Full review

The first thing you’ll probably notice about this 2018 Tribute coachbuilt is the white cab. The previous silver metallic scheme has gone, though you can still upgrade to metallic grey at extra cost. It’s all part of a plan to reduce the cost of Auto-Trail ownership. And, yes, we said ‘Auto-Trail’ and not Tribute

Just as Swift has slowly dissolved its sub-brands, its rival from the opposite side of the Humber estuary seems to have emerged from the same marketing classes. So, Tributes are still the most affordable motorhomes to emerge from the newly expanded Grimsby factory but they are now Auto-Trail Tributes. That should give them a bit more credibility in the marketplace.

The range of seven layouts is unchanged, too, though the predominantly overcab body style is becoming slightly anachronistic in 2018. Floorplans include predictable favourites like a rear lounge, French bed and two permutations of twin lounges, but this T-726 goes for the family favourite of rear bunks at the nearside.

Inside there are new worktops and new upholstery (called Tia), but the real story is reduced internal spec to go with that new all-white exterior. Tribute coachbuilt prices now start at £42,050, while lower weight means five seatbelts are now possible on a 3,500kg chassis for the first time here.

Of course, while hire fleets may relish the ‘keep it simple’ approach, retail buyers may want to luxuriate in a bit more style. So, you can opt for a Driver’s Pack at £1,499 to add cab air-conditioning, cruise control, steering wheel controls for radio/phone, a passenger airbag, spare wheel, driver and passenger seat swivels and a colour reversing camera. Then, if you want a few more creature comforts in the living area, a further £1,499 buys the Lux Pack. That comprises a fitted microwave, upgraded door with central locking, window, waste bin and umbrella, Remis cab blinds, 230V heating and hot water (instead of gas only), a three-speed roof fan, an electric step, carpets and a TV aerial.

Our view is that the Driver’s Pack is a must-have but the Lux Pack you might forgo if your original plan was to buy used. Even if you order both packs, though, Auto-Trail says the total vehicle price is lower than for an equivalent 2017 model!

As with last year’s T-726 you can opt for an L-shaped lounge or a pullman dinette up front (as shown here), with the latter offering the possibility of six seatbelts.

The washroom includes a separate shower – a welcome plus in a British budget ’van – and the galley comes with a half-height oven/grill and three-burner hob. Other features include the caravan-style gas fire, which looks very dated but can provide a silent trickle of warmth at night.

If you enjoyed this review, you can read loads more like it in the latest issue of What Motorhome magazine.

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