Hobby Vantana K60FT 2018 Review: German Engineering Meets British Touring Needs

When you’re looking at the 2018 Hobby Vantana K60FT, you’re considering a motorhome that represents German manufacturer Hobby’s approach to the compact A-class market. At just under six metres long, this slate grey-finished motorhome would appeal to couples who want the comfort of a fixed bed without the bulk of larger A-class models.

The K60FT sits in that sweet spot where you’d get A-class comfort but retain the ability to navigate typical British roads and campsites without the stress that comes with larger motorhomes. With its 3.5-tonne weight limit, you could drive it on a standard car licence, making it accessible to a broader range of buyers who might be stepping up from panel van conversions or considering their first proper motorhome.

What sets the Vantana K60FT apart from many competitors is its combination of a transverse fixed bed with decent garage storage underneath, a layout that would suit couples who tour regularly and need proper storage for outdoor gear, whether that’s hiking equipment for the Lake District or cycling kit for touring the Cotswolds.

Hobby Vantana K60FT Dimensions and Manoeuvrability

At 5.99 metres long and 2.05 metres wide, the Vantana K60FT would fit comfortably on most British roads and into standard parking spaces, though you’d still need to think twice about narrow Devon lanes or tight Scottish village streets. The 2.67-metre height means you’d clear most car park barriers, but you’d still need to watch for low bridges (something that becomes second nature with any motorhome).

The compact dimensions would make this Hobby particularly appealing if you’re planning to use it as a daily driver between trips. You could realistically park it outside a typical British home, though you’d want to check local parking restrictions first. The turning circle would be manageable for someone stepping up from a large car, though it would still require more planning than you’re used to.

When you’re touring, these dimensions would open up campsites that larger motorhomes simply can’t access. Many of the more characterful sites in places like the Yorkshire Dales or Welsh valleys have tight access roads where every metre counts.

Behind the Wheel of the Hobby Vantana

The 2018 Vantana K60FT comes with Fiat’s proven 2.3 JTD engine paired with a six-speed gearbox, a combination that would provide adequate power for most British touring conditions. While the exact power output isn’t specified for this particular model year, Hobby typically used engines in the 140-150 BHP range, which would be sufficient for motorway cruising and tackling hills with a reasonable load.

You’d find cruise control fitted as standard, which would be particularly welcome on long motorway stretches to Cornwall or Scotland. The cab air conditioning would be essential during summer touring, especially when you’re stuck in traffic on the M5 heading to Devon during peak season.

The electric mirrors and windows add convenience, though these are features you’d expect at this price point. The satellite navigation would be helpful, though many owners would likely prefer to use their smartphone apps for more up-to-date traffic information and campsite locations.

Living Space in the Hobby Vantana K60FT

The interior layout of the Vantana K60FT would centre around the lounge area with four belted seats, allowing you to travel with passengers safely. The swivel driver and passenger seats would create a sociable seating arrangement when you’re pitched up, though the overall living space would be more intimate than you’d find in larger A-class motorhomes.

You’d find the Hobby control panel positioned above the sliding door, which would be convenient for monitoring your water levels and battery status without having to hunt around the motorhome. The LED lighting throughout would provide good illumination while being kind to your battery reserves, important when you’re wild camping or on sites without electric hook-up.

The slate grey finish mentioned would give the interior a contemporary feel, though personal taste would determine whether you prefer this to the warmer wood finishes found in some competitors. The USB ports above the bed would be a practical touch for charging phones and tablets overnight.

Vantana K60FT Sleeping Arrangements

The fixed transverse double bed would be one of the Vantana K60FT’s strongest selling points for couples. At approximately 1.94 x 1.64 metres, it would provide proper double bed comfort without the nightly ritual of converting a dinette that you’d find in many smaller motorhomes.

The transverse layout means you’d both have easy access to get up during the night without disturbing your partner, a significant advantage over island beds where one person gets trapped against the wall. The bed would be positioned at the rear of the motorhome, giving you privacy from the living area.

Underneath the bed, you’d find garage storage that would be accessible from outside the motorhome. This would be perfect for storing muddy walking boots, wet weather gear, or bulky items like awning equipment that you wouldn’t want inside the living space.

