Jeep Avantgarde 185
Used Car Review

Overview

Looking for a motorhome that combines Jeep’s rugged reliability with comfortable touring capabilities? The Jeep Avantgarde-185 might be exactly what you’re looking for. This compact motorhome offers a unique blend of Italian craftsmanship and American engineering, perfect for couples or small families wanting to explore the great outdoors without sacrificing comfort. It’s the ideal choice for those who want adventure without the bulk of larger motorhomes.

From first glance, the Avantgarde-185 stands out with its distinctive styling and compact proportions. Built on the reliable Jeep chassis, it offers better ground clearance and off-road capability than traditional motorhomes based on van platforms. The interior maximises every inch of space, with thoughtful design touches that make extended trips comfortable. You get a sense of quality throughout, from the solid construction to the well-planned layout that makes daily life on the road feel effortless.

Driving the Avantgarde-185 is surprisingly car-like for a motorhome. The Jeep underpinnings provide confident handling and a smooth ride, making long journeys less tiring. It’s narrow enough to navigate country lanes and city streets with ease, while still offering proper motorhome facilities inside. While it commands a premium price over basic camper vans, you’re investing in a vehicle that’s built to last and designed for serious touring adventures.

How Does the Jeep Avantgarde-185 Drive?

The Jeep Avantgarde-185 is built on a robust chassis that prioritises reliability over outright performance. The diesel engine delivers adequate power for motorhome touring, with enough torque for hill climbing even when fully loaded. You’ll find it comfortable cruising at motorway speeds, though it’s not designed for rapid acceleration. The engine note is refined and economical, making it ideal for long distance touring across Europe or the UK.

Where the Avantgarde-185 really excels is in its road manners and stability. The suspension is well calibrated to provide a smooth ride for passengers while maintaining good control for the driver. The steering is accurate and confidence inspiring, even on narrow mountain roads. Ground clearance is better than most motorhomes, allowing access to more adventurous camping spots. This combination of comfort and capability makes every journey enjoyable, whether you’re heading to a local campsite or crossing continents.

Jeep Avantgarde-185 Interior, Tech & Comfort Review

Step inside the Avantgarde-185 and you’re greeted by a thoughtfully designed living space that maximises comfort. The interior layout follows a classic European motorhome design, with a rear fixed bed, central kitchen, and front lounge area. Materials are high quality throughout, with solid wood furniture and durable fabrics that can withstand years of touring. The cab seats swivel to become part of the living area, creating a social space perfect for relaxing at the end of the day.

The kitchen is surprisingly well equipped for such a compact unit, with a three burner hob, grill, and generous fridge freezer. Storage is cleverly integrated throughout, with overhead lockers and under-seat compartments keeping everything organised. The heating system works efficiently, making the motorhome comfortable even in cooler weather. While space is naturally limited compared to larger motorhomes, the clever design means four people can live comfortably for extended periods. Everything feels robust and well built, giving confidence for long term adventures.

The Jeep Avantgarde-185 is a compelling choice for those seeking a premium compact motorhome with distinctive character. It successfully combines Italian design flair with Jeep’s mechanical reliability, creating a touring vehicle that stands out from the crowd. The build quality is excellent, with attention to detail that justifies the premium price point. On the road, it offers confidence and comfort that makes long journeys a pleasure rather than an endurance test. The trade-off is a higher purchase price and slightly less internal space than some competitors. It’s not the most economical choice for occasional weekend use, but shines for regular touring and extended adventures. Its compact size is both a strength and limitation, perfect for couples but potentially cramped for larger families. If you value quality, reliability, and the ability to access places other motorhomes cannot reach, the Avantgarde-185 delivers on all counts.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

How Much Does It Cost to Run a Jeep Avantgarde-185?

As a specialised motorhome, the Avantgarde-185 has running costs that reflect its niche status. Fuel economy is reasonable for its size and weight, typically returning around 25-30 mpg on touring journeys. Insurance tends to be more expensive than standard cars but competitive within the motorhome category. The Jeep mechanical components are generally reliable and parts are readily available, keeping maintenance costs manageable for a vehicle of this type.

The main consideration is the initial purchase price, which reflects the high build quality and specialised nature of the vehicle. Depreciation is generally slower than standard cars, especially for well maintained examples with service history. When considering total ownership costs, the ability to combine transport and accommodation saves money on hotels during extended trips. Car finance options are available through specialist motorhome lenders, making ownership more accessible with manageable monthly payments.

Is the Jeep Avantgarde-185 Practical for Everyday Use?

For a compact motorhome, the Avantgarde-185 offers impressive practicality in its clever use of space. The fixed rear bed provides a comfortable permanent sleeping area, while the front dinette converts to accommodate additional guests when needed. Storage is well planned throughout, with wardrobes, overhead lockers, and external compartments providing space for extended touring gear. The 100 litre fresh water tank and waste systems are adequate for several days of independent camping.

Where the Avantgarde-185 shows its advantages is in everyday usability. Its compact dimensions make it suitable for use as a daily driver when not touring, unlike larger motorhomes that require separate transport. It fits in standard parking spaces and can navigate most roads without difficulty. For couples or small families who want the freedom to explore without the constraints of large motorhomes, it strikes an excellent balance. When compared to other used Jeep cars, it offers unique versatility combining transport and accommodation in one package.

The Jeep Avantgarde-185 stands out in the compact motorhome market by offering genuine premium quality and unique capabilities. It packages excellent build standards, thoughtful design, and reliable Jeep mechanicals into a touring vehicle that’s both practical and distinctive. While it may cost more than basic alternatives, the quality difference is apparent in every detail from the solid construction to the refined driving experience.

You choose the Avantgarde-185 because you want a motorhome that doesn’t compromise on quality or capability. Its compact dimensions make it suitable for adventurous touring while remaining manageable for everyday use. It’s perfectly suited for couples or small families who value craftsmanship and want a touring vehicle built to last. If you’re looking for a compact motorhome that offers something different from the mainstream, the Avantgarde-185 should be at the top of your list, especially with cars under £10,000 providing excellent entry level options into motorhome ownership.