Swift first with new Fiat Ducato

The importer of UK-built Swift RVs is one of the first to offer Australian buyers a motorhome based on the just-released 2015 Fiat Ducato cab-chassis.

Melbourne Swift dealer, the Caravan Super Centre, had on display at Melbourne Leisurefest a just-arrived Swift Escape 664 motorhome based on the latest Fiat model, which is now available across Swift Australia’s 21-strong campervan and motorhome line-up.

The 2015 Fiat Ducato features more dynamic, car-like styling, with the front of the vehicle now boasting a new grille in silver or black, plus new headlights and LED daytime running lights.

Inside the cabin a 5.0-inch multimedia screen augments an entertainment/comms system with Bluetooth connectivity, while the front-wheel drive Fiat also comes standard with electronic stability control with rollover mitigation, as well as hill-start assist complemented by optional ‘Traction+’ with hill descent control.??

The 2015 Ducato comes standard with a fuel efficient 2.3-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder producing 112kW/350Nm, matched to a six-speed automated manual transmission, or there’s an optional 3.0-litre turbo-diesel producing 130kW/400Nm which Fiat claims is the most powerful in its segment.

Offered at a ‘show special’ price of  $113,990, the 6.72m long, four berth Swift Escape 664 on display had a Tare weight of 2959kg and 541kg payload.

The compact layout features seating for six including the front swivel seats, small dinette and kitchen, combination shower/toilet and double bed, along with new Italian cabinetry, pleated windscreen blinds on double glazed windows, 12V control panel, electric entry step, air conditioning, and awning.

Like most European RVs, it also has cold-busting Grade 3 thermal insulation and Truma gas central heating, while options include a tow bar, nudge bar,
roof racks and ladder, ozone protection and reverse camera.

Also on display at Leisurefest were examples of Swift’s 10-model Explorer caravan range, boasting the latest upgrades for Australia including raised chassis (now 100mm higher ground clearance than UK models), Dometic security door, external shower outlet, 120W solar system, twin battery set-up and up to 130 litres water capacity.

Also arriving soon in Australia is the innovative new Swift Rio motorhome, which combines a campervan-style lift-up rear tailgate and rear electric drop-down bed in a motorhome-sized body.