NEW CAMPERVAN CONVERSIONS

You could be forgiven for thinking the motorhome market has gone price mad, but there are still bargains in new conversions, as Peter Rosenthal reports

One recurring theme of late in the leisure vehicle industry has been price creep, with many models now seeming to have very high prices. At the recent Motorhome & Caravan show at the NEC, some of the 'vans sported eye-watering price tags.

For example, I spotted a VW Transporter model that was retailing for more than £100,000. Yes, it was beautifully built and well-equipped.

But you'd expect it to be at that price.

For the same money, you could buy a brand-new campervan and still have change left for a decent Porsche 911...

I know what I'd rather do! However, don't be deterred, there are still bargains to be had and there are lots of great-value conversions out there - including brand-new models offering incredible specification for the cash.

Here, we focus on some of the new conversions that offer maximum bang for your buck - in my opinion, all of these are well worth putting on your shortlist.

WELLHOUSE NISSAN NV350 LWB

FROM £32.000

Okay, so this isn't actually a new vehicle, but it is a 2012-onwards Japanese import with a clever new conversion slotted inside.

The key thing to note is the sheer amount of interior space and features on offer for a tiny footprint. If you're looking for a Tardis, this is it.

At just 5.08m long, the LWB model isn't really long at all - it's actually more than 30cm shorter than a Ford Transit Custom LWB, yet manages to pack in more interior space.

Two versions are available: the 4.7m-long SWB with a pop-top roof and a traditional side kitchen layout, and this LWB high-top, which offers far more interior space and the benefit of a private toilet area to the rear, with a sliding privacy door.

We reckon it's the one to opt for, because the rear kitchen and toilet area works well and you get a huge lounge that forms a gigantic double bed, or two singles.