The Swift Group is the UK’s leading motorhome manufacturer, responsible for some 30 per cent of all new motorhome sales. For the 2012 season, Swift has revamped the top of the range, tag-axle Kon-Tiki line-up.

 

All 2012 Swift Group models will be based on the new Euro 5 Fiat Ducato at their public launch at October’s NEC show from 11-16 October. For 2012, the Kon-Tiki range gets an exterior facelift, a graphic scheme which it shares with the Bolero. It also gets a number of interior cosmetic changes. Best of all, though, is a price drop: the range will now start at less than £70,000.

 

They’re powered by Fiat’s new 2.3-litre 150 MultiJet II engine as standard, which we’re told gives an 18 per cent improvement in fuel economy and CO2 emissions on the outgoing 3.0 litre 160 MultiJet engine. The new 3.0-litre 180 MultiJet II is a cost-option.

 

You can specify an automatic transmission, available exclusively with the larger engine – although we understand this will also become an option in early 2012 for those ‘vans powered by the smaller engines.

 

Our exclusive video review (below) features the Swift Kon-Tiki 659, with a layout that incorporates the popular French bed with transverse washroom at the rear. Up front, there’s a spacious lounge with facing sofas.

 

For our test review of the Kon-Tiki, look out for the November issue of Practical Motorhome, on sale from 28 September. And if you’d like to see the motorhomes in the flesh, head along to the Motorhome and Caravan Show at Birmingham’s NEC where they’ll be on show to the public for the first time, from 11-16 October.

 

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