Hymer Exsis-i 588: Success Story
With much – and deserved – fanfare, Hymer introduced the B-class ‘Dynamic Line’ in 2017. The weight reduction of that series was truly spectacular, as all components were redeveloped, from chassis to door handles. Many of these elements are reflected in the Hymer Exsis-i 588.
Hymer initiated the innovation with the development of the B-DL, a narrower version of the popular B-class: 222 versus 230 centimeters. This makes it more manageable in traffic and is also the main reason for its slimming down. It saves quite a few kilos when you make a camper eight centimeters narrower over its entire length. But in addition, hundreds of components have been re-engineered, with only one goal: to make it lighter, without compromising on quality.
The Hymer Exsis-i 588 also benefits from this diet. And when they stand side by side, you really have to look twice: the Exsis-i and the B-Dynamic Line look like twin brothers. Only the height difference reveals that the Exsis-i has to do without the double floor of the Dynamic Line: this makes it almost 20 cm lower, which also saves weight: 150 kilos.
Exterior Hymer Exsis-i 588
For this camper test, we are looking at the Hymer Exsis-i 588: the popular model with single beds in the back. This layout receives much applause due to the large full-width garage, which easily accommodates two (electric) bicycles and camping chairs. The garage is easily accessible from both sides via large doors in the side walls.
The 60 cm wide entrance to the living area is equipped with an electric step that you operate with a switch. At the front door, you can opt for the same type of step, but one that automatically extends and retracts when the driver's door is opened and closed – handy for smaller people, as the step is quite high. Another convenient option in the test vehicle is the pull-out drawer in the gas locker. This allows you to pull both gas bottles out without lifting.
PUAL sandwich panels
A special feature of Hymer is the construction method with the 34 mm thick, wood-free PUAL sandwich panels that have been used for years in the factory in Bad Waldsee, Bavaria. 'PU' stands for the polyurethane insulation material and 'AL' for the aluminum outer cladding. New is that from model year 2018, aluminum sheet is now also used for the inner wall, ensuring a rigid, durable construction.
Takes some getting used to
Because the Exsis-i does not have a double floor, there are steps to the cabin and to the sleeping area – tripping hazards that you, as a future user, will have to get used to. The swivel cabin seats quickly create a cozy seating area for four people. The Exsis-i is available with two different furniture decors and upholstery variants.
Modest kitchen
Beautiful is the indirect LED lighting along the ceilings, at the pull-down bed in the cabin and under the kitchen counter. The kitchen is not large: the Smev hob and sink, which can be covered with white glass plates, take up almost the entire counter. A fold-out counter extension offers a bit more workspace, but restricts access to the outside. Three large soft-close pull-out drawers are mounted under the counter. The upper cabinets have a hidden closure in the handles. Directly next to the kitchen unit is the slim Dometic fridge/freezer combination plus oven.
Bathroom
Opposite, we find the combined toilet/shower with Thetford bench toilet and washbasin. Furniture panels also provide a luxurious look here. When showering, a plastic folding door prevents a wet toilet area and – cleverly! – the wooden access door is covered with plastic to protect against splashes.
Sleeping area
At the back of the Hymer Exsis-i 588 are the high single beds, accessible with steps in which small items can be stored. The two sleeping places can be transformed in an instant – with a filler piece (option) – into a spacious two-person mattress of two by two meters. Getting in is then a bit more difficult, with a ladder. An extra sleeping place is the two-person pull-down bed in the cabin, which you lower manually (optional: electrically) above the front seats. A wooden ladder ensures you can climb into it.
Technology
The Hymer Exsis-i 588 is built on a Fiat Ducato with the familiar 2.3 liter MultiJet diesel engine (130 or 150 hp) with Euro 6 approval. In terms of technology, Hymer is known for its large number of safety features that are standard on board. Of course ABS, but also ESP (stability system), a system against wheel spin (ASR) and EBD which distributes the braking force over the four wheels. The Hill Holder also prevents the camper from rolling backwards when starting on inclines.
The water tanks (drinking water and waste water) are mounted between the chassis beams and are easily accessible from the camper via floor hatches. Under the dinette bench we find the heart of the electrical installation and the Truma 6 combi (heater and boiler). Pipes and cables are neatly installed and concealed in the Exsis-i. It is pleasant that power points and USB connections can be found everywhere in the camper. The 230 Volt socket in the garage shows that – just like with the B-class Dynamic Line – every detail has been thought through: handy for charging e-bikes.
The price
Finally: the price tag. The Hymer Exsis-i 588 is about 10 thousand cheaper than its big brother. With this, Hymer creates a formidable competitor within the integrated motorhome segment. Also for its own B-class Dynamic Line.
Conclusion camper test Hymer Exsis-i 588
Pros & Cons
+ lightweight construction
+ high payload
+ ample 230V & 12V sockets plus USB connections
– steps at front seats and beds
– second airbag not standard
Facts & Figures
(manufacturer's specification)
ENGINE
Chassis Fiat Ducato with AL-KO AMC chassis
Engine 2.3 MultiJet2, 4 cylinder diesel
Maximum power 96 kW (130hp) at 3,600 rpm
Maximum torque 320 Nm at 1,500 rpm
DIMENSIONS
Length 699 cm
Width 222 cm
Height 277 cm
Headroom 184/198 cm
Wheelbase 3,300 mm
Maximum mass 3,500 kg
Ready-to-drive weight 2,840 kg
Payload 660 kg
Number of seats/berths 4/4
Dimensions of single beds 200/190x80cm
Dimensions of drop-down bed 188x150cm
Price from: € 86,690 (including transport, registration, and delivery costs)
Hymer campers on offer
Curious about which Hymer campers and caravans are currently for sale? Click here for the offer
