Full review

The Distinction is the top-of-the-tree for Rapido, with a redesigned range for 2018 now available in three lengths: 7.54m (two-digit model numbers), 7.99m (three digits) and now 8.79m (four digits) on a tag-axle chassis. Each comes with a choice of single beds or an island bed and here we have the double bed version in the least substantial body.

That means that it can, just, be had with a licence-friendly 3,500kg gross weight, but only if you go for Truma rather than Alde heating. And only if you pack light – the 3,700kg and 4,400kg options are much more realistic in terms of the payload available, especially bearing in mind the large garage and double floor. All Distinction models sit on an Al-Ko chassis with a true double floor. There are external hatches, as well as panels in the floor inside, to access the 200mm deep locker space. A full-width LED strip light allows you to find what you’re looking for, too.

A further plus is a flat floor from the cab right through to the bedroom. The garage is limited to 150kg but comes with two full-sized doors, a mains power point, exterior shower and an electric waste water valve. Most importantly, the bed is height-adjustable – at the flick of a switch – to raise the internal space from 0.90m to 1.20m.

The range has its own distinctive styling with a unique grille and a roof that curves over to meet the sides, for a less boxy appearance. In the i96 you also get Premium Edition spec as standard, with Scorpion alloy wheels. The Premium Edition includes the Executive Pack as standard, so that’s a reversing camera, multi-media unit, a display showing remaining leisure battery time, a cab door, a memory foam mattress topper for the rear bed, a thermal pleated windscreen blind, ESP, Traction+, Hill Descent Control, front foglamps, rear corner steadies and chrome-ringed instruments.

Combined with the open-plan, side-facing settees, the folding table makes for a very spacious motorhome. That impression is enhanced by the L-shaped galley being reversed, so that there’s more floorspace here. The lounge is great for four but could seat six and the settees have been shaped to allow the captain’s chairs (with tiltable squabs and integral belts) to fully rotate, while the galley comes with large centrally locked drawers and a three-burners-in-line hob. UK-spec models will replace one of the drawers seen here with an oven/grill. Whether you opt for the classical Elegance furniture shown or the lighter, more contemporary Castello, the upper doors are in high-gloss white finish.

In the bedroom there are individual tip-up mattress sections, while curved doors close off the bedroom for the en suite. The bed measures 1.93m by 1.57m. Even the dashboard area has a premium feel, while two-lens bus-type mirrors give good rearward visibility. Throughout, this motorhome feels special but it doesn’t require you to fork out a fortune on options as you would with German rivals.

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