Video review - Auto-Sleeper Topaz
Image
Key Features
Model Year
2011
Product Class
High top
Product Model Base
Volkswagen T5
Price from (£)
£53495
Length (m)
5.29
Berths
2
Belted seats
3
Main Layout
End Washroom
Full Review
EVEN Auto-Sleepers themselves admit that Topaz is a rather niche product – more so now that its price has gone well over £50k. It’ll appeal to VW fans and those for whom car-like driving character is more important than living space.
But while the appeal of the T5 has grown with last year’s facelift, the Topaz remains a virtually unique conversion. Its best-known rival, the Bilbo’s Lezan, appears the more practical proposition but it lacks the Auto-Sleeper’s shower. Or its more traditional, more homely interior.
And when I had to pick one of our three Auto-Sleeper test ’vans to drive home one night, the decision took less than a nanosecond. When it comes to appeal from behind the wheel, the Volkswagen is second to none.
That’s especially true with the DSG gearbox, a £1680 option and the only item – apart from six exterior colours and five shades of Judy seat fabric – that Auto-Sleepers list as an extra.
DSG will be well-known to owners of recent VW cars and here it introduces a twin-clutch automatic to motorhomes for the first time. Combined with the latest 2-litre TDI engine in 140bhp tune it adds up to a relaxing, upmarket drive with unrivalled refinement.
You’ll tell the Topaz owner by the broad smile on his face when he gets out after a long drive.
A full version of this new motorhome review is published in the May issue of Which Motorhome magazine. Order your copy online easily and securely now by clicking here!
But while the appeal of the T5 has grown with last year’s facelift, the Topaz remains a virtually unique conversion. Its best-known rival, the Bilbo’s Lezan, appears the more practical proposition but it lacks the Auto-Sleeper’s shower. Or its more traditional, more homely interior.
And when I had to pick one of our three Auto-Sleeper test ’vans to drive home one night, the decision took less than a nanosecond. When it comes to appeal from behind the wheel, the Volkswagen is second to none.
That’s especially true with the DSG gearbox, a £1680 option and the only item – apart from six exterior colours and five shades of Judy seat fabric – that Auto-Sleepers list as an extra.
DSG will be well-known to owners of recent VW cars and here it introduces a twin-clutch automatic to motorhomes for the first time. Combined with the latest 2-litre TDI engine in 140bhp tune it adds up to a relaxing, upmarket drive with unrivalled refinement.
You’ll tell the Topaz owner by the broad smile on his face when he gets out after a long drive.
A full version of this new motorhome review is published in the May issue of Which Motorhome magazine. Order your copy online easily and securely now by clicking here!
