Carthago c-tourer I145 RB LE superior: Driving report

However, with the introduction of the 3.5-ton limit for class B car driving licenses, a factor has been added that is the least likely to be compensated for in view of demographic change. If we assume that the desire to acquire the class B driving license C1 (up to 7.5 tonnes) does not increase faster than the motorhome interest of the younger generations, the market for light Motorhomes are becoming ever larger. And experience shows that this is particularly true for those who are not lightweight when it comes to comfort.

In the cozy L-shaped seating area with adjustable table, everyone will find their own box seat.

Photo: Sven Krieger / Car Whiz

This is where our test car comes in. It comes from Carthagethe think tank from Aulendorf (BW), which has its roots in space-optimized conversions for VW buses. From the very beginning, lightweight construction also played a role, because the vans from the 1980s sometimes only had a meager 50 hp. The most powerful Carthago now has over four times as much – and even more has been done in terms of weight optimization.

A key factor in this is the body construction, which relies on stabilizing aluminum support beams and thus completely bonded wall surfaces. These are also made of aluminum on the outside and inside and are insulated with solid, extruded polystyrene (RTM). To increase torsional rigidity even further, the connection between the walls and roof (GRP on the outside) is rounded. When making furniture and also in the intermediate floor, weight is saved wherever possible, for example by milling out the surface.

The large fridge-freezer combination can be opened from both sides.

Photo: Sven Krieger / Car Whiz

Our test vehicle also featured the AL-KO low-frame chassis (like almost all Carthagos), which is very light thanks to the use of high-strength steel, among other things.

A fully-fledged integrated vehicle in the 3.5-ton class with outstanding driving dynamics. It conveys its light-footedness with every meter, and when stationary it is generous in terms of comfort. In particular, the comfortable L-shaped dinette with side seat directly to the right of the body door feels like it comes from a class above.

The upholstery is shaped to fit, and the comfortable upholstery fabric has a color and quilting that is exclusive to the “superior” models. The 3680 euros for the real leather is therefore better spent on the excellent nine-speed automatic transmission (3990 euros). Another great option for people who rarely have visitors is the “no pull-down bed” option (690 euros). In return, there are overhead cupboards all around – and the seating area can be converted into a bed for 590 euros.

In the living comfort package for 690 euros, a sunbathing area can also be built in the rear.

Photo: Sven Krieger / Car Whiz

A practical counter forms the transition to the curved kitchen, in which every corner of storage space and work surface has been used. Opposite is the fridge-freezer combination. In this area, other features that are currently only available in the superior are particularly noticeable: the trendy slatted side paneling, the anthracite-colored accents on the walls and the more linear furniture with handle-free cupboard doors.

The shower cubicle is also cleverly designed. To provide more space, the partition at the foot of the left bed can be pulled out into the hallway. The insert in the design of the walkway is level with the floor and is waterproof. If the door to the toilet room is closed at the front, it creates a great dressing area.

The c-tourer drives lightly and quietly even with the 140 hp base engine.

Photo: Sven Krieger / Car Whiz

If you want, you can get a sliding door in front of the bed for 410 euros. The foot ends can be opened using springs to make it easy to reach clothes hanging there. This is particularly practical if you order the “Living Comfort Package” (690 euros). Then the bed steps can be pulled forward to create a lounge area, but this blocks the normal closet doors.

Equipment that is appropriate for the high basic price. This also includes the plate-sprung, very comfortable beds with a headboard that can be raised. The heated rear storage space underneath is spacious, has two doors and lashing rails. Unfortunately, the anti-slip coating on the floor is so rough that we cut our fingers on it when sweeping. Another criticism is that we only find a charging booster in the neatly installed control cabinet if the “Basic Plus Package” (with many other extras, 5450 euros) is ordered. And that the standard on-board battery is very poor at 80 Ah.

This is how it drives: Much more agile and nimble than it looks. And that even with the 140 hp base diesel. The visibility is very good, only the thick pillars limit it to the side or when entering roundabouts. The chassis is set up for comfort, but the sound insulation is even better. You can hardly hear the diesel, and wind noise is also kept to a minimum.

Lightweight construction does not have to be bought at the expense of sacrifices. The Carthago proves this with its clever design, which saves in the right places, but not in terms of comfort and space. This also includes the optimal usability of the intermediate floor.