Roller ‘right on the money’ with Zefiro 685 (formerly Wanderer)
Author: Peta Stavelli Date Posted: 7 August 2018
I admit to a few nerves before I picked up the Roller Team Zefiro 685 (formerly Wanderer). Being an island dweller, I still experience some butterflies in the unending chaos of city traffic. I was especially nervous about negotiating the notoriously busy northern system, where cars and trucks whizz by at high speed. But, I need not have been worried. The Roller Team Zefiro 685 is so nifty that it seems to anticipate the need for speed as much as it is refreshingly prepared for relaxation. In double quick time I was at ease behind the wheel; darting out into the busy traffic and negotiating the numerous roundabouts at the start of my journey like a delivery driver.
Yet when I arrived at a place where I could adopt a more relaxed pace, The Zefiro 685 seemed to drop a gear or two in eager anticipation of the quieter roads ahead. Perhaps I should not have been surprised. After all, under the bonnet of the Zefiro 685 is the ubiquitous Fiat Ducato motor. This is the vehicle of choice for the majority of contemporary motorhome manufacturers who have long recognised its versatility and adaptability.
Behind the wheel of the Zefiro 685 , with a 2.3 litre turbo engine at my disposal, I quickly forgot I had more than seven metres of vehicle tagging along for the ride. The automatic transmission was highly responsive. More than once I surprised myself by this Zefiro's alacrity when dropping my foot and darting off from a standing start to take advantage of a sudden break in the relentless traffic.
This augured well. At ease behind the wheel, I was able to take in some more of the vehicle’s features. It’s extraordinary how quickly one can lose the need for conventional rear vision when driving a vehicle equipped with side mirrors and reversing camera. I loved this aspect of the Zefiro 685, which really enhances a sense of safety on the motorway.
At my destination, I took in my takeaway home in more detail. I already knew when picking up the vehicle that this was a four berth with twin beds at the rear. But I still had to look for the ingeniously hidden double berth which was discreetly tucked away right over my head. I am a huge fan of drop down beds. Bless the original designer of this extraordinary feature which has transformed motorhoming more than any other recent innovation I can think of.
I love that a press of the button will magic away the necessities of night-time and deliver the day time set up. In this case, the day time Zefiro 685 offers a lovely L-shaped settee, with swivel cab seats, as well as a handy bench seat complete with a table for family gatherings. The versatility of this layout was not lost on me.
Sleeping arrangements can vary, depending on the owner’s needs. Grandparents might choose to use the twin beds in the rear bedroom for themselves and offer their grandchildren or other guests the drop down bed. Given that the drop down is 1900mm by 1820mm, this generous guest bed would not be a shabby option for the owner, either.
Others might choose to offer the children or grandchildren the twin beds at the rear. I know my grandchildren would love this opportunity. The elevated rear beds are even better than bunks, in my opinion. And one of the best things about this elevation (apart from the handy removable steps leading up to it which brought out the inner child in me) is the knowledge that everything extraneous is tucked away in the spacious garage underneath. This is definitely a winning feature.
And when it comes to creature comforts of the more pressing kind, the L-shaped galley with three-way fridge is a very workable design. I appreciated the corner hob with a lid that becomes extra prep space or a splash back and also really liked the generous sink adjacent. Everything is on hand within