Knaus L!ve TI 650 MEG: Promising entry-level series
For model year 2018, the German camper manufacturer Knaus is introducing a new series of campers that should attract newcomers: L!ve, with – indeed – an exclamation point that underlines the strengths of this camper. We have tested the Knaus L!ve TI 650 MEG for you.
That Knaus has high expectations of its new entry-level camper is evident from the fact that three variants are immediately put on the market: an alcove camper, a 'normal' semi-integrated and a semi-integrated with a raised roof, which includes a fold-down bed. The trendy interior and the striking striping on the outside clearly show that Knaus focuses on a younger target group. The waterproof guarantee of no less than 10 years shows that no compromise has been made in the field of the now well-known Knaus quality.
Exterior of this Knaus
For this introduction we look at the Knaus L!ve TI 650 MEG semi-integrated: a version just under 7 meters, with two single beds in the rear part of the camper. If we take a walk around the camper, you would not say that we are dealing with an entry-level series: instead of the usual surface-mounted windows, we see Dometic built-in windows that we usually encounter in more expensive versions. The window in the door has also not been cut away. The camper is built on a Fiat Ducato chassis and the car is powered by the well-known 2.3 diesel Multijet (130 hp).
The floor of the Knaus L!ve TI 650 MEG consists of a wooden sandwich construction, the walls are made of aluminum and on top of the camper we see a more hail-resistant GRP roof, all well insulated with EPS foam. At the back of the camper is the spacious garage that is accessible from both sides, with plenty of space for camping chairs, a table and two bicycles. The gas bottles are accessible from the garage and via a service hatch outside. A second service hatch provides access to the water tank, 230 Volt connection and boiler. However, a few essential accessories are missing from the standard version of the L!ve, to reduce the starting price: passenger airbag, cruise control and engine air conditioning are included in an option package at an additional cost.
Living, eating, sleeping
With an entry-level series you expect a straight-forward interior, but certainly not the graceful round lines with which Knaus has equipped its L!ve, including the single beds in the back of the camper. Under the folding foot end we find an easily accessible cupboard space. A rectangular roof hatch has been placed above the beds, allowing a lot of light to enter.
The combined shower/toilet room on the left has a space-saving roller door. Behind it we see an easy-to-clean bank toilet from Thetford. A large mirror makes the room appear larger. The hinged wall to which the sink is attached and behind which the shower emerges is clever. Immediately next to the entrance door is a not too large kitchen, with two wide drawers. There is not much storage space, but extra work space is created by a fold-out countertop extension - which then blocks the access door.
Next to the kitchen is the narrow Thetford fridge/freezer combination - the white door gives it a modern, fresh look. If we turn both cabin stems around, a cozy seating area for five people is created at the front. The place in which the TV is hidden is refined: the device automatically rises from the backrest of the L-shaped sofa. Two large roof hatches provide plenty of light – and ventilation – into the vehicle. In the evening, the indirect lighting provides a lot of atmosphere.
Technique
A common place for the Truma Combi 6 heater/boiler is in the dinette sofa - this is also the case in the Knaus L!ve. The electrical block can be found right next to it. In the camper we find four outlets for the heater and no fewer than five 230 Volt connections – more than enough for the average camper. Unfortunately, there is only one USB socket to be found; that could be better. There is no 230V socket in the garage, so you have to come up with something else for the electric bicycles, or have the dealer install an extra socket.
Conclusion test Knaus L!ve TI 650 MEG
The Knaus L!ve Ti 650 MEG is built according to the usual Knaus quality. The 10-year waterproof guarantee speaks volumes in that regard. To achieve an interesting price tag, a few important basic features are still missing, such as the second airbag (passenger), cruise control and engine-driven air conditioning – which you must order immediately. Hats off to the smart shower/toilet area and the attractive interior.
Plus minus
+ 10 year watertightness guarantee
+ luxurious appearance
+ nice shower/toilet room
– steps at the seating area and beds
– passenger airbag at extra cost
– only 1 USB
Facts & Figures
MOTORIZATION
Chassis Fiat Ducato with wide track chassis
Engine 2.3 Multijet (130 hp)
Max power 96kW (130 hp) at 3.600 rpm
Max torque 320 Nm at 1.500 rpm
DIMENSIONS
Length: 698 cm
Width: cm 232
Height: 279 cm
Headroom: 200 cm
Wheelbase: 3.800 mm
Maximum mass: 3.500 kg
Curb weight: 2.930 kg
Load capacity: 570 kg
Number of seats/sleeping places: 4/2+1
Rear beds: 198×81 cm and 193×81 cm
Price from: €66.002,00
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