Swift Kon-Tiki Buying Guide for Wild Camping

The Kon-Tiki Legacy

The Swift Kon-Tiki has been one of the UK's most recognised motorhome names for over three decades. Sitting at the premium end of Swift's range, the Kon-Tiki offers A-class and low-profile coachbuilt motorhomes built for serious touring. For wild camping enthusiasts, the Kon-Tiki's combination of space, build quality, and self-sufficiency features makes it a compelling choice on the used market.

Understanding the differences between model years and layout variations is essential when buying used. The Kon-Tiki range has evolved significantly, and not every version suits every buyer. This guide walks you through what to look for, what to avoid, and which models work best for wild camping.

Model Generations and Key Changes

Pre-2011 Models (Fiat Ducato X250)

Earlier Kon-Tikis were built on the Fiat Ducato X250 platform with Swift's traditional timber-framed construction. These are the most affordable on the used market, typically £25,000–£40,000 depending on age and condition. Build quality was good for the era, though the timber frame construction means damp checks are absolutely critical when buying.

Popular models from this era include the 669 (end lounge, ideal for couples) and the 590 (compact layout with rear fixed bed). Mechanically, the 2.3-litre and 3.0-litre Fiat MultiJet engines are well-proven and parts are readily available.

2011–2016 Models (SMART Construction)

Swift introduced their SMART construction method during this period — a bonded timber-free body shell that dramatically improved damp resistance. This generation represents the sweet spot for used buyers: modern enough to benefit from improved construction, old enough to have depreciated significantly. Expect to pay £35,000–£55,000.

The 669 continued as the flagship layout, whilst the 684 offered a popular island bed configuration. Swift also refined the habitation equipment during this period, with better heating systems and improved electrical installations.

2017 onwards (Current Generation)

The most recent Kon-Tikis feature Swift's latest SMART Plus construction with enhanced insulation, improved aerodynamics, and modern interior design. These command premium prices on the used market (£50,000–£80,000+) but offer the best specification and build quality in the range's history.

Current models include the 649 (end lounge), 674 (island bed), and larger six-berth variants for families. The addition of the Swift Command smart control system allows remote monitoring of battery, temperature, and security — genuinely useful for wild camping.

Layout Guide: Which Kon-Tiki for Wild Camping?

End Lounge (669/649)

The end lounge layout is the wild camper's favourite. A spacious rear lounge converts to a generous double bed at night, whilst providing comfortable seating during the day. This layout excels for couples who want sociable living space and don't need fixed sleeping arrangements. The lounge's panoramic windows make the most of remote camping views.

Fixed Island Bed (684/674)

If convenience matters more than lounge space, the island bed layout means no daily bed-making routine. Walk-around access makes middle-of-the-night bathroom trips easier, and storage beneath the bed is generous. The trade-off is a slightly smaller living area, but for extended wild camping trips, the convenience often wins.

Six-Berth Family Layouts

Larger Kon-Tikis with overcab beds or bunk arrangements suit families. These are less common on the used market and command slightly higher prices due to demand. For wild camping, the extra berths mean more weight, higher fuel consumption, and potentially more challenging parking — but families need the space.

Wild Camping Suitability

The Kon-Tiki scores well for self-sufficiency. Most models include:

• Truma Combi heating — runs on gas or electric, keeping you warm without hook-ups
• 100+ litre fresh water tanks — sufficient for 3–4 days of careful use
• Solar panel pre-wiring (later models) — easy to add panels for off-grid power
• Large habitation batteries — adequate for LED lighting, water pump, and charging

For serious off-grid use, consider upgrading the leisure battery to lithium and adding 200W+ of solar. The Kon-Tiki's roof space accommodates this easily, and the Swift Command system (2017+) monitors battery state remotely.

What to Check When Buying Used

Damp (Critical)

Pre-2011 timber-framed Kon-Tikis are vulnerable to water ingress. Insist on a professional damp survey — not just a seller's assurance. Check around windows, the rear panel, overcab area, and floor edges. Even post-2011 SMART construction models should be tested, though they're significantly more resistant.

Habitation Service History

Annual habitation checks are essential, not optional. These verify gas systems, electrical safety, water hygiene, and structural integrity. A complete service history suggests a conscientious owner. Missing services should trigger negotiation or walking away.

Base Vehicle Condition

The Fiat Ducato is reliable but not immune to problems. Check for suspension wear (common with heavy coachbuilts), clutch condition on manual models, and cambelt replacement history on the 2.3 MultiJet. Automatic models (available on later versions) command a premium but are easier to drive on long tours.

Interior Wear

High-use areas include the cab seats (check for bolster wear), the habitation door step (aluminium can corrode), and kitchen worktops. Upholstery condition indicates overall care level — a well-maintained interior usually means a well-maintained vehicle.

Pricing Guide

Used Kon-Tiki prices vary significantly by age, layout, and condition:

• 2008–2012: £25,000–£42,000 — excellent value if damp-free
• 2013–2016: £38,000–£55,000 — the sweet spot for quality vs price
• 2017–2020: £50,000–£70,000 — modern spec, good depreciation curve
• 2021+: £65,000–£85,000+ — near-new pricing, best specification

End lounge models (669/649) typically hold value better than other layouts. Low mileage and full service history add 10–15% to asking prices.

The Verdict

The Swift Kon-Tiki remains one of the best all-round motorhomes for UK wild camping. Its combination of British build quality, practical layouts, and strong dealer support makes ownership straightforward. For couples, the end lounge 669/649 is hard to beat. For convenience seekers, the island bed variants offer hassle-free living.

Browse Swift Kon-Tiki models in our showroom or set up a stock alert to be notified when one arrives.