Full review

There are some new options for the 2018 Smove low-profile motorhome: extended cab heating with touchscreen operation, a heat exchanger and a ceramic toilet. But the concept is still the same: liner-style quality and equipment (from a leading maker of liner-type A-class motorhomes, of course) in a uniquely stylish and more compact low-profile body.

Lengths are 6.93m with a transverse double bed or 7.43m with singles, while width is a relatively modest 2.25m – and it looks slimmer still, thanks to the svelte way in which cab and living area are merged.

This is certainly a strikingly modern vehicle from the outside. And it’s equally eye-catching on the inside. It won’t be everyone’s cup of Darjeeling but if you love it then nothing else will do.

Layouts offer a mix and match choice of rear bedroom format and a lounge with either twin settees or a single sofa and a bar layout with a third captain’s chair. This 7.4B combines twin beds in the stern with the bar layout up front; it’s our pick of the Smove line-up.

With simple, uncluttered lines for the interior, light woodwork and a kitchen that’s completely concealed with the lids folded, this motorhome has the feel of a luxurious modern apartment. Black leather for the lounge, as tested, relieved with orange highlights for the settee backrest and headrest covers, only serves to enhance the effect.

The side settee is extra-comfy, too, and the trio of captain’s chairs not only gives the Smove the potential to carry a rear passenger, but creates a format that works well for dining and relaxing, too. It’s hard to see how Niesmann could have improved this area, especially when you look up at the twin sunroofs (the rear one opening electrically and designed so that it can be left open while you drive) and see the way the white top lockers merge seamlessly into the overcab area.

The washroom is clever, too, but here it’s the way extra space is created for showering that turns a neat, simple all-in-one washroom into something altogether more innovative. The cassette loo powers away electrically (and rather sedately) into a locker alongside and the washbasin rotates to disappear from view, so the resulting spacious shower cubicle is that and only that. The toilet door also creates a partition for the en suite bedroom, with N+B’s trademark real grass illuminated highlights if you so desire.

The galley has just two rings for the hob but there’s (black glass) worktop in front and more space thanks to the flip-over cover. Drawers with electric central locking and a tall, slim 141-litre fridge with bottle drawer complete the practicalities here.

Then, of course, there’s a generous rear garage, though you might need to upgrade the 3,500kg chassis if you go wild with the options list. There’s plenty to tempt you on this motorhome, which has appeal both for those downsizing from a liner and buyers seeking a unique two-berth style statement.

If you enjoyed this review, you can read the full version and more in the February 2018 issue of What Motorhome magazine.

You can get a digital version of this latest issue of What Motorhome magazine here.