Full review

This low-profile newcomer is the first time Rapido has fitted a two singles/end washroom configuration into one of its 6-Series models. It gets and Alde heating system too, that adds up to 50kg over a typical Truma set-up. That’s a lot of payload, but the dividend will be real comfort.

Right-hand drive models coming to our shores will have a UK Pack as standard, with a combined grill/oven and floor carpet.

Plenty of manufacturers now offer this format, so it’s subtle differences, like the rear seat head restraints that slot down when not needed to provide just a bit more through-view, that add up to something.

As far as exterior appearances are concerned, it’s minor changes all round. There’s a new rear bumper, in grey to match the side skirts, although the rear corner reflectors look vulnerable.

Performance and economy are as you’d expect from a Fiat Ducato base with wide-track rear axle and the standard 130bhp engine. If you want to spend more, add to the living facilities rather than the base vehicle. In the cab, Rapido has retained the old central glovebox - far more practical, surely, than the new arrangement with cup holders. Based on this example, Rapido can offer a pretty rattle-free drive, too.

But I’m not sure Rapido has quite got things right in the lounge. First, the fixed pedestal leg simply seems to get in the way, although UK spec includes a tabletop that folds in half, so it’s less intrusive. But the stepped floor means that, despite all seat heights being pretty much the same, there’s a step down between the settee and the half-dinette. I’d also prefer a bit more support to the lounge seating. But the fit and finish here is excellent. Heavy-duty curtains go around the cab to make things that bit cosier at night. No complaints, either, about the number (eight) and quality of scatter cushions supplied.

A new furniture finish featured here is called Elegance and is a variation of the ‘warm wood’ that has been so successful for Rapido and its British clientele. Last season’s Montalcino is also on offer.

Upholstery is unlikely to offend, either, and again there’s a choice. Here, it’s a striped Honfleur with faux-leather trim, a no-cost alternative to the standard Valetta.

Complementing this are fittings like the TV locker, designed to take a 21in monitor that is best viewed from the swivelled cab seats. And there’s loads of lighting - all LED, except for the cooker extractor unit.

The UK spec oven and grill goes where there’s a very useful deep drawer, so you’re going to lose some storage. Ironically, the 149-litre fridge/freezer across the corridor is set low enough to accommodate a grill/oven above it. Instead, you get the TV locker.

The black sink and hob covers look modern, and there’s a recess to the bulkhead between the kitchen and the rear travel seat that includes a vital extra few inches of worktop. The locker under the sink has a deep drawer as well as recesses for three bottles to stow upright.

Other neat touches include the illuminated panel to the right of the vehicle’s single 230V socket and a double USB. There are also a couple of 12V sockets. But I’m not convinced the kitchen roll holder over the gas ring is such a good idea.

We do like a proper washroom window in the UK - and that’s practically the only thing the 665F lacks. There is however excellent storage across the back wall. There’s plenty of elbow-room in the rectangular step-in shower cubicle. Ecocamel’s water-saving, soft-delivery showerhead is a new fitting for Rapido, and the only quibble is the single plughole in the tray, although the moulding is angled to suit its location.

A swivel-bowl toilet and a wardrobe take up the offside. And still there’s some changing room space. The pull-out clothes drier will definitely come in handy, as will the towel rail on the back of the door.

The beds are long (an identical 6ft 6in each), comfortable and wide enough for most, and you can sit upright. There are shallow shelves with deep lips nearby, but they’re not quite wide enough to take a glass of water.

There’s also a token single third berth in the lounge.

Payload is pretty good, at nigh on 500kg. But the washroom and bedroom arrangement precludes a large external storage area. You’ll need to be a bit judicious about your choice of outdoor chairs, but there is exterior access to both of the under-bed areas, while indoors overhead lockers are more than generous. A second wardrobe hangs over the foot of the nearside bed, where its angled design means it’s not as obtrusive as some.

Using a motorhome where everything comes together so well like this is something that augurs well. This is an excellent example of a layout that is surely set for increasing popularity.

This is an abridged version of the full review appearing in the November 2015 issue of What Motorhome.