A buyer’s guide to Auto-Trail motorhomes and campervans
Auto-Trail’s range covers compact van conversions, low-profile coachbuilt motorhomes and larger touring vehicles. Names such as Expedition, V-Line, F-Line and Imala describe different parts of that selection, so it helps to organise them before comparing individual adverts.
The most productive first decision is how you want to use the vehicle between overnight stops. Frequent town visits, longer stays on one pitch and travelling with a family can lead you towards different body sizes and sleeping arrangements.
Manufacturer range pages checked on 17 October 2026. Individual specifications vary by model and year.
Key takeaways
- Expedition and V-Line are campervan families; the coachbuilt ranges need a separate comparison.
- F-Line, Excel and Imala offer different approaches to size and accommodation.
- Frontier and Grande Frontier should be assessed against parking, weight and storage needs.
- Check the full model designation and travel-seat count on every used example.
How the Auto-Trail ranges fit together
The Auto-Trail range overview lists the current families. Treat the model names in the table as a starting point, then consult the exact year’s layout.
| Range | Type or emphasis | First thing to compare |
|---|---|---|
| Expedition Van | Van-based accommodation across several layouts | Bed and storage arrangement |
| V-Line Sport | Van-based touring with different lounge options | Travel seats and rear seating |
| F-Line | Ford-based low-profile motorhomes | Size and family seating needs |
| Excel | Compact coachbuilt choices | Bedroom and garage arrangement |
| Imala | Several coachbuilt touring layouts | Lounge versus fixed-bed priorities |
| Frontier | Larger touring accommodation | Parking, load capacity and bed access |
| Grande Frontier | A-class flagship | Driving position and overall dimensions |
On smaller screens, scroll the table sideways to see every column.
Browse used motorhomes for sale and used campervans for sale separately at first. It makes the comparison clearer than putting every Auto-Trail advert into the same list.
Expedition puts the bed and equipment storage first
The current Expedition Van range includes the 54, 66, 67, 67 Flex, 68, 68XL and 68XL Flex. Auto-Trail describes the 54 as a 5.4-metre option and highlights flexible sleeping and storage arrangements across the family.
Use the full model name when asking questions. A Flex or XL suffix should prompt you to investigate exactly what moves, what stays fixed and how the luggage space changes. Ask the seller to demonstrate the interior with the bed ready for sleep and with the equipment you expect to carry.
If outdoor activities are central to your trips, measure the largest item before the viewing. A bicycle, folding table or mobility aid needs a workable loading route as well as enough space once inside.
V-Line Sport makes the lounge comparison worthwhile
V-Line Sport currently lists 610, 635 and 636 models. The 636 adds four travelling seats and a front dinette arrangement, while the family’s other descriptions place particular emphasis on lounge space.
Decide how often you’ll travel with more than two people. Extra travel positions may be essential, but they also affect how the interior is arranged. Sit in every position you expect to use and check the table and legroom with the front seats adjusted realistically.
For another campervan comparison, our Swift Merlin, Trekker and Carrera guide explains how roof beds, seating and energy systems can change the buying decision.
F-Line and Excel deserve separate test drives
The F-Line collection uses the Ford Transit platform. Excel centres on compact coachbuilt accommodation, with the 620S, 620G and 690T in the current selection. Auto-Trail lists the 620 models at 6.20 metres long.
Compare how the cab and accommodation join together. Check seat swivelling, the step into the living area and the route to the washroom. On the road, try the visibility and driving position rather than assuming a shorter vehicle will automatically feel right.
For a garage layout, inspect the loading height and door opening. Establish the permitted load and how your planned luggage affects the rear axle. An attractive raised bed is only useful if you can access it comfortably and use the storage beneath it within the vehicle’s limits.
Imala offers different ways to use the rear of the vehicle
The current Imala range includes the 615, 730, 736 and 736G. Auto-Trail describes the 730 around a rear island bed and the 736 around a rear U-shaped lounge.
That creates a useful real-world comparison. A fixed bed saves daily conversion, while a rear lounge gives you another living area before bedtime. Imagine a rainy afternoon, a late evening and an early start in both. Check which spaces remain usable when someone goes to bed first.
Older Imalas may have different body or bed options. Request the model-year floorplan and have every sleeping position demonstrated.
Frontier and Grande Frontier need space planning
Frontier includes Scout, Delaware and Comanche names in the current collection. The separate Grande Frontier GF-80 is an A-class with a rear island bed.
Before concentrating on furnishings, measure your storage location and think about the places you expect to visit. Check the complete vehicle’s length, height, turning requirements and plated limits, including any later additions.
Ask who will maintain the base vehicle and the habitation systems locally. On a used example, a detailed service and repair record gives you a better basis for comparison than a long list of original features.
What to ask before viewing a used Auto-Trail
Request the full model name, year, engine, gearbox, travel seats, berths and a weight-plate photograph. Ask which accessories are included and whether any electrical, seating or bed arrangements have been modified.
Read our habitation-check guide before assessing the living area. If you’re comparing manufacturers too, the Swift motorhome range guide provides another way to organise family and couples’ layouts.
Finish the shortlist with two arrangements you can test properly. Making a bed, loading a locker and sitting at the table will tell you more about the right Auto-Trail than collecting another set of exterior photographs.
