Rapido concentrated more on revamped interiors for 2019, but things have moved up a step for 2020. In addition to new models across the firm’s ranges, there’s also a new Mercedes-based A-class line-up.
There have also been a number of smart technological innovations, including an all-new heating design in the brand’s Distinction and Mercedes-based motorhomes.
FROM VANS TO A-CLASS
Three models now make up the Ducato-based Vans range, all high-top van conversions. Out goes the V43 and in comes the V62, which has a French corner bed and corner washroom. This floorplan has a real coachbuilt feel; so much so, that Rapido calls it a ‘low-profile campervan’. Like all of Rapido’s Fiat-based models, Vans are fitted with the latest 6D-TEMP engines.
Serie 6F is the next range up, and this year, features five low-profile Ducato-based coachbuilts ranging in length from 6.79m to 7.49m. Two new layouts make their debut – the compact 6.79m 656F, with an unusual offset rear island bed and washroom alongside, and the more traditional island-bed floorplan of the 686F. All Serie 6 models have facing sofas in the front lounge, allowing for plenty of room for relaxation.
There’s one new model in the six-strong Fiat-based Serie 8F A-class line-up, the 856F. This features the same offset island bed as the 656F. The Fiat/Al-Ko-based 80dF five-model A-class range, meanwhile, also gets one new layout: the 7.2m 8086dF, which has a traditional island bed as well as the facing sofas that are now prominent across Rapido’s entire line-up.
Next is the seven-strong Distinction A-class range, which again gets a new island-bed model; in this case, the i86.
But it’s at the top of Rapido’s 2020 line-up where the biggest change has happened, with the arrival of the two-model Serie M Mercedes-Benz/Al-Ko-based A-class range.
Sadly, neither was at the launch earlier this summer but we look forward to stepping inside the fixed-rear-bed M66 and the island-bed M96.
Rapido also continues to offer its Premium Edition models for 2020, featuring special branding, unique fabrics, a living room skylight and more.
Other tech developments include a clever heating system (in the 8065dF, 8066dF, 8096dF, i66, i96 and M) distributing warmth via the living room table leg.
New upholstery and furniture colour schemes have been introduced, as has a new, more simple way of converting the side sofas into belted travel seats.
All UK models will have special Brit-friendly kit, including an oven; some will also get a three-burner hob, Truma Combi 6EH heating and more.
ITINEO ALTERNATIVES
Itineo is Rapido’s budget sub-brand, but over the years, these models have been refined, and today, they represent a classy alternative to entry-level rivals.
For 2020, there will be 10 A-class models featuring a variety of layouts, including some that are very family-friendly. Aside from a few specification tweaks across the range, there’s one new layout, the four-berth, 7.43m RC740. It features a transverse island bed in front of a large, full-height storage area along the rear wall.
The two 7.4m low-profiles are Citroën-based, and there’s one new layout. The island-bed PM740 is joined by the PJ740, which has a central washroom and fixed rear single beds.
DREAM TIME
Finally comes Rapido’s Dreamer sub-range of van conversions. This range has always included some interesting products, and 2020 will be no exception.
For the upcoming season, there will be three new Fun models (taking the total in that range to five). These are the D53, offering double bunk beds at the back; the rear-bed D55 Exclusive; and the extraordinary Camper Five model – this packs five sleeping and travel berths into its 6.36m length. All Fun models are based on the Fiat Ducato.
There are also seven Dreamer Select models, all of which (the latest Ford Transit-based Cap Land aside) are built on the Ducato.
Various different layouts will be available in this range, but our favourite by far was the UK-friendly Living Van (see below).
All Rapido Group UK prices had yet to be announced as we went to press.
OUR PICK: DREAMER LIVING VAN
We loved the four-berth Dreamer Living Van, with its UK-friendly rear lounge – the one we tested was even right-hand drive. This is a cleverly designed and smart campervan with a good level of kit, and there’s a drop-down double bed over the cab, too – no need to make up that rear bed each night. There’s even a separate shower cubicle, and plenty of space for five to dine in comfort.
All Serie 6 models have facing sofas in the front lounge, allowing for plenty of room for relaxation