If you’re hunting for a motorhome that can handle the chaos of family holidays whilst still offering proper grown-up comfort, the 2009 Bessacarr E789 deserves your attention. This isn’t your typical compact tourer – at 8.67 metres long, it’s a substantial machine that takes the six-berth layout seriously rather than cramming bodies into every available nook.
What sets the E789 apart from many family motorhomes is its commitment to storage. That full-length garage isn’t just marketing speak; you’re looking at 2.1 cubic metres of space with dual-side access, meaning you could realistically pack for a month-long European adventure without playing Tetris with your gear. The 200kg garage capacity suggests Bessacarr understood that families don’t travel light.
Built on the reliable Fiat Ducato 3.0-litre platform with 160bhp, this 2009 example comes with just 20,000 miles on the clock, barely run-in for a diesel of this calibre. You’d be getting what amounts to a nearly-new motorhome at a fraction of the original price.
Size and Space in the Bessacarr E789
Living with an 8.67-metre motorhome means accepting you’re not going to slip into every car park or navigate narrow Cotswold villages with ease. The 12.6-metre turning circle tells you this is a motorhome that prefers main roads and proper campsites to wild camping in remote spots. However, that length translates directly into liveable space inside.
The 2.05-metre interior height means most adults can move around without the constant head-ducking that plagues many motorhomes. When you’re spending weeks on the road, those extra centimetres make a genuine difference to daily comfort. The rear track of 2.35 metres suggests decent stability, though you’d want to be mindful of crosswinds given the size.
Driving the E789 on British Roads
The Fiat Ducato 3.0-litre engine with 160bhp should provide adequate power for a 5000kg motorhome, though you’d need to adjust your driving expectations accordingly. The six-speed manual gearbox gives you proper control over the power delivery, useful when tackling steep gradients in Scotland or Wales with a full load.
Fuel economy of 10 litres per 100km (roughly 28mpg) seems realistic for a motorhome of this size and weight. You’d be looking at around £80-100 to fill the tank, depending on current diesel prices, which should give you a decent touring range. The reversing camera would prove invaluable given the length, particularly when backing into tight pitches.
Living Areas in the Bessacarr E789
The layout centres around a dinette area that converts to a double bed, a sensible arrangement that gives you proper seating during the day and sleeping space at night. The two forward-facing seats suggest you could comfortably seat four adults around the table for meals or evening games.
Having a TV in the lounge area makes sense for family use, particularly during those inevitable rainy afternoons when outdoor activities aren’t an option. The carpeted rear section suggests Bessacarr was thinking about comfort rather than just practicality, a nice touch that makes the space feel more homely.
Sleeping Arrangements in the E789
Six berths in a motorhome this size should mean everyone gets proper sleeping space rather than makeshift arrangements. The overcab double bed is standard for this type of layout and typically suits adults or older children. The dinette conversion provides another double, while the large double bed above the garage would likely be the master bedroom.
This arrangement means three couples could tour together, or a family with teenagers could have some separation. The bed above the garage benefits from being away from the main living area, so early risers wouldn’t disturb late sleepers.
Kitchen Facilities in the Bessacarr
The kitchen specification suggests serious cooking capability with a hob, grill, oven, and microwave. The full-length fridge (150 litres according to research) means you could stock up for extended periods without daily shopping trips. This capacity would suit families who prefer to cook their own meals rather than rely on campsite restaurants.
The Dometic CU600 oven should handle proper family meals, though you’d need to plan cooking times around available gas supplies. Having both oven and microwave gives flexibility, quick reheating or proper roasting depending on your needs.
Bathroom and Shower Facilities
The full bathroom with separate shower compartment elevates this motorhome above many family layouts where the shower is an afterthought. Having a proper shower space means you could realistically use it daily rather than queuing for campsite facilities.
The sink and toilet arrangement should provide adequate space for morning routines, though with six potential users, you’d need to coordinate bathroom time. The separate shower compartment prevents the entire bathroom getting soaked every time someone washes.
Storage Throughout the E789
Beyond the impressive garage space, the E789 offers wardrobes on both sides, essential when six people need to store clothing and personal items. The single wardrobe on the left and another on the right suggests Bessacarr thought about separation of belongings rather than communal storage chaos.
The garage’s dual-side access is particularly clever; you could load heavy items from one side and access frequently-used gear from the other. The 600mm door width should accommodate most camping equipment, though you’d need to measure larger items like bikes or mobility scooters.
Power and Water Systems
The dual 110Ah AGM batteries suggest serious off-grid capability, particularly important in a six-berth motorhome where power demands are higher. The 200W solar readiness means you could add panels later for extended wild camping, though the initial setup relies on hookup or engine charging.
Heated freshwater and waste tanks indicate winter touring capability, useful if you’re planning to extend the season beyond summer holidays. The Truma Combi 2kW heater should keep the large interior comfortable, though fuel consumption would increase in cold weather.
Other Motorhomes Worth Considering
The Bessacarr E795 Review: Family Touring with Advanced Features offers a different take on family touring with potentially more sophisticated systems, while the Bessacarr E765 Review: Spacious Yet Manageable Motorhome might provide similar space in a more manageable package.
For those who find the E789 too large, the Bessacarr E665 Review: Compact Family-Friendly Layout could offer adequate family accommodation with easier handling.
Final Thoughts
The 2009 Bessacarr E789 represents serious family motorhoming without the compromises that plague smaller layouts. You’re getting genuine six-berth capability, impressive storage, and the kind of kitchen and bathroom facilities that make extended touring realistic rather than endurance testing.
The low mileage makes this particularly attractive – you’d essentially be getting a nearly-new motorhome at a significant discount. However, the size means you’d need confidence handling large vehicles and access to appropriate storage when not in use. This isn’t a motorhome for occasional weekends away; it’s designed for families who tour seriously and need the space to do it properly.
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