Full review

So popular did the Edition Pepper low-profiles prove in 2017 that the two special compact models have returned to the portfolio with their high-spec, high-value package for 2018. But, this season, Weinsberg has gone a step further and applied the same thinking to its CaraBus van conversions, launching the Edition Fire. With some of the most eye-catching graphics around, you certainly won’t miss them…

Based on the usual Fiat Ducato high-roof van in medium, long or extra-long forms (it’s the long one here), the Fire is not one of those van conversions that hides behind subtle metallic paint and a dearth of decals. Here, it’s the full Starsky and Hutch stripes, albeit with predominantly orange overtones on a white base vehicle.

Starsky might not be impressed by the Ducato’s 130bhp power output but most motorhomers will know that this Euro VI engine is perfectly adequate for the job in hand. And back in the late 1970s no one would have dreamed of features like the ESP, hill holder or a multi-function steering wheel – all standard fare for Fire drivers.

Also included in the price are a passenger airbag, manual cab air-conditioning, electric door mirrors, cruise control, driver and passenger seats with double armrests and height adjustment, plus a DAB+ radio with sat-nav (including camping software and three years of updates).

If the spec is surprisingly comprehensive for a low-cost imported panel van conversion, the layout has all the shock factor of Starsky landing, unharmed (again) on a car roof as he chased a felon. So, it’s fixed beds all the way.

And if, after the boldness of the exterior, you were expecting an equally striking interior, you’ll possibly be relieved to see something much more restrained. The woody furniture with contrasting off-white locker doors is simply the norm in 2018, while the duo-tone upholstery is very inoffensive. Compared with Dreamer’s new Color Edition (sic) models, it’s all very Plain Jane.

But the defining details that make all the difference in a ‘me too’ layout like this are easy to spot. Firstly, the kitchen may be in the usual location, part-way across the sliding door (still on the continental side) but the use of a combined hob/sink unit has freed up a surprisingly generous area of unobstructed worktop. And then there’s a flip-up extension leaf to rub home the advantage.

A set of five kitchen drawers shows that storage has been well thought-through, too. And, further to the rear, the 90-litre fridge is mounted up high, so access is free from any stooping or kneeling.

Opposite, the washroom has the vastly superior Dometic toilet, which is perhaps the biggest surprise, bearing in mind the budget price tag. The corner basin is good, but nothing out of the ordinary, while the opening window is another one of those features that they could have omitted but didn’t. And while you’ll need to use the curtain for showering, there are two drainholes in the tray.

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