Auto-Sleeper Sussex EB 2011 Review: Compact Luxury with End Bathroom Convenience

The Sussex EB sits in that sweet spot for couples who want their own bathroom without the bulk of a larger motorhome. Built on the reliable Peugeot Boxer chassis with a 2.2 HDI engine producing 120bhp, it’s designed for those who appreciate thoughtful engineering over flashy gimmicks. The ‘EB’ designation refers to the end bathroom layout, a configuration that many find more practical than side bathrooms, particularly when you’re trying to navigate middle-of-the-night visits without waking your partner.

What sets this particular model apart is its 37th anniversary Marquis specification, which adds a touch of premium finish to an already well-thought-out design. You’re looking at a motorhome that should handle everything from weekend breaks in the Cotswolds to longer Continental tours, assuming you don’t mind the occasional diesel rattle that comes with the territory.

Size and Practicality of the Sussex EB

At just under six metres, the Sussex EB occupies that goldilocks zone where you can still fit into most standard parking spaces whilst having enough internal room to actually live comfortably. The 3.5-tonne MTPLM means you won’t need to upgrade your licence, though with a payload of 507kg, you’ll need to think carefully about what you pack – that’s roughly equivalent to two adults plus a reasonable amount of gear, but don’t expect to bring the kitchen sink.

The GRP bodywork construction with aluminium lower skirting should prove durable against the inevitable car park scrapes and stone chips that come with motorhome ownership. You’ll appreciate the electric step when you’re loading shopping or climbing aboard after a muddy walk, it’s one of those features that seems unnecessary until you’ve got it, then you wonder how you managed without.

The Fiamma awning extends your living space when the British weather cooperates, though you might find yourself using it more for shelter from unexpected showers than Mediterranean-style outdoor dining. The reversing camera will prove invaluable when you’re backing into that perfect pitch at a busy site, particularly given that rear visibility isn’t exactly a motorhome’s strong point.

Driving the Auto-Sleeper Sussex EB

Behind the wheel, you’ll find the Peugeot Boxer provides a reasonably civilised driving experience, though don’t expect car-like refinement. The 2.2 HDI engine with 120bhp should provide adequate performance for most situations, though you might find yourself planning overtaking manoeuvres well in advance, particularly when loaded and tackling hills.

The six-speed manual gearbox gives you good control over the engine’s power delivery, and cruise control will prove its worth on longer motorway stretches (your right foot will thank you after a few hours of maintaining steady speeds). Electric mirrors and windows add a touch of convenience that you’ll notice every time you need to adjust your view or ventilation.

At 3.5 tonnes, the Sussex EB sits at the upper limit of standard licence capability, which means you’ll feel its weight in crosswinds and when braking. The alloy wheels should help with unsprung weight compared to steel alternatives, though you’ll still need to adjust your driving style to account for the higher centre of gravity and increased stopping distances.

Living Space in the Sussex EB

Step inside and you’ll find Auto-Sleeper has made good use of the available space, though at under six metres overall length, compromises are inevitable. The convertible lounge arrangement provides comfortable seating for relaxation and dining, with the table storing neatly above the cab when not needed, a clever touch that prevents it becoming an obstacle in the limited floor space.

The forward-facing seat with belt and bench seat opposite create a sociable arrangement, though you might find the space feels cosy rather than spacious when four people are seated. The roof light above the lounge helps prevent any sense of claustrophobia, particularly important in a compact layout where natural light can make or break the interior ambience.

Storage has been thoughtfully integrated throughout, with wardrobes and drawers positioned to maximise capacity without intruding on living space. You’ll find the modular cushion sections allow some flexibility in seating arrangements, though the overall footprint means you’re working within fairly tight constraints.

Sussex EB Sleeping Arrangements

When evening comes, the lounge converts to a double bed measuring 6.3 feet, adequate for most couples, though taller individuals might find their feet approaching the end sooner than they’d like. The conversion process should be straightforward enough for nightly use, though you’ll need to clear the seating area of any belongings first.

The bed sits at a comfortable height for getting in and out, important when you consider that middle-of-the-night bathroom visits are inevitable. The positioning means you’ll have reasonable headroom when sitting up, though full standing height will require moving to the central corridor area.

