WildAx has launched the Elara, a new luxury high-top campervan based on the latest Mercedes Sprinter.

This new 7m-long camper is based on the rear wheel-drive Sprinter 316; that means you get the 160bhp engine as standard. WildAx generally includes a lot of options on its campers and this model is no exception, with alloy wheels, metallic paint, air-con, sat-nav, parking sensors and rear view cameras all fitted.

Although the manual is standard, the launch model came fitted with the 7G automatic gearbox option. It is actually expected that most customers will order an Elara with this gearbox. As Duncan Wildman, the MD of WildAx says, “I think everyone will take it. It just drives completely differently and I know everyone says this, but it feels very car like.”

On board you’ll find a rear double bed, set lengthways rather than across. This allows access from the foot for both occupants. You can also get two singles here, instead, with an infill mattress at the head of the bed, as is found in coachbuilts with this layout.

The kitchen and washroom are located in the centre of the van. The former has a gas/induction hob, low-set oven/grill, tall fridge freezer and microwave, while the latter offers a combined shower and toilet compartment. The front lounge combines a small sofa and the twin swivel cab seats.

The interior is completely new and different to that found in other WildAx models. Curved furniture and things like the teardrop-shaped washroom basin have all been custom-made specifically for this model. Other details include the 120-litre onboard fresh water tank (under the bed) and 40-litre underslung LPG tank, while the Type Approval process for this motorhome is almost complete.

Duncan adds, “This is the start of our premium range.” The company’s tagline of ‘An A-class in a panel van’ seems to say it all.

Prices start from £68,995 although the options list is short so prices are not likely to go much more than this. Factor in the automatic and then choose if you want a solar panel, awning, bike rack and leather upholstery.