, which is 35cm deep to provide generous additional storage. Aluminium walls are used for optimal heat distribution (said to be 30% better than plywood walls) and an external hatch provides access to all the habitation electrics in a new central location. Another hatch gives access to the Alde heating and a built-in hose to fill the inboard 200-litre fresh water tank (the grey tank has a 120-litre capacity). Of course, the Eterna also has a large rear garage, claimed to be 2,800 litres in size, and this is where you’ll discover the exterior shower fitting and the mains cable, which is built in on a reel.
Inside, you know you’re in a Le Voyageur, rather than one of its German rivals, and the face-to-face seating will appeal to UK buyers, especially as the fold-in-half table increases the feeling of space. With the captain’s chairs swivelled, there’s easily room for six people here, and the optional leather upholstery (fabric or faux leather are also offered), reading lights, downlighters and net curtains all assist with the premium feel of the vehicle. Foldaway travel seats below the settees allow the Eterna to be used as a four-berth, too.
The Eterna also has a completely new design for the kitchen, where
