Motor Caravan magazine | Autocruise Startrail review
- Monday, 8 February 2010
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Exterior features
Exterior 8/10
The new GRP overcab moulding blends well into the white sidewalls, that are constructed from tough GRP, with a 1.5mm impact-resistant finish. I was impressed by the fresh tank under the floor in the vehicle's centre, with an offside drain tap; and the waste tank is under the floor behind the rear axle, with a drain-tap exiting on the offside. It's the quality of these ‘hidden' items that can make all the difference once you get your new motorhome out of the showroom and onto a campsite.
On the road 8/10
Star Plus models benefit from a standard Al-Ko low-line chassis, which gives better road holding and stability. The Startrail's layout places heavy items such as the cooker and fridge over the centre axle aiding the stability. The 130bhp 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine copes well with the vehicle's weight and motorway cruising is easy. Quick braking needed a fairly heavy stab on the pedal, but it was new so the brake pads weren't properly bedded-in.
Practicality 9/10
For a couple the Startrail boasts a very practical layout, with a large washroom, permanent double bed, a large kitchen and lounge seating. There's also tons of storage space. The low-profile overcab moulding and low overall height also make the vehicle very practical to drive. It's quite long, so you'll be filling two spaces in the supermarket carpark!
Build quality 9/10
I think Autocruise models built under the new Swift Group ownership are of a better quality than before. Quality is seen in areas such as the metal-reinforced base for the rear double bed, plus and the precise closing action of the lockers and doors throughout the vehicle.
Read the rest of our review
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