LEISUREDRIVE RENOIR

Leisuredrive is one of the oldest UK van convertors, and its experience shows in the latest generation of this smart camper, says Andrew Jenkinson

- Andrew Jenkinson

Many van converters have come and gone over the years, in t But Leisuredrive is not a new name in this specialist sector: the company was founded back in 1969 (and was then known as Carahome).

The Leisuredrive name came about in the early 1980s, when the firm rebranded and moved to its current premises near Bolton.

Leisuredrive mainly uses VW as a base vehicle. The Renoir, however, has always been based on the Renault Trafic, and this year's model is on the new generation Trafic Sport.

It rides really well, too. Those who are new to owning a campervan can feel confident with the rather car-like driving experience.

The cab is a much more upmarket affair than Renaults of old and feels very well made.

Sat nav and a six-speed manual gearbox come as standard. Automatic transmission is an option. With cab air-con and Bluetooth radio, this campervan is well specified.

The exterior is finished in a very understated grey (like much of the interior), and you have the choice of either a raising-roof or a high-top. It looks very smart, with subtle side decals and alloy wheels.

The mains socket is well-placed on the offside. There is also a 23-litre on-board fresh-water tank, with an exterior outlet for waste water.