If you’re looking for a motorhome that doesn’t mess about when it comes to space, the Autocruise Starblazer XL might just catch your eye. At nearly seven metres long, this isn’t a van you’d choose for nipping around narrow Cotswold villages, but for those who prioritise living space over nimble handling, it could be exactly what you’re after.
The Starblazer XL sits in that interesting category of motorhomes where you’re getting a proper four-berth layout without stepping up to an A-class. Built on the trusty Peugeot Boxer chassis with a 2.8 turbo diesel engine, it’s designed for people who want to live properly on the road rather than just survive. Whether you’re planning extended European tours or fancy the idea of longer UK breaks, this Autocruise offers the kind of space that makes a difference when you’re spending weeks rather than weekends away.
Size and Practicality of the Starblazer XL
At 6.98 metres, the Starblazer XL is definitely in the “think twice about that car park” category. You’ll be looking at height barriers, width restrictions, and generally planning your routes with a bit more care than you would in a smaller van. The 3,500kg MTPLM means you can drive it on a standard car licence, but you’ll want to be confident about manoeuvring something this substantial.
The length does bring benefits though; you’re getting proper living space rather than the cramped compromises you’d find in shorter motorhomes. If you’re the sort who likes to spread out when you’re away, or you’re planning trips where you might be stuck inside during bad weather, those extra metres translate into genuine comfort rather than just marketing speak.
Behind the Wheel of the Autocruise
The Peugeot Boxer 2.8 turbo diesel underneath should provide reasonable performance, with power outputs ranging from 127 to 160 BHP depending on the specific year. The five-speed manual gearbox is straightforward enough, though you might find yourself wishing for a sixth gear on long motorway stretches. Fuel economy of around 27 MPG is respectable for something this size, though you’ll definitely notice the difference at the pumps compared to your car.
The electric mirrors and windows are a nice touch – when you’re dealing with something this wide, being able to adjust your mirrors at the touch of a button rather than leaning out of the window is genuinely useful. The reversing camera with screen is almost essential on a motorhome this size, particularly when you’re trying to back into a pitch with other vans parked nearby.
Living Space in the Starblazer XL
Inside, the Starblazer XL makes good use of its length with a layout that actually feels spacious rather than just claiming to be. The two bench seats in the lounge area convert to create a double bed measuring 2.1×1.8 metres, that’s proper double bed territory, not the “double for very friendly couples” you sometimes find in smaller vans.
The light upholstery helps create an airy feel, and multiple roof lights mean you shouldn’t feel too enclosed even on overcast days. Storage above the lounge gives you somewhere to put the inevitable accumulation of stuff that comes with longer trips. The opening windows provide proper ventilation, which becomes important when you’re living in a relatively small space for extended periods.
Starblazer XL Sleeping Arrangements
You’re getting genuine four-berth accommodation here, with the transverse bed over the rear garage measuring 1.9×1.4 metres. That’s a proper double for most couples, positioned where road noise should be minimal. The slatted bed base should provide decent support, and having the bed permanently made up means no evening faff with cushions and conversion.
The lounge converts to provide the other sleeping space, and at 2.1×1.8 metres, it’s actually larger than the fixed bed. If you’re travelling as a family, the kids might well prefer the novelty of sleeping in the lounge area. The retractable ladder stored in a cupboard provides access to the over-garage bed without taking up permanent space.
The Starblazer XL Kitchen Layout
The kitchen appears well-equipped for serious cooking, with a four-burner hob plus electric hotplate giving you plenty of options. The oven and grill mean you can tackle proper meals rather than just heating up ready meals. Hot and cold water to the sink is standard, and the 105-litre Dometic fridge should handle a week’s shopping without too much Tetris-style packing.
Storage around the kitchen area should be adequate for longer trips, though you’ll still need to think carefully about what you bring. The swing-out sink panel in some versions adds extra workspace, which becomes valuable when you’re preparing meals for four people in a relatively compact area.
Shower and Toilet in the Starblazer XL
The bathroom gets a proper shower cubicle measuring 90×60cm; not huge, but workable for most people. The swing-out sink panel (where fitted) is a clever touch that gives you more elbow room when you need it. Having a separate shower area rather than a wet room setup means the toilet doesn’t get soaked every time someone has a wash.
The bathroom layout seems practical rather than luxurious, but that’s probably the right approach in a motorhome. You’ve got everything you need – toilet, sink, mirror, and shower, without wasting space on unnecessary frills.
Starblazer XL Systems and Storage
The 110Ah leisure battery should provide reasonable power for lighting and water pumps, though you might want to consider upgrading if you’re planning extended off-grid stays. The roof air conditioning is a significant bonus for summer touring, particularly in warmer climates where opening windows might not be enough.
The rear garage with dual access doors is one of the Starblazer XL’s strong points. With 1.01 metres on the nearside and 0.68 metres on the offside, you’ve got proper storage for outdoor gear, tools, or anything else you don’t want cluttering up the living space. The bike rack and tow bar extend your options for bringing additional equipment or transport.
Other Motorhomes Worth Considering
If the Starblazer XL’s size feels daunting, the Autocruise Stargazer Review: Compact Layout with Ample Storage offers a more compact alternative from the same manufacturer with similar build quality but in a more manageable package.
The Bessacarr E560 Review: Well-Built 4-Berth Coachbuilt provides comparable space and features but with different layout options that might suit your specific needs better.
For those wanting similar accommodation but different styling, the Swift Bolero 630EW Review: Airy Comfort in 7 m Format offers an alternative approach to the four-berth, rear garage layout.
Final Thoughts
The Autocruise Starblazer XL is clearly aimed at people who prioritise space and comfort over easy manoeuvrability. If you’re planning extended trips, touring with family, or simply want room to spread out, it offers genuine four-berth accommodation without the step up to an A-class motorhome.
The trade-offs are obvious – you’re dealing with nearly seven metres of motorhome, which limits where you can go and how easily you can get there. But if you can live with the size constraints, you’re getting proper living space, decent storage, and equipment that should handle serious touring rather than just weekend breaks.
Whether it’s right for you depends largely on how you plan to use it. For extended European tours or longer UK breaks where comfort matters more than agility, the Starblazer XL makes a strong case for itself.
Do you have a motorhome to sell? Call us on 01283 240237 or simply enter your reg number here to sell your motorhome!
