DESPITE THE NAME, McLouis is actually an Italian manufacturer of motorhomes which are sold across Europe.

The McLouis Fusion range is something altogether more special for the UK, as it was developed by McLouis and its fellow Trigano brand Auto-Sleepers to provide vehicles that are more budget-conscious and family-oriented, particularly for first-time motorcaravanners who might be tempted to move up to Auto-Sleepers later on in life.

The Fusion range was initially launched as five models, with a distinctly Continental layout and ambience, including the transverse-bed 331 and 360, two island-bed layouts in the 367 and 379, and the 373, with two single beds at the back.

These were joined last year by the 6.49m-long 330, the first McLouis Fusion model with a UK-friendly rear lounge, and one that can easily seat six people, even if the ‘van itself only sleeps four.

The 330 still manages to include a respectable amount of storage space, because there is also a small garage of sorts under the rear lounge, large enough to accommodate outdoor furniture and a folded bike.

For 2022 McLouis has upgraded the Fiat cab with the 7-inch Connect media/DAB radio system. This boasts Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and has steering wheel controls. The gearstick and steering wheel are now leather.

All six models come with the mighty Truma Combi 6E heating system. You can order one with an MTPLM of 3650kg for the best payload, but if licences are a constraint they are also approved at 3500kg. All bar the 330 and 331 also come with five belted seats. Distributed by Auto-Sleepers, McLouis Fusion is currently available from nine dealerships.

McLouis: A quick history

McLouis was born in 1999, in response to the substantial increase in the number of people wanting to experience the great outdoors.

In Italy, the company produces A-classes, low-profiles and overcabs, although so far, only low-profiles are included in the Fusion range. The firm aims for an international design that is attentive to the dictates of fashion, in terms of colours, materials and solutions.

For the past few seasons, Auto-Sleepers has teamed up with sister company McLouis to bring a new range of these luxurious Italian-designed motorhomes exclusively to the UK.

You’re in Hall 2 Continental Manufacturers at Van Live! See who else is exhibiting in this hall, or take me to the Show Guide.