Autocruise motorhomes were best known for their van conversions and compact coachbuilt models, offering clever, space-efficient layouts that made the most of every inch. Built on Peugeot and Fiat base vehicles, Autocruise models ranged from nimble panel van conversions to full low-profile coachbuilts.

The brand produced an extensive range of models over its lifetime, including the popular Star series (Starspirit, Starblazer, Starquest, Stargazer, Starfire, Startrail and others), the Rhythm, Forte, Tempo, Pulse, Alto and the Augusta. The van conversions were particularly well-regarded for their practical layouts and ability to double as daily transport.

After acquisition by Swift Group in 2007, Autocruise models benefited from Swift's purchasing power and production infrastructure, though some enthusiasts feel the earliest pre-Swift models had a distinct character that was diluted under corporate ownership.

Today, Autocruise motorhomes represent excellent value on the used market. The van conversions in particular remain popular with couples seeking a compact, manoeuvrable motorhome that can handle both everyday driving and extended touring. Parts availability is good through the Swift Group network.

Autocruise was established in 1998 and quickly developed a strong reputation for producing well-designed van conversions and compact coachbuilt motorhomes. The company carved out a niche in the UK market for cleverly packaged smaller motorhomes that maximised interior space.

In 2007, Autocruise was acquired by the Swift Group, the UK's largest motorhome and caravan manufacturer. Under Swift ownership, Autocruise became the group's dedicated van conversion brand and production moved to Swift's Cottingham factory in East Yorkshire.

During 2008–2009, the economic recession prompted Swift to streamline its brand portfolio. While some acquired brands were discontinued, Autocruise survived the consolidation and continued producing van conversions alongside Swift's mainstream coachbuilt models.

However, the Autocruise brand was eventually discontinued by Swift Group as the company focused its van conversion efforts under the main Swift badge. Despite no longer being in production, Autocruise models — particularly the Star range of van conversions — remain popular and sought-after on the used market.

Clever van conversion layouts — Autocruise's Star range of panel van conversions were some of the best-designed in the UK market. Models like the Starspirit and Starblazer offered surprisingly liveable accommodation within a standard panel van footprint, with well-thought-out kitchens, washrooms and sleeping arrangements.

Compact and manoeuvrable — many Autocruise models were designed to be used as both a motorhome and everyday transport. Their compact dimensions made them easy to park, drive through narrow lanes and use for shopping trips — something larger coachbuilts cannot match.

Year-round usability — owners consistently praise the heating and insulation on Autocruise models, with many reporting comfortable use in sub-zero Scottish winters. The compact interior heats up quickly and retains warmth effectively.

Strong owner loyalty — despite the brand's discontinuation, Autocruise owners tend to be fiercely loyal. Many report keeping their vehicles for years and covering high mileages. One owner famously drove a 2005 Starspirit over 110,000 miles as their sole vehicle over a decade.

If you want a compact motorhome for couples — Autocruise van conversions are ideal for two people who want the freedom of motorhoming without the bulk of a large coachbuilt. You can drive them anywhere a normal van can go, park in standard spaces, and still have everything you need.

If you want something that can double as daily transport — many Autocruise van conversions were designed to function as everyday vehicles. If you don't want a dedicated motorhome sitting on the drive between trips, an Autocruise could serve both purposes.

If budget is a priority — as a discontinued brand, Autocruise models offer exceptional value on the used market. You get genuine Swift Group engineering and parts support at prices well below equivalent current-model van conversions.

If you tour in all seasons — the compact interiors heat up fast and the insulation is well-regarded. Owners consistently report comfortable winter touring in their Autocruise, making them genuine four-season vehicles.

Damp is a well-documented issue — this is the single biggest concern with used Autocruise motorhomes. Water ingress through locker seals, side skirt screws and around windows has been widely reported across multiple models. A professional damp check is absolutely essential before purchasing any Autocruise.

Quality control was inconsistent — owners have reported that build quality varied, particularly on models produced during the transition to Swift Group ownership. Some vehicles arrived with multiple faults from the factory, suggesting quality control was sometimes lacking.

Brand is discontinued — Autocruise is no longer in production, which can affect buyer confidence and resale values. However, parts remain available through the Swift Group network and aftermarket suppliers.

Post-Swift models lost some character — enthusiasts of the original Autocruise models feel that vehicles produced after the Swift takeover lost some of the brand's distinctive design character. The dedicated Autocruise owners' club also reportedly lost manufacturer support after the acquisition.

Sliding door seal issues on Rhythm models — water ingress through the sliding door rubber seal has been reported, even on relatively new vehicles. Check the door seal condition and look for water marks on adjacent fabrics.

Limited interior space on van conversions — while cleverly designed, van conversions are inherently more compact than coachbuilts. If you're tall, need significant storage or require separate living and sleeping areas, a van conversion may feel cramped for extended stays.

Commission a professional damp check — this is non-negotiable on any Autocruise motorhome. Use a calibrated damp meter on every wall panel, around every window, around all locker openings, the overcab area (on coachbuilts), behind all furniture panels you can access, and along the floor edges. Pay particular attention to areas around side skirt screws.

Check locker seals thoroughly — Autocruise models are known for water ingress through exterior locker seals. Open every locker, inspect the seal condition, look for water staining inside, and feel the floor of each locker for dampness or softness.

Inspect the side skirts — water can track along side skirt fixing screws and cause hidden damp damage at floor level. Press firmly on the floor near the side walls — any sponginess indicates moisture damage that could extend further than it appears.

Test the sliding door seal (Rhythm and similar models) — open and close the sliding door while looking for water on the inner rubber seal. Check the adjacent fabric and wall panel for water marks or discolouration that would indicate ongoing ingress.

Check the base vehicle thoroughly — Autocruise used Fiat Ducato and Peugeot Boxer base vehicles. Check cam belt history, clutch operation, gearbox synchros, and look for oil leaks. On van conversions, also check the body panels for any corrosion around conversion cut-outs.

Verify the habitation service history — annual habitation checks should be documented. Gaps in the service history can indicate neglected maintenance and hidden problems.

Test all appliances and systems under load — run the heating, water heater, fridge (on both gas and electric), and test all 12V and 240V circuits. Autocruise electrical systems were adequate but not over-specified, so check for tripping issues under load.

As a discontinued brand, Autocruise motorhomes no longer carry any manufacturer warranty. Given the well-documented damp susceptibility and the age of most examples now on the market, an independent warranty backed by the RAC is particularly important.

Damp remediation alone can cost £2,000–£5,000+ depending on the extent of damage, and base vehicle mechanical repairs on ageing Fiat Ducato or Peugeot Boxer platforms can be costly. A comprehensive warranty provides essential protection against unexpected bills.

OakTree Motorhomes offer up to three years of RAC-backed warranty, providing valuable peace of mind on a used Autocruise where the original manufacturer support has long since ended.

When buying a used Autocruise, look for a dealer that offers an independent warranty backed by a provider like the RAC. This means your warranty remains valid even if the dealer ceases trading. OakTree Motorhomes offer up to three years of RAC-backed warranty, covering the average ownership period.