You’d be forgiven for thinking that a motorhome this compact couldn’t possibly offer everything you need for proper touring. After all, at 5.75 metres, it’s shorter than many large estate cars are long. But Auto Sleeper has built their reputation on making small spaces work hard, and the Nuevo EK appears to follow that tradition with some genuinely clever touches that could make all the difference to your touring experience.
Size and Practicality of the Nuevo EK
At 5.75 metres long, the Nuevo EK falls into that goldilocks zone of motorhome sizing; not so small that you’re constantly bumping into things, but compact enough that you won’t be sweating bullets trying to navigate narrow Cotswold lanes or squeeze into that perfect wild camping spot you’ve spotted. You’ll find this length particularly useful when you’re looking for overnight stops, as many pub car parks and smaller campsites that turn away the 7-metre-plus brigade will welcome you with open arms.
The 3.5-tonne weight limit means you can drive it on a standard car licence, which removes one potential barrier to ownership. With a 420kg payload, you’re not exactly overloaded with carrying capacity, but it’s reasonable for a couple touring with sensible amounts of kit. You’d need to be mindful about what you pack – that payload disappears quickly once you add two people, clothes, food, and the inevitable collection of “just in case” items that seem to multiply in motorhome lockers.
Driving the Auto Sleeper Nuevo EK
The 2.2-litre BlueHDi engine producing 140PS should provide adequate performance for a vehicle of this size and weight. You’re not going to be winning any traffic light grands prix, but motorhoming isn’t about speed anyway. The 6-speed manual gearbox gives you proper control over the engine, which you’ll appreciate when tackling hills or trying to maintain momentum on A-roads.
Built on either a Peugeot Boxer or Fiat Ducato chassis, you’d expect the Nuevo EK to handle reasonably well for a motorhome. These commercial vehicle platforms have been refined over years of development, and while they’ll never feel like a car, they’re predictable and reliable. The addition of cruise control would make longer journeys more relaxing, particularly when you’re covering serious miles to reach your destination.
Living in the Nuevo EK
The front lounge arrangement with swivelling captain’s chairs creates a proper social space when you’re pitched up. You’ll find this layout works particularly well for couples who want to sit and chat over morning coffee or evening drinks without feeling cramped. The integrated awning extends your living space outdoors when weather permits, effectively doubling your usable area on sunny days.
That lovely integrated awning on the roof is more than just a nice-to-have; it’s genuinely useful for creating shade and shelter. Whether you’re trying to escape a sudden shower or just want some respite from the sun, having it built-in means you’re more likely to actually use it rather than leaving it at home because it’s too much faff to set up.
Nuevo EK Sleeping Arrangements
The two single beds that convert into a double is a clever solution for a compact motorhome. During the day, you’ve got proper seating for relaxation or dining, and when bedtime comes, the conversion creates a 6’5″ x 4’5″ double bed. That’s a decent size for most couples, though if either of you is particularly tall or broad, you might find it a bit snug.
The rapid bed-making system means you won’t be wrestling with cushions and boards every night – something that becomes increasingly important after a few days on the road when you just want to collapse into bed. You’d likely find this daily conversion becomes second nature quite quickly, though it does mean you can’t leave personal items scattered about the lounge area.
The Nuevo EK’s Kitchen Layout
The end kitchen configuration makes good use of the available space, positioning cooking facilities where they won’t interfere with the living area. You’ll find the 85-litre dual-power fridge provides reasonable storage for a couple, with the freezer compartment handling essentials like ice cream and frozen meals for those nights when you can’t be bothered to cook properly.
The kitchen layout appears designed for actual cooking rather than just reheating, which is refreshing in a compact motorhome. You’d have enough workspace for preparing proper meals, though you’d need to be organised about it; counter space is always at a premium in motorhomes this size.
Bathroom and Shower in the Nuevo EK
Having a separate shower cubicle in a motorhome under 6 metres is genuinely impressive. Many competitors at this size force you to shower over the toilet, which is never pleasant after a few days. The electric-flush cassette toilet and stainless steel sink complete a bathroom that should handle your daily needs without feeling too compromised.
The bathroom size will inevitably be compact, but having dedicated space for washing and toilet facilities means you can maintain proper hygiene standards even on extended tours. You’d probably find the shower perfectly adequate for daily use, though it won’t be the luxurious experience you’d get in a larger motorhome.
Power and Water Systems
The 100W solar panel and 100Ah lithium leisure battery combination suggests Auto Sleeper has thought seriously about off-grid capability. Lithium batteries are significantly more efficient than traditional lead-acid units, giving you more usable power and faster charging. The solar panel should keep the battery topped up during sunny weather, extending your independence from hook-up sites.
With a 70-litre fresh water tank and 50-litre waste tank, you’d have reasonable capacity for a few days of normal use. The Truma Combi 4E heating system (which the transcript charmingly calls a “fireplace”) provides both space heating and hot water, essential for comfortable touring in British weather.
Technology in the Auto Sleeper Nuevo EK
The satellite navigation system that doubles as a reversing camera is a practical touch; you’re getting two useful functions from one screen. The CD radio with steering wheel controls might seem old-fashioned in an age of streaming, but it’s reliable and won’t drain your data allowance when you’re touring in areas with poor mobile coverage.
Electric mirrors and windows are standard car features that make daily driving more pleasant, while the electric step makes entry and exit easier (particularly useful when you’re parked on uneven ground or when carrying shopping back to the motorhome).
Other Motorhomes Worth Considering
If the Nuevo EK appeals but you’re wondering about alternatives, the Auto Sleeper Nuevo Compact British Coachbuilt Review offers a different layout approach within the same size constraints.
For those wanting similar compact dimensions but different interior arrangements, the Auto Sleeper Broadway EK Extended Luxury Review provides another perspective on small-space living.
The Auto Sleeper Nuevo ES Four-Berth Variant Review represents a variation on the Nuevo theme that might suit different touring styles.
Final Thoughts
The Auto Sleeper Nuevo EK appears to be a thoughtfully designed compact motorhome that doesn’t try to be everything to everyone. Instead, it focuses on doing the essentials well within the constraints of a sub-6-metre package. The combination of proper sleeping arrangements, decent kitchen facilities, and a separate shower room in this size package is genuinely impressive.
You’d need to be realistic about the limitations; the 420kg payload requires careful packing, and the compact dimensions mean you won’t have acres of storage space. But for couples who prioritise manoeuvrability and ease of driving over maximum living space, the Nuevo EK could be an excellent choice. The integrated awning, solar panel, and lithium battery suggest it’s been designed for real-world touring rather than just weekend trips to established campsites.
Without knowing the specific year of this model, it’s worth checking exactly which features and specifications apply to any particular example you’re considering, as Auto Sleeper does update their models regularly. But the fundamental concept (compact luxury that actually works) appears sound.
Do you have a motorhome to sell? Call us on 01283 240237 or simply enter your reg number here to sell your motorhome!
