Van of the Month: Weinsberg CaraBus 541MQ

April 30, 2019

GERMAN-BUILT CAMPERVAN PERFECT FOR EVERY DAY DRIVING & CAMPERVAN ADVENTURES

Weinsberg may not be a celebrity in the world of motorhome manufacturers, but their intelligent design and quality manufacturing mean it should be a strong contender for your shortlist. Whilst Weinsberg begins to make its entry into the UK, the brand has been making waves across Europe as the competitively priced sister of Knaus motorhomes. Part of the Knaus-Tabbert group and manufactured in the same factory as Knaus in Bavaria, it’s clear that Weinsberg is not a brand to dismiss.

Knaus motorhomes are synonymous with quality, and they haven’t forgotten this in their design and build of Weinsberg motorhomes.

Whilst Knaus-Tabbert categorises Weinsberg as their entry-level range, there is no compromise on quality with all models built with durability and safety in mind without compromising on style, practicality and comfort.

OVERVIEW

Key Facts

Chassis: Fiat Ducato | Engine: Diesel 130Bhp | Length: 5.41M | Width: 2.05M | Height: 2.58M | Weight: 2.47T | Sleeps: up to 3 | Travels: 4 | Includes: Electric Front Step, Cruise Control, Air Con, Sat Nav & Rear-View Camera

The Weinsberg CaraBus 541MQ is a two-berth short wheel base panel van conversion with an optional dinette bed suitable for a child or small adult. Its compact design with popular continental layout and rear transverse bed is a far reach from the large over-cab motorhomes but with the flexibility of being an everyday vehicle thanks to its size.

The 541MQ Fiat Ducato base comes with rear/front axle stabiliser, central locking and the usual ABS, ESP and power-steering included.

What’s special about the Weinsberg models for sale through Camperco, is the bespoke specification that has been created at the factory level. The specification includes integrated Satellite Navigation, DAB+ radio, Cruise Control, Reversing Camera, twin Leisure Batteries and Scotchguard stain resistant fabrics something which other brands including AutoTrails V-Line range don’t offer as standard.

For VW enthusiasts, this van may not be on the radar because of the lack of Volkswagen badge, but rest assured, the German build quality remains in Weinsberg. What’s more, you get an on board shower and toilet, and you can heat, store, cook and travel for the same price as a new Volkswagen T6 van conversion.

DESIGN & BUILD

As with most of the Weinsberg range, the CaraBus 541MQ comes with a simple exterior, coupled with decals and the accentuated side profile with the recognisable Weinsberg Swish.

At 5.41M, it fits onto a standard driveway and car park space, meaning you can park closer to the front door of a supermarket and without the need to take up two spaces. However, the biggest selling point for the 541MQ is the amenities aboard this compact panel van conversion. Despite the 5.41M length, it still comes with a full quota of facilities that would be seen in a 6 metre panel van giving a competitive advantage over similar models. Driver conveniences allow you to stay connected, charged and cool with the series of connections and controls at your fingertips.

Weinsberg have always made intelligently designed storage solutions, making use of all the space in the living and sleeping areas and it’s evident even in the most compact of its range. Under-bed and over-bed storage, a half wardrobe with hanging rail and easy-close kitchen drawers with cutlery insert to stow away all of your kitchen utensils set it apart from its competitors.

Thick, 16mm walls with generous insulation, built in frost protection which auto-activates in cold temperatures and a gas locker suitable for 2x 6kg gas bottles makes the CaraBus 541MQ the perfect companion for year-round travelling no matter the weather.

LIVING & DINING AREA

The interior still remains more than adequate to live in, with plenty of natural light. When it’s time for a peaceful slumber under the stars, all windows (roof or otherwise) come with blackout curtains or blinds to help you drift off to dreamland that bit quicker.

The living space seats four, two in the captain swivel seats and two in the dinette bench (also belted for secure, safe travelling on the road). The separate dinette area means there’s no need to build or take down a bed. The large dining area window and appealing wooden fixtures making the interior feel fresh.

The soft-touch materials and Oregon Ash interior sets it apart from the competition with AutoTrails V-Line noticeably less superior with a light oak wood finish, which makes the interior look dated. The off-white walls and ceilings contrasted with the cabinets and furniture make it feel far superior in relation to the price tag and the sturdy fittings make it feel robust especially in comparison to competitors like the popular Adria Twin 540.

At the sliding habitation door, a fly screen allows you to let the fresh air in and keep the insects out as you enjoy the breeze, dining al fresco. Weinsberg include this feature as a necessary fixture for continental travel and for the British Summertime across the UK.

