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quoteGoing to shorter lengths?
Shorter overall vehicle lengths is just one theme from Adria for its 2020 motorhome portfolio, as it introduces a handful of shorter models with the 600 tag. This, the Sonic Axess marks an early start to its A-class line-up, with SL defining it as having single beds set over a small but highly useful garage, accessed externally from both sides.
Check mattress size, support and comfort for yourselves, of course, but do note these are the latest Luxe units from Adria, claiming natural protection against bacteria, odours and static, as well as easy-care properties.
Those permanent single beds, with their adjustable back rests, are likely to be a key reason to buy the Excess 600 SL motorhome but, of course, as an A-class, there’s also a generous pull-down double over the cab area.
But first we should address the issue of price. Adria posts a very attractive £72,865 for this, the entry-level A-class in its line-up. On top of this, you will doubtless want some of the options packs – Luxury and Safety, most likely both. Then there are Packs 1 or 2, either of which can easily be deemed essential. Add in a few other extras and you’re looking at a more realistic on-the-road price of around the £77,000 mark.
Then there’s a bit of a payload challenge. Adding these key extras eats into a not particularly generous starting payload of 422kg, so you might want to consider the no-cost chassis upgrade to 3,650kg, if your driving licence permits.
Also, all 2020 Adria motorhomes come with the latest Euro 6d engines – it’s the 2.3-litre, 140bhp unit as standard, with power upgrades and an all-new, “proper” nine-speed automatic transmission among the options. You’ll pay with price with a first year’s Vehicle Excise Duty rate of £2,165, of course, but you might feel good that you’re doing a small bit towards saving our whole planet!
Inside, there’s a modern, fresh appeal to the surroundings. All Adria’s latest motorhome kitchens now come with a grill/oven, supplemented here by a three-burners-in-a-line gas hob that is sufficiently space-efficient to allow some permanent worktop in front of it.
The hob itself is an L-shaped combination to include a sink, served by a swan neck tap, all in stainless steel.
Swish, large drawers are the main storage here, such units often preferred to lockers for their ease of access. The kitchen also benefits from a generous 142-litre capacity fridge.
It’s all very modern in the washroom, too. There’s a full shower cubicle, along with a swivel-bowl toilet, a mirrored unit, with a pull-down basin next to it.
Everything from the window (clear, but set high), to the fixed hanging rail in the shower (ideal for wet clothing), suggests practical thought has gone into the Sonic motorhome design.
Completing the floorplan is a standard format L-shaped front lounge that incorporates safe travel seating for two passengers.
Truma’s Combi 4E heating and hot water system tops a decent enough inventory of standard equipment here. But, the thinking is, you won’t be able to resist one or two of those options packs, at least.
Verdict: A-class allure. But is the price right?
Plus: Quality construction and 2020 upgrades
Minus: Essential extras bump up the price
In-a-nutshell: Sub-7m but well above par
There’s more information on the Sonic motorhome range on the Adria website. Find out more about insuring this or your current motorhome on our motorhome insurance discounts page.
Alternatives: Bürstner Ixeo I 728 G, Dethleffs Globebus I6, Pilote Galaxy G690 GJ, Rapido 855F
Adria Sonic Axess 600 SL factfile
| Model | Adria Sonic Axess 600 SL |
| Base vehicle | Fiat Ducato |
| Dimensions | 6.99m L x 2.32m W x 2.98m H |
| Berths | Four |
| Travel seats | Four |
| Maximum weight | 3,500kg |
| Payload | From 422kg |
| MPG estimate | 28-32 |
| RRP | From £72,865 on the road |
| Safety & security | Electronic immobiliser, remote central locking, ESC (electronic stability control), twin airbags |
| Key options | Luxury Pack (£3,060), Pack 2 (£2,590), Pack 1 (£1,820), Safety Pack (£890), 160bhp engine (£2,350), 180bhp engine with chassis upgrade (£5,570), automatic transmission (£2,950), solar panel (£490), metallic paint (£890), leather upholstery (£1,360) |
Putting longitudinal beds in the back takes up so much space, its nearly half the vehicle. Whilst this may be acceptable to a couple; if you add another 2 people it must be exceedingly tight for space. If you want a sub-7m motorhome, I think you are better looking elsewhere.
Overpriced and does not look to have enough storage for longer trips. FW