Hymer B-Class 544
SETTING THE STANDARD FOR 2011
October 2010 – Words and photos by John Page
Without preamble this is simply the most fundamental change to a Motorhome seen from any manufacturer in the past decade. And yet a first look didn’t suggest much of a clue apart from the steeper angle of the windscreen. Some of the changes were influenced by a detailed survey from fifty Hymer owners and others by a determination to improve the build quality and the raw materials used.
However perhaps most important of all was a determination to create a truly functional machine that would always be a pleasure to own. Prototypes covered 50,000 test kilometres over 300 test days with temperatures ranging down to minus 20oC!Although my time with the 554 was limited it was sufficient to discover some of the following features: first off was the smooth operation of the entrance step, the robust quality of the main door and the satisfactory clunk on closing it. Close by there is space and hooks for outdoor gear and a sizeable wardrobe next to it.
Stop there to look forward at the tasteful decor of an open plan scheme with a long oval table as its focal point. A sociable arrangement, it will seat six with space to spare. Seating fabrics throughout are of a classical plain fawn material with a suede feel and textured panels, plus the obligatory German net drapes for the windows.New cab seats have simple to operate turning mechanisms and adjustments for the backrests on both sides of the seats without fumbling.
Cruise control, air con and sat nav are standard and the visibility through 180 degrees is total. Within easy reach on the move the sun visors will adjust to any combination of height and angle that driver and passenger will need.
Quality pleated privacy blinds for the windscreen and side windows extend smoothly.A planked effect floor has no less than eight precisely made flaps for easy access to plumbing and various stowage places within the double floor. Water tanks and plumbing here is fully protected from the weather.
Apart from generous workspace the emphasis in the galley has been to design cupboards and lockers for a specific purpose whether it is food, utensils, cutlery, crocks, bottles or the removable waste bin. It’s all of a piece with lights and power points also placed sensibly and safely.
In the washroom, all motor homes washrooms should have such a proper slatted wooden duckboard on which to shower safely, plus such a generous locker array. Good lighting and the separate shower cubicle confirm its design practicality.Above the cab the drop down bed has also had the treatment, in appearance with new lighting, and a panel to which one can attach reading matter etc without scrabbling around in the morning.
An elegant wide tread ladder in wood provides the comfortable access. On the underside are spotlights for cab lighting, a wooden design feature and the sun visor mountings. This brief review cannot give you the feel of the total machine because mere words don’t always do justice to the reality but the snaps may help and if you really want to get close, to feel and touch the machine, try contacting Brownhills at Newark.
Bare details:
Length 6.50mFiat Long wheelbase chassis cab with turbo diesel power and six-speed transmission.
Price: unknown as we go to press…