Camperco also fits all 541MQ models with Scotchguard stain-resistant fabrics to protect against the usual camper life. 240V sockets with USB connection and twin dedicated leisure battery with exterior electric connection means you can stay charged and connected while on the road.

KITCHEN

The kitchen is equipped with a 65L Fridge/Freezer, stainless-steel sink and auto ignition 2-burner gas hob. This is complemented with three ball bearing mounted drawers, 240v socket outlets and an extendable countertop, to offer valuable extra space for preparing dinner. There is also a handy storage area under the dinette bench which is great for storing bottles and cans.

The internal controls for heating and lighting are centrally positioned above the kitchen hob, providing ease-of-access to control the temperature or add light to the interior.

The interior is also finished with ambient lighting throughout, including kitchen area spotlights and dining area uplighting helping to create that romantic ambience for a dinner with a view.

BATHROOM

The bathroom has a mix of wooden and white plastic finishes with a Thetford cassette toilet and multi-function tap and shower head. This is complemented by a vanity mirror and recessed shower tray to help avoid any spills! The bathroom door is hinged and feels much sturdier in comparison to tambour or sliding doors in similar competitor models.

SLEEPING

The 541MQ has one of the largest beds in panel vans under 6 metres. The semi-permanent bed is transverse across the rear of the van, separate to the dinette area, meaning you don’t have to make it up every night. The bed utilises the entire width of the vehicle at 194cm long and 138cm/125cm wide. It is larger than a standard UK double bed, so you’re guaranteed extra space for your slumber. The flexible, ultra-think foam mattresses are not to be underestimated across the Weinsberg range and ensure a good night’s sleep no matter the location. The two rear windows and the roof window at the bed means you can use this area to chill out and relax with a good book or magazine before setting out on your next adventure. Don’t miss the power sockets and reading lights creating a perfect ambient atmosphere for an evening’s rest.

Unlike the AutoTrail V-Line, the 541MQ has incredible storage under the bed because the area doesn’t double as your living & dining area. The bed can be folded into three segments providing full walkthrough access and allows you to stow two bikes with four anchor points to help keep them in place. What’s more, you can relax alfresco by throwing open the rear barn-style doors and look out into nature or use them to have unfettered access to the storage area and gas locker.

At the front, the dinette area table drops to create an optional spare bed which is 145cm long and 75 cm wide equated more to a camping bed which would comfortably fit a child under 12 or a small adult.

HEATING & HOT WATER SYSTEMS

The Trumatic C Combi 4 boiler comes with recirculated air system for the living area and provides the added benefit of being able to power the heating & hot water from either the gas bottle, electric hookup or a combination of both, meaning that when you are at a campsite you don’t need to use the gas to take a hot shower or wash the dishes.

What’s more, you can connect to the CP-Plus control panel through the intelligent Truma iNet system. The iNet system gives you complete control over the motorhome from a distance via a simple SMS message.

DRIVERS CAB

Camperco Exclusive!

Optional extras included as standard:

… Integrated Satellite Navigation
… Cruise Control
… DAB+ Radio
… Multi-function Steering Wheel
… Reversing Camera
… Driver’s Cab Air Conditioning
… Heated Wing Mirrors with electronic adjustment
… Passenger Airbag
… Twin Leisure Batteries
… Electric Thule Entrance Step
… Scotchguard Stain Resistant Fabrics

The driver’s cab is fitted with adjustable captain seats, complete with arm and head rests and the latest connectivity and facilities for the captain and navigator. Driver conveniences include Bluetooth connectivity for mobile devices or headsets, DAB+ radio, satellite navigation, cruise control, reversing camera and air conditioning are all within arm’s reach.

Pleated thermal blinds come fitted as standard on the front windows and windscreen giving you that all-important blackout effect without having to manage the frustrations of suction cups.

THE CAMPERCO CONCLUSION

Camperco Welcome Pack

Every purchase of a Camperco Campervan or Motorhome comes with the Camperco Welcome Pack to get started and ready to explore the open road. It’s equipped with:
… CEE Electric Extension Hookup Cable
… Fiamma Level Pro Wheel Leveller Chocks
… Reimo Carbest Steel Double Motorhome Step
… Flat Water Hose Cassette Drum
… Camperco Umbrella
… Camperco Keyring

The Weinsberg CaraBus 541MQ is the couple’s campervan perfect for every day driving and campervan adventures – compact, agile and packed with camping amenities.

While it’s easy to get distracted by artificially low prices, modern necessities including safety elements and connectivity such as airbags and Bluetooth connectivity are deemed optional extras with other dealers and manufacturers, but you can rest assured Camperco include modern equipment, connectivity and features as standard.

Trade-ins are welcomed and finance is available on request.

VIEW RANGE >>