Auto-Trail · motorhome
Auto-Trail Excel 690
RoamWorthy records the Auto-Trail Excel 690 as a motorhome. Recorded catalogue data: 2 to 3 berths; layout: French bed; length 6.92m; width 2.24m; height 2.88m; MTPLM 3,500kg; payload 540kg; recorded price range £45,000 to £75,000. No live dealer stock is currently linked to this model on RoamWorthy. Specifications can vary by model year, trim and optional equipment. Check the individual listing and manufacturer documentation before purchase.
Auto-Trail Excel 690 key facts
- Berths: 2-3
- Unladen weight: 2960 kg
- Payload: 540 kg
- Length: 6.92 m
- Width: 2.24 m
- Observed price range: £45,000 to £75,000
Key features
- Built on the fuel-efficient Ford Transit chassis
- Rear fixed French bed layout with under-bed storage
- Low-profile aerodynamic exterior design
- Whale heating and hot water system
- Spacious front dinette with swivel captain's chairs
- Modern kitchen with 3-burner hob and oven/grill
- Integrated pleated blinds and flyscreens throughout
Is the Auto-Trail Excel 690 a practical choice for touring?
The Auto-Trail Excel 690 is a practical low-profile motorhome designed for couples or small groups, featuring a fixed French bed and a front dinette. At 6.92 metres long and with a 3500kg MTPLM, it is accessible to drivers with a standard UK Category B licence. It balances a manageable footprint with essential amenities like a three-burner hob and Whale heating.
- Fixed French bed layout with under-bed storage area.
- Built on the Ford Transit chassis with a 3500kg MTPLM.
- Low-profile exterior design with a length of 6.92 metres.
- Front dinette featuring swivel captain's chairs.
- Whale heating and hot water systems installed.
Worth knowing: The French bed configuration requires one occupant to climb over the other to exit. Payload is limited to 540kg which may restrict heavy equipment for long trips. The bathroom area is more compact than those found in island bed models.
Buying an Auto-Trail Excel 690
Who it suits
- Couples seeking a permanent bed without the need for daily setup.
- Drivers who prefer the car-like handling of a Ford-based low-profile vehicle.
- Owners with a standard Category B driving licence.
Reasons to consider it
- The 3500kg MTPLM ensures broad licence accessibility.
- The fixed rear bed provides permanent sleeping convenience.
- The 2.24 metre width and 6.92 metre length make it manageable on British roads.
What to check
- Verify the operation of the Whale heating and hot water system.
- Inspect the condition of the Salinas soft furnishings and high-gloss cabinetry.
- Check the service history of the Ford Transit chassis.
- Ensure all integrated pleated blinds and flyscreens are functional.
Worth knowing: Confirm the specific payload for your intended equipment as 540kg must cover all passengers and gear. The French bed layout may not suit those who require independent access to the washroom at night.
Compare the Auto-Trail Excel 690 with similar models
| Model | Berths | Maximum weight | Length | Typical price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Auto-Trail Excel 690 | 3 | 3500 kg | 6.92 m | £45,000 to £75,000 |
| Auto-Trail EXCEL 675 B | 3 | 3500 kg | 6.75 m | £62,000 to £78,000 |
| Auto-Trail Excel 690T 165BHP Auto | 3 | 3500 kg | 6.98 m | £68,000 to £78,500 |
The Auto-Trail Excel 690 sits within a competitive range of low-profile motorhomes. While it offers a fixed French bed and a 3500kg MTPLM, alternatives like the Excel 675 B provide a shorter length, and the Excel 690T offers a different engine specification. The choice between these models typically depends on whether the buyer prioritises the specific French bed layout or requires the different dimensions and power outputs found in the wider Excel or F Line ranges.
Worth knowing: Specifications and prices can vary by model year, trim and optional equipment.
Ownership and Maintenance Tips
- Utilise the under-bed storage for heavier items to maintain a low centre of gravity.
- Regularly clean the 3-burner hob and oven/grill to maintain the kitchen area.
- Monitor the vehicle weight if adding optional equipment to stay within the 3500kg limit.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Exceeding the 540kg payload by installing too many heavy accessories.
- Forgetting to secure items in the high-gloss cabinetry before transit.
Worth knowing: The 2.88 metre height requires awareness of low bridges and overhanging branches.
Alternatives to the Auto-Trail Excel 690
- Auto-Trail EXCEL 675 B - The Excel 675 B offers a shorter length of 6.75 metres for those seeking a more compact footprint.
- Auto-Trail Excel 690T 165BHP Auto - The Excel 690T 165BHP Auto provides a higher engine output and automatic transmission for different driving preferences.
- Auto-Sleepers Kemerton Xl - A similarly sized model worth comparing on layout, weight and price.
Data and source notes
- This page uses the maintained RoamWorthy record for the Auto-Trail Excel 690.
- 6 model images are recorded for this page and served from RoamWorthy-hosted media.
- 3 recorded source groups are available in the source section below.
Proof notes
- Specifications can differ by production year, trim and optional equipment.
- Dealer listings are used as current marketplace evidence, not as a substitute for the exact vehicle documentation.
Worth knowing: Confirm weights, dimensions and fitted equipment for the exact vehicle before purchase or towing.
Sources and review status for the Auto-Trail Excel 690
This page is supported by 3 recorded source groups.
- Pearman Briggs (dealer_inventory)
- RoamWorthy maintained model catalogue (editorial_database)
- Web Exact Model (model_media)
Last reviewed: 2026-08-05T06:20:20.590811+00:00