Verdict
This is a dedicated two-berth for dedicated motorcaravanners. This ’van is aimed at those who prefer to sleep in single beds (usually). Have a think about the 5.99m version before signing on the dotted line.
Pros
Excellent storage.
Good kitchen.
Choice of twin-single beds or a double
Wheelchair-friendly access through side door
Manufacturer has an excellent reputation
Cons
Rear washroom is small
Toilet offers very little room for thighs and elbows, since it’s placed between the sink pedestal and the wall
Murvi Motorcaravans recently unveiled its extended version of the well-received Morocco. Practical Motorhome takes a look.
Previously we’ve met both the extra-long Fiat Ducato panel van and the Murvi Morocco; but this is the first time they’ve joined forces.
By way of an introduction, a few words should help to clarify Ducato’s nomenclature of its base vehicles. The LWB (long wheelbase) high-top Ducato has a wheelbase of 4.014m (13’3”) and an overall length of 5.99m (19’8”). The XL Ducato is still built on the same 4.04m wheelbase but has a greater overall length of 6.36m (20’11”). The latter is often mis-described by the light commercial vehicle trade and the press alike as being an XLWB (extra long wheelbase) van whereas in fact it is an XL LWB van.
It’s important to differentiate because we’ve recently heard of the XL being slated as being much more difficult to manoeuvre than its slightly shorter relative. This is not the case because the two share the same kerb-to-kerb turning circle. However, it is longer and will therefore require more space on your drive or in the supermarket car park.
The driving force behind Murvi is Rex Kneebone. His company is based in Ivybridge, South Devon, and must have won more trophies and awards for design-and-build than any other UK manufacturer. Nevertheless, he remains a hands-on proprietor, listening to his customers’ suggestions and carefully evaluating them before including, modifying, or rejecting them.
Price from £50,623 (£54,888 as tested)
Sleeps Two
Seats Two
Base vehicle Fiat Ducato
Engine 2.3-litre 150bhp TD (130bhp std)
L/W/H 6.36m/2.57m/2.05m (20’11”/8’5”/6’9”’) MTPLM 3500kg Payload 400kg Water (fresh/waste) 73/45 litres Battery 2x115Ah Gas 25-litre tank (10kg)
Living
Soft furnishing fabrics in the lounge are classy and understated. Armrests on the cab seats are a cost option (£200 when new). Avtex TV is part of a £550 upgrade pack.
There’s a choice of two tables for two! One sits on a pedestal leg, the other is freestanding… so perfect for alfresco dining.
On cooler days, you’ll appreciate the very powerful dual-fuel (diesel/
230V) 8kW Webasto Dual Top boiler with blown-air heat distribution.
Kitchen
The spacious kitchen is along the nearside of the ‘van, opposite a large wardrobe, and leads to the rear washroom. There’s a great galley in the kitchen. Efficient use of space, plus a good worktop and natural light, pushes all the buttons. A choice of hobs, ovens and fridges is available. The furthest forward section of the worktop can be raised into position to provide a cantilever table for those needing to sit at tasks.
A CO detector, smoke detector, fire extinguisher, fire blanket, first-aid kit, warning triangle and spare ’van bulbs are all standard
Washroom
The rear washroom has sliding windows, which can allow through ventilation when in transit. It’s a great washroom but there’s not much thigh room on the toilet for those of us built for comfort rather than speed. Separate cupboards for each motorcaravanner’s toiletries should avoid a major falling out. There’s also a large opening rooflight.
Beds
Two comfortable but differently-sized single beds either side of the central aisle can be slid together to make a huge double.
The nearside single bed measures 1.78m x 0.685m (5’10” x 2’3”) and the offside single bed is 1.94m x 0.84m (6’4” x 2’9”).
Storage
Space in the sofa base – which becomes the nearside bed – can be accessed at any time. It’s ideal for duvets or sleeping bags.
Lined overhead lockers above the lounge/bedroom have removable shelves to optimise storage. Taller motorcaravanners may wish for a 90-degree opening.
The ‘van has opening rear doors, housing a useful and secure storage space at the rear, lined and fitted with adjustable height shelving and an overhead light.
Panel van conversions’ sliding side doors give easy access for all, in particular for wheelchair users via ramps or a lift.
Technical Specifications
| Payload | 400 kg |
| MTPLM | 3500 kg |
| Shipping Length | 6.36 m |
| Width | 2.57 m |
