If you’re planning extended tours and value having a proper bedroom rather than converting dining areas each night, the Auto-Trail Delaware delivers with its permanent island bed layout. The 7.9-metre length provides generous living space but remains manageable for experienced drivers. With its upgraded 150bhp engine, this motorhome is particularly well-suited to mature couples who want comfort without compromise and don’t need to accommodate more than two travellers.
How Big Is The Auto-Trail Delaware?
You’ll find this motorhome measures 7.9 metres in length, making it substantial without being unwieldy. Built on the robust Fiat Ducato 4250 Maxi chassis, it provides stability and carrying capacity that you’ll appreciate on longer journeys. The 600kg payload gives you reasonable flexibility for packing essentials and luxuries alike.
For parking and manoeuvring, you’ll benefit from the three reversing cameras, a thoughtful feature that makes handling this larger motorhome significantly less stressful. The inclusion of a tow bar extends your options, allowing you to bring along a small car for local exploration once you’ve established your base.
Driving This 150bhp Automatic
When you take the wheel, you’ll notice the responsive 2.3 JTD Fiat Ducato engine, upgraded to 150bhp, providing confident power for hill climbs and overtaking. The automatic gearbox (a desirable feature in this age range) delivers smooth progress without the fatigue of constant gear changes on long journeys.
Your driving experience is enhanced with practical features including electric mirrors, electric windows, cruise control, and integrated satellite navigation. The cab air conditioning ensures your comfort regardless of outside temperatures, while driver and passenger airbags provide essential safety. The elevated driving position gives you excellent visibility, helping you navigate with confidence.
Living Space with Front Lounge
Your day-to-day living area provides a sociable front lounge with two comfortable bench seats that can be configured for relaxing or dining. The upholstery appears well-maintained, and you’ll appreciate the abundant storage options both above and below the seating area.
The central control panel is conveniently positioned above the habitation door, giving you easy access to essential systems. For entertainment, a drop-down television is installed in the lounge area, perfect for evening relaxation after a day of exploring.
Island Bed Plus Convertible Lounge
At night, you’ll be sleeping on a spacious island bed at the rear of the motorhome, a significant upgrade from the French bed layouts found in many competitors. The island configuration means you can access the bed from both sides, eliminating the need to climb over your partner during night-time bathroom visits.
Additional sleeping accommodation is available by converting the front lounge into a double bed, making this a genuine 4-berth motorhome when needed for occasional guests or family members. The bedroom area includes additional storage above and to the sides of the bed, plus a TV bracket and aerial for bedtime viewing. The island bed layout creates a genuine master bedroom feel that you’ll appreciate during extended tours.
Mid-Kitchen Cooking Facilities
Preparing meals gives you access to a well-equipped kitchen positioned in the middle of the vehicle. You’ll find a sink, oven, grill, and 4-burner hob providing comprehensive cooking options. The inclusion of a microwave expands your meal preparation possibilities, while the large fridge opposite ensures ample food storage for extended trips.
Storage in the kitchen area is thoughtfully designed, with cabinets positioned to maximise space without compromising workflow. The central location means the chef remains part of the social space while preparing meals.
Separate Shower Bathroom Layout
Your onboard bathroom offers the luxury of a separate shower compartment, a feature that significantly enhances usability compared to combined wet rooms. The toilet and sink are positioned opposite, with a mirror and additional storage completing the facilities.
This split bathroom arrangement provides a more home-like experience and prevents the entire bathroom becoming wet after showering. The positioning just before the bedroom creates a natural division between living and sleeping areas.
Delaware Water and Power Systems
For off-grid adventures, you’ll have 136 litres of fresh water storage and 68 litres of waste water capacity – sufficient for several days of careful use between service point visits. The roof-mounted air conditioning unit provides welcome cooling during summer travels, complementing the standard heating system.
The control panel above the habitation door gives you easy management of electrical systems, water pumps, and lighting. Decent battery capacity and solar options would be worthwhile upgrades to consider if extended off-grid capability is important to you.
Storage Throughout This Auto-Trail
Your gear can be stored in multiple locations throughout this well-designed motorhome. The garage at the rear provides valuable space for bulkier items like outdoor furniture and sports equipment. The bike rack allows you to bring cycles without sacrificing internal storage space.
Inside, overhead lockers in the lounge, kitchen and bedroom areas offer abundant storage for clothing and supplies. The island bed likely features underneath storage as well, maximising the use of available space.
Who Should Buy The Delaware?
If you’re planning extended tours as a couple, this Delaware offers an excellent balance of driving comfort and living space. The island bed configuration is particularly well-suited to longer trips where bedroom comfort becomes increasingly important.
For occasional family visits, the ability to sleep four people provides flexibility, though the motorhome is best suited to two travellers for extended periods. The substantial fresh water capacity and comprehensive kitchen make this suitable for off-grid camping, while the automatic transmission reduces driver fatigue on longer journeys.
Auto-Trail Delaware vs Similar Models
- Auto-Trail Apache: If you find the Delaware too large, the Apache 700 SE: Enhanced Family Features and Apache 700: Spacious Family Tourer Review offer similar quality in a more compact package, specifically designed to meet family needs
- Auto-Trail Frontier Scout: For those wanting more space, the Scout provides an even more generous layout with similar features
- Bessacarr E700 Series: Worth comparing if you prefer a different bed configuration with similar build quality
Is This 2013 Delaware Worth The Investment?
The 2013 Auto-Trail Delaware represents a thoughtful balance of practicality and comfort. You’ll particularly appreciate the island bed layout if bedroom comfort is a priority, while the automatic transmission makes driving less tiring on longer journeys. The 150bhp engine upgrade provides reassuring power reserves, especially when fully loaded or tackling hilly terrain. At 7.9 metres, it requires confident handling but rewards with generous living space that doesn’t feel compromised.
For couples seeking a motorhome for extended touring with occasional guests, this Delaware offers a compelling package. The separate shower, comprehensive kitchen, and thoughtful storage solutions create a genuine home-from-home experience that you’ll appreciate more with each journey.
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