Expert Review
Benimar Tessoro 463 Review
With four-berths of fun and functionality, the Benimar Tessoro 463 has some trick touches that will raise the game on any holiday. Stand-out spec details include huge sleeping spaces and storage for almost anything you can imagine.
Words by: Auto Trader
Published on 20 August 2020 | 0 min read
The Auto Trader expert verdict:
4
Not only does the Tessoro 463 feature a drop down double bed in addition to twin singles (or a padded out uber bed) at the back, its use of space and separation to create individual rooms is impressive. This gives it an impressive first impression of not only a great motorhome, but a home in its own right. The motorhome for sale in this review was provided by Marquis South Yorkshire.
Reasons to buy:
- Luxury level of sleeping options, throughout.
- Loads of storage space for any size of item.
- Separate washroom and shower.
Drive
Powered by a 170bhp Euro 6 Ford Transit turbo diesel engine, the Tessoro's 3500kg MTPLM makes it an incredible option for any holidaymakers who may not have their B+E licence. Air con and cruise control offer comfort behind the wheel that matches the level of luxury throughout the living space, and Bluetooth hands-free ups the convenience. If that's not enough, you'll also find a reversing camera in the rear view mirror position.
There's on-the-road safety for four, with two seatbelts up front and two on the dining seating behind. Optional extras include a towbar (£1350) and a 170bhp automatic gearbox upgrade (£2000).
Expert rating: 4/5
Design
Based on the Ford Transit chassis, the coachbuilt Tessoro features environmental peace of mind courtesy of blown air heating, with stability issues sorted thanks to its rear corner steadies. Rotating cab captain seats at the front mean that there's never a shortage of sociable seating options for up to five people.
At the back of the motorhome is a huge garage, accessible from both sides (1130mm height x 1205mm width x 2175mm depth). Open the door and it's got a handy measuring aid on the door, too. The ruler means that you can double check bulkier items that you're putting in so that you're not left struggling to fit something in like a dog walking through a door with a stick in its mouth.
The exterior length measures in at 7380mm, and the width is 2300mm with the mirrors folded.
Expert rating: 5/5
Living
There are plenty of options for comfort here, with the size of the rear sleeping area ideal for lounging during the day, too.
There's a real sense of having different rooms throughout, especially as the shower cubicle and washroom/toilet have separate spaces on the nearside and offside, respectively.
The only real downside is that there isn't a huge number of convenient power points throughout the living space.
Expert rating: 4/5
Dining
The kitchen includes a large fridge and separate freezer, with a microwave at a convenient height. There's also a Thetford two-burner hob and hot plate atop a combi oven. Storage in the kitchen is certainly adequate but could leave you short if you travel heavy on ingredients and accessories. However, the pull-out vertical shelving is a nice touch, adding real practicality to the cooking space.
Considering the space available elsewhere in the motorhome, the dining area is where things feel a little compromised, although there is room for five so plenty of arrangement alternatives.
Expert rating: 3/5
Sleeping
The Tessoro comes into its own here, with a drop down bed (1390mm x 1900mm) over the living area and an enormous sleeping space to the rear, over the garage. Sleeping four in total, the rear beds can be split into singles (2x 800mm x 1900mm) or padded out in the middle to make a massive super sleeper. Fold-out steps from the centre under the mattress make for easy access, too.
Expert rating: 5/5
Value for money
The high specification and overall feel of the 463 makes its £59,995 OTR price well worth the spend. The versatility of usage here means that you'll still be using this motorhome even as your family grows or your situation evolves. Sleeping, storage, serenity... Sorted!
Expert rating: 4/5
Why buy?
Even though you've already read that the rear sleeping space in the Tessoro is massive – MASSIVE – it will still surprise you when you see it. The electric drop down bed makes for more night time novelty that works, but both offer real convenience and luxury for any family member. It's not just bells and whistles for show, here. There's a lot packed into a practical living area, and the additional garage means that you're able to extend your enjoyment by whichever means you wish with whatever you want to take.
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Expert rating: 5/5