The Knaus Sun Ti 650MF is undoubtedly a beautiful 'van, Mick H, and well worth hanging on to. But it's just not comparable - the two 'vans are in totally different classes.
The whole point about the Exsis is that it packs all that in to just 5.5m long! The Knaus is 6.86m, 25% longer! The Exsis width is only 2.06m whereas the Knaus is 2.3m. These Exsis dimensions make a really BIG difference when touring and in everyday driving.
Up until the arrival of the Exsis, only a campervan-type of vehicle (typically VW) could give the easy parking, manoeuverabilty and 'go anywhere' nature needed when touring, particularly Devon and Cornwall's little back lanes. But the Exsis is a similar footprint but with 'A'-Class features, a truly remarkable achievement.
Sure, there are bigger and better 'vans, but (and I'm sticking my neck out here!) so far there hasn't been anything to beat it, not that I know of anyway. The Wingamm (and one or two others) comes close, with one model that is also 5.4m but that one is also much wider. Quite why Hymer dropped the concept none of us have a clue. As phillybarbour notes above, demand for such a vehicle is probably higher now than it ever was.
Mine is LHD ('automatic' was never offered by Fiat on a RHD base) and it is no problem whatsoever - don't be put off a 'van you really like by that. LHD also has its advantages when driving in this country - for example it's so much easier to get in tight to a kerb, wall or hedge if you need to. After a short while you get used to it, as when driving any vehicle and you just don't notice it. But this also opens up the possibility of buying one on the Continent where they are much more prevalent, and up to £2,000 cheaper over there than the equivalent ones here in the UK!
So if you really would like an Exsis, have a look at the German, Belgian and Dutch motorhome sales sites - there are some good Exsis' there. To start you off, do a search of this site...
Motorhome search on mobile.de – find your vehicle quick and easy
and type in "Integrated" (A-Class), "Hymer", "Exsis", "2003" and "2007"
There are often three or four there.
Finally, keep your eye on the last page of our "For Sale" Posts on the Exsis Owners Forum here
Topic: Exsis "For Sale" - exsis owners forum
Peace and best wishes to all this Christmas.
"Exsis Dulci Jubilo"
Barry