Do I need a C1 licence to drive the Compass Avantgarde 196?

If the Compass Avantgarde 196 has a GVW over 3,500kg, you'll need a C1 licence (or a pre-1997 licence). Motorhomes under 3,500kg can be driven on a standard Category B licence. Always check the specific vehicle's weight before purchase.

Is the Compass Avantgarde 196 ULEZ compliant?

ULEZ compliance depends on the engine and emissions standard. Euro 6 diesel and Euro 4 petrol engines are typically compliant. Check the specific listing for ULEZ status, or contact the dealer to confirm the emissions standard.

What base vehicle does the Compass Avantgarde 196 use?

Compass motorhomes are typically built on popular base vehicles like Fiat Ducato, Mercedes Sprinter, or Ford Transit. The specific base vehicle affects parts availability, servicing costs, and driving experience.

How many seatbelts does the Compass Avantgarde 196 have?

The Compass Avantgarde 196 sleeps 6. Note that berths (sleeping capacity) often differs from seatbelts (travel capacity). Always check the specific seatbelt count for legal passenger limits while driving.

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Layout

At a glance

The Compass Avantgarde 196 sleeps 6, making it well suited to families or groups.
At 3,500kg GVW, this can be driven on a standard Category B licence.
Layout: 6-Berth Rear Lounge (also available in Electric Drop-Down Bed, Double Dinette).
Used prices typically range from £42,000 to £68,000.

Quick Verdict

Maximum 6-berth capacity while remaining 3500kg licence friendly

Extremely versatile layout with two distinct seating areas

Excellent value for money for large families compared to premium rivals

Modern interior styling with durable high-quality fabrics

The 7.3-meter length can make tight urban parking challenging

Limited external storage lockers compared to garage-style models

The 3500kg weight limit means payload must be managed carefully when fully loaded

Road Legal Vitals
UK

✓ Standard Licence OK

Gross Weight: 3,500kg. Standard B Licence OK.

Sleeping Berths

Seatbelt data not available. Check dealer listing.

Price & Engine

Good PriceHigh Price

£42,000£68,000

Used Market Estimate

£42,000, £68,000

The average price for a used Compass Avantgarde 196 is £55,000

Cab & Chassis

Driving specs for the Compass Avantgarde 196

Dimensions:

Length 7.34m

Width 2.20m

Height 2.82m

Driving Experience

The Compass Avantgarde 196 offers a comfortable driving experience suitable for both motorway cruising and navigating narrower roads.

About the Compass Avantgarde 196

The Compass Avantgarde 196 is a standout choice for families and groups who refuse to compromise on safety or space. As a flagship 6-berth model within the acclaimed Avantgarde range, it distinguishes itself by offering six dedicated belted travel seats, ensuring every passenger is secure during transit. Built on a Peugeot Boxer chassis with the Whale heating system and 'Strong-Lite' high-strength aluminium sides, the 196 balances durability with a manageable 3500kg MTPLM, meaning it can be driven by anyone with a standard UK Category B driving licence.

Inside, the layout is thoughtfully designed to provide distinct living zones. The front dinette converts into a double bed, complemented by a versatile electric drop-down bed overhead, while the rear lounge offers a peaceful retreat that also transforms into a large sleeping area. The mid-section features a well-equipped kitchen and a functional washroom, making it an ideal companion for long-distance touring across the UK and beyond. Discover your next family adventure by browsing the Compass Avantgarde 196 listings on RoamWorthy today.

Check if you can drive this on your licence with our Motorhome Weight Checker.

The Compass Avantgarde 196 motorhome is a versatile choice for families and groups, offering excellent sleeping capacity and ample belted seats for safe travel. Its robust design provides a generous payload, making it suitable for extended tours and carrying all your essential gear, while remaining accessible to standard B driving licence holders.

Check if you can drive this on your licence with our Motorhome Weight Checker.

Compass Avantgarde 196 Video Reviews

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Expert reviews and walkthroughs of the Compass Avantgarde 196

Interior Layout & Sleeping Configuration

Explore the Compass Avantgarde 196 floorplan and discover how the space works.

Layout Type

6-Berth Rear Lounge

Electric Drop-Down Bed

Double Dinette

Sleeping Capacity

6berths

About the Layout

Sleeps 6 people comfortably with a well-designed layout that balances living space and sleeping areas.

Compare Front Lounge with Drop-Down Bed Layouts

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Weights

Gross Vehicle Weight3,500 kg

Unladen Weight2,944 kg

Payload Capacity556 kg

Dimensions

Overall Length7.34 m

Overall Width2.20 m

Overall Height2.82 m

Accommodation

Sleeping Capacity6 berths

Layout Types

6-Berth Rear Lounge

Electric Drop-Down Bed

Double Dinette

How we assess the Compass Avantgarde 196

Compiled from dealer feeds and manufacturer data. Specifications, prices, and stock sourced from verified UK dealers and brand records
Specs vary by year, trim, and options. Weights, dimensions, berths, and equipment can differ between model years and optional packs
Prices based on recent UK listings where available. Price ranges reflect current and recent dealer listings. Actual prices may vary by condition, year, and specification
Always confirm before buying. Verify exact specifications, condition, and equipment with the seller or manufacturer

How we verify data and methodology →

Practical ownership tips

Licence requirements

At 3,500kg GVW, the Compass Avantgarde 196 can be driven on a standard Category B car licence. Verify the plated weight matches the listing before you commit.

Payload capacity

The Compass Avantgarde 196 has approximately 556kg of user payload for passengers, water, gas, and personal gear. Check the actual plated weight against the unladen weight for the specific vehicle you are viewing.

Before you buy

Request a habitation check for any used unit. Check the base vehicle service history, MOT record, and whether the V5C matches the seller. For conversions, confirm the vehicle is correctly registered with DVLA.