Yucon 63 G high-top campervan

A new name in campervans has arrived in the UK

Words & photos: Peter Vaughan

The Yucon 63 G

The Yucon name was first seen on a campervan built by Frankia four years ago but it’s only now, in the 2024 season, that these vehicles are arriving here care of SMC Motorhomes in Newark. 

Initially, we expected only the Mercedes-based models, primarily with four-wheel drive, to be UK-bound but they’ve been joined a line-up of more affordable Fiat Ducato campervans.

There’s a key difference, too, in that the Mercs are designed and built in Germany, whereas the Fiats come from Pilote’s factory in France. 

There are four models in the Ducato-based line-up: 54 B (medium-wheelbase, rear double bed), 60 B (a longer version), 63 H (extra long with the extra-high roof and an electric up/down rear bed) and this single bed layout, the 63 G. 

As the number implies, this one’s built on the longest, 6.36m, derivative of Fiat’s panel van. All models come as standard on the 3,500kg Ducato Light van with 140hp engine.

The options

The 180hp motor is offered in combination with the automatic gearbox, but it’s a pricey addition at £5,192. The model shown here not only featured that but metallic paint (£952), a colour-coded front bumper (£347), and 16in alloy wheels (£605). 

Then there’s the Interior Luxury Pack (£347 – leather steering wheel with radio controls, keyless starting, digital speedo, induction phone charger), the 9in Media Pack (£1,212 – DAB radio with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and front and rear speakers) and Relax Pack (£1,549 – awning and bike rack). 

The exterior

Externally, though, this is a discreet campervan with subtle silver and black graphics against the Iron Grey backdrop and flush-fitting habitation windows. 

The interior

Inside, it’s the classic continental approach that majors on a rear bedroom with lengthways single beds. It’s a two-berth as standard, but you can add a third bed in the lounge (£389) or a pop-top (with 2.00m by 1.35m double bed). 

The half-dinette lounge incorporates two belted rear travel seats (nicely ergonomically shaped ones) and Isofix is available here as an option (£424).

The storage

As always, a key part of a camper like this is the storage accessed through the rear barn doors. Here, there’s a gas locker on the nearside, a small cupboard on the offside and the 110-litre fresh water tank is inboard in this zone. 

The central stowage space measures 81cm wide and 78cm high but in this demo model much of it was filled by the extra cushions for the front bed. 

The décor 

If you’ve ever had a close look at the Premium versions of Pilote’s  Van range, this Yucon will look very, very familiar – even the black cloth and faux leather upholstery is the same. 

That’s no bad thing, however, because there’s plenty to like here and the design feels both contemporary and quite automotive in style. 

There’s no overcab sunroof but you do get a full-height walk through into the cab and a push-up Heki rooflight over the dinette for daylight and ventilation.

The kitchen

The kitchen appears compact but is one of the best features here. It looks neat with its combination of grey and white cabinetwork but there are surprises in store.

Firstly, the way the worktop over the sink slides forward to reveal shelves and a bottle rack while also increasing preparation space for the cook. Then there’s the plethora of drawers, including provision of a waste bin. 

And while the waist-height 84-litre compressor fridge doesn’t allow a clear line of sight through the campervan, it does make for more convenient access. Then, below that, is an optional oven – a rare find in a model like this (although it doesn’t include a grill). 

The washroom

There’s more clever design in the washroom, where the bench cassette loo slides away to create more room for showering and storage includes elasticated straps to keep things in place. 

All the rest

The rear beds (each 1.86m long) are very easy to access via a central pair of steps and the spec includes Truma Combi 4 heating and twin leisure batteries.

Where to buy

Yucon is the latest addition to the portfolio of Newark-based dealer, SMC Motorhomes. That’s no surprise, as SMC is also the sole importer for Frankia, as well as being a Pilote dealer.