Kitchen Space in the Hobby Vantana

The kitchen in the Vantana K60FT would feature a two-burner hob, which would be adequate for most couples’ cooking needs, though you might find yourself wishing for a third burner when preparing more elaborate meals. The three-drawer fridge would provide reasonable storage for fresh food, though you’d need to shop more frequently than you would at home.

The kitchen layout would likely be galley-style, making efficient use of the available space. You’d find adequate worktop space for food preparation, though you’d need to be organised and clear up as you go, a common requirement in any motorhome kitchen.

Storage would be provided in overhead lockers and drawers, though you’d need to be selective about what kitchen equipment you bring. Heavy items would need to be stored low down to maintain the motorhome’s stability, and everything would need to be secured before travelling.

Bathroom and Shower Room

The Vantana K60FT would feature a cassette toilet, which would be the standard solution for a motorhome of this size. While not as convenient as a fixed toilet, the cassette system would be more practical for extended touring, allowing you to empty waste at designated points rather than requiring full waste tank facilities.

The shower room would be compact but functional, with enough space for a quick wash. You’d need to be realistic about water usage, particularly when wild camping, as the 95-litre fresh water tank would need to last several days if you’re not on a serviced pitch.

Storage in the bathroom would be limited to essentials, so you’d need to be selective about toiletries and keep the rest in bedroom storage. The compact nature means you’d be opening and closing the door frequently, so the build quality of hinges and catches would be important for long-term reliability.

Hobby Vantana K60FT Systems and Self-Sufficiency

The 95-litre fresh water tank would provide reasonable capacity for a couple, lasting perhaps 2-3 days with careful usage when wild camping. The 90-litre waste tank would be well-matched to the fresh water capacity, though you’d typically need to empty grey water more frequently than you’d refill fresh water.

The solar panel fitted as standard would help maintain your battery charge during sunny weather, extending your ability to camp without electric hook-up. Combined with the 92Ah habitation battery, you’d have reasonable power reserves for LED lighting, water pump, and charging devices, though you’d need to be conservative with power-hungry appliances.

The Truma heating system would keep you warm during shoulder season touring, though you’d need to monitor your gas consumption during extended cold spells. The system would typically heat both air and water, providing comfort even when the British weather turns uncooperative.

Additional Equipment and Practicality

The full awning would significantly extend your living space when you’re pitched for several days, creating an outdoor room that would be particularly welcome during good weather. However, you’d need to factor in the time and effort required to erect and pack away a full awning, which might not be worthwhile for overnight stops.

The reversing camera would be invaluable when manoeuvring in tight spaces or backing onto pitches, giving you confidence when you can’t see clearly behind the motorhome. The satellite dish would provide entertainment options, though you’d need to check compatibility with current broadcasting standards.

The tow bar would allow you to bring a small car for local exploration once you’re pitched, or tow a trailer for additional storage. However, you’d need to consider the impact on your payload and driving dynamics, particularly on hills or in windy conditions.

Other Motorhomes Worth Considering

If you’re drawn to the Hobby Vantana K60FT’s compact A-class layout, you might also consider the Pilote Cityvan CV57: Dual Beds & Garage Review, which offers French design flair in a similar size package with potentially different interior layouts.

The Ford Transit-Based Tribute F62 Review would provide a British-built alternative with potentially different equipment levels and warranty support, though you’d be looking at a slightly different approach to space utilisation.

For those considering a different layout approach, the Trigano Tribute 550: Reliable Fiat Panel Van Motorhome Review might offer alternative sleeping arrangements or storage solutions that could better suit your specific touring style.

Final Thoughts

The 2018 Hobby Vantana K60FT would suit couples who want the comfort and convenience of a fixed bed motorhome without stepping up to the larger sizes that can make British touring more challenging. The German build quality should provide reliability, while the comprehensive equipment list means you’d be ready for extended touring from day one.

You’d need to be realistic about the space limitations; this isn’t a motorhome for entertaining friends or accommodating unexpected guests. However, for two people who enjoy regular touring and appreciate having a proper bed and reasonable storage, the Vantana K60FT would tick most boxes.

The 3.5-tonne weight limit keeps it accessible to standard licence holders, while the compact dimensions would open up touring opportunities that larger motorhomes simply can’t access. If you’re stepping up from a panel van conversion or considering your first proper motorhome, the Vantana K60FT would represent a sensible choice that balances comfort with practicality.

 

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A Note from the Author — Shane Malpass

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