Bedding storage might require some creative thinking given the compact nature of the layout, though the various cupboards and wardrobes should accommodate essentials. You’ll probably find that keeping the bed made up during longer tours makes more sense than daily conversion, particularly if you’re not using the lounge area extensively during the day.

The Sussex EB Kitchen Layout

The kitchen area demonstrates Auto-Sleeper’s experience in maximising functionality within limited space. The three-burner hob provides adequate cooking capacity for most meals, whilst the oven and grill combination opens up more ambitious culinary possibilities, assuming you don’t mind heating up the interior on warmer days.

The microwave adds convenience for quick meals and reheating, positioned where it won’t dominate the limited worktop space. Speaking of worktops, the slide-out extension is a clever feature that effectively doubles your preparation area when needed, then tucks away to maintain the corridor width for movement.

The 96-litre fridge should handle a week’s worth of fresh food for two people, though you’ll need to shop more frequently than you might at home. Storage for dry goods, crockery, and cooking equipment has been integrated throughout the kitchen area, though you’ll quickly learn the art of motorhome-efficient packing to make everything fit.

Auto-Sleeper Sussex EB Bathroom

The end bathroom layout is where the Sussex EB really shows its practical credentials. At 1.35m x 0.8m, the shower area provides reasonable space for washing without the contortions required in some compact motorhomes. The separate shower arrangement means you won’t be performing gymnastics around a toilet every time you want to wash.

The Thetford cassette toilet is the industry standard for good reason – reliable, relatively odour-free when properly maintained, and with emptying points available at most sites. The bathroom’s position at the rear means noise from the toilet extraction fan won’t disturb sleeping areas, a consideration that becomes important during longer stays.

Ventilation appears adequate with appropriate extraction, though you’ll still want to crack a window or roof light when showering to prevent condensation building up. Storage for toiletries and towels has been incorporated, though space remains at a premium, you’ll be selecting travel-sized products rather than bringing full-size bottles from home.

Sussex EB Water and Power Systems

The 69-litre fresh water tank should provide several days of normal use for two people, though you’ll need to be more conservative than you might expect if you’re used to unlimited mains water. The 46-litre waste tank capacity is reasonably matched to the fresh water supply, though grey water always seems to accumulate faster than you’d anticipate.

Habitation air conditioning is a luxury feature that will prove its worth during summer tours, particularly in warmer climates or when parked in full sun. However, it will place significant demands on your electrical system, so you’ll need to plan your power management accordingly, either hookup or substantial battery capacity with solar charging.

The electrical system should handle normal 12V requirements, though running high-draw items like the air conditioning will require either mains hookup or a well-specified charging system. Gas supply handles cooking, heating, and hot water, with bottle storage typically accessible from outside the living area.

Other Motorhomes Worth Considering

If the Sussex EB’s compact dimensions appeal but you’d prefer a different layout, the Auto Sleeper Broadway FB – Premium French Bed Motorhome Review offers similar build quality with a front bedroom configuration that some find more practical for longer stays.

For those wanting more space but similar end bathroom convenience, the Bessacarr E560 Best Value 4 Berth Motorhome Review provides additional length and storage capacity, though you’ll sacrifice some of the Sussex EB’s manoeuvrability in tight spaces.

The Swift Bolero 630EW Award Winning Couples Motorhome represents a different approach to compact motorhome design, with Swift’s take on maximising space efficiency and their own interpretation of end bathroom layouts.

Final Thoughts

The Auto-Sleeper Sussex EB 2011 represents a thoughtful approach to compact motorhome design, prioritising practical features over flashy additions. If you’re a couple looking for something manageable to drive and park whilst still offering proper bathroom privacy and reasonable living space, it deserves serious consideration.

The end bathroom layout will appeal to those who’ve experienced the compromises of wet rooms or side bathroom arrangements, whilst the overall dimensions keep it within the realm of confident driving for most people. The 37th anniversary Marquis specification adds a premium feel without the premium price of a brand-new equivalent.

However, you’ll need to be realistic about the space constraints and payload limitations. This isn’t a motorhome for extended family holidays or those who like to pack everything including the kitchen sink. It’s designed for couples who appreciate quality engineering, practical layouts, and the freedom to explore without requiring a truck licence or causing traffic jams on narrow country lanes.

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