on Thursday June 27, 2024
What’s the Best Van for a Camper Conversion?
4 minutes well spent
Various ‘base’ vehicles from a variety of popular vehicle manufacturers are used during camper conversion construction. One of the most enduring is the Peugeot Boxer. This is a robust and versatile van that’s carved out quite a niche for itself. In this edition of our blog we’ll focus in on the Boxer, and explain why it was the perfect choice for our VR200 and VR400 vans.
Engineering and Build
The Peugeot Boxer’s engineering stands out due to its rigorous testing, over two million miles in extreme conditions (including temperature variations from -20°C to +40°C and water and corrosion resistance testing), to ensure the components and materials do not easily degrade. This level of testing ensures the Boxer is capable of handling its tasks in a variety of different – and difficult – environments. Boxer engines are known for their efficiency and performance, making them a reliable choice for long-term use.
The build quality of the Peugeot Boxer includes a rigid body, strong suspension mountings, and robust construction materials – all of which contribute to the van’s durability. It truly is one of the best vans for a camper conversion.
Driving
Being behind the wheel of the Peugeot Boxer is a comfortable experience, thanks to a range of modern features including enhanced power steering, keyless entry and a digital instrument display. The Electronic Stability Program (ESP) includes Load Adaptive Control, which adjusts the intervention point of the stability control system based on the load in the vehicle. Hill Start Assist is also included, which prevents the van from rolling back on slopes. The Boxer’s driving experience is further enhanced by an efficient and well-tuned suspension system and brakes which provide responsive handling. This offers the driver a smooth ride whatever the terrain, making the Boxer suitable for both rural and urban environments.
Manoeuvrability
Despite its size, the Peugeot Boxer is designed to ensure easy manoeuvrability. Features including a rear parking camera, parking sensors and a stability control system are all integrated to make sure that drivers can navigate tighter spaces with ease – perfect for those narrow-road country villages on your holiday trips, or when you need to reverse into a tight spot in a city environment.
The vehicle’s turning radius is compact, and the high driving position plus large windows provide excellent visibility for drivers. Collectively, all of these features mean that the Boxer is an excellent choice for travellers who require a van that can be as comfortable negotiating tight and crowded city streets as it is navigating narrow country lanes.
Interior Comfort
One of the most impressive things about the Peugeot Boxer is the generous amount of interior space available for campervan manufacturers and, ultimately, travellers.
The Boxer’s cab is equipped with modern tech, including an infotainment system and Bluetooth connectivity, and there are ample storage compartments for all of the bits and pieces you need around you when you’re driving. The seats are designed for long-term comfort, so the Boxer is perfectly suitable for extended journeys as well as shorter trips and day-to-day running. The dashboard is laid out intuitively, with all of the necessary controls easily accessible for the driver.
Ventura Campervans Based on the Peugeot Boxer
There are two hugely impressive campervans offered by Ventura which are based on the Peugeot Boxer: the VR200 and the VR400. Both models showcase the Boxer’s robust build and spacious interior and provide excellent campervan experiences. The VR200 and VR400 really show off the Boxer’s versatility, and its quality as a base vehicle.
a) Ventura VR200
The VR200 is designed to be versatile enough for either solo travellers or couples.
A well-considered layout maximises the interior space in a really efficient way, still managing to include: A fully equipped kitchen, including a twin hob gas ring and fridge, a foldaway table for dining; a comfortable sleeping area (a double rock ‘n’ roll bed plus, an optional elevating roof in the VR200 Plus and Touring models, offering an additional 2-berth roof bed, accessible by ladder); and ample storage space including overhead lockers. The compact size of the VR200 ensures easy manoeuvrability when you’re out on the road, making it a great choice of vehicle for urban driving or off-the-beaten-path adventures.
b) Ventura VR400
The VR400 is a more spacious alternative to the VR200, more suitable for families or those couples or solo travellers who require extra space. The VR400 also includes
high-end appliances and ample counter space in the kitchen area, making it easy to prepare and cook meals for a family. The living area is spacious with the rear lounge area’s triple seat bench folding flat into a comfortable bed, and an optional pop-top offering plenty of room to sleep two more. Swivel cab seats turn to face the interior, ensuring a really social space can be enjoyed by all.
The Peugeot Boxer is a top choice in the new campervan market for, reasons in a nutshell, robust build, smooth driving experience, ease of manoeuvrability and ample versatile interior space. Whether it is used for business, leisure, domestic running or adventure, the Peugeot Boxer can handle the demands of modern life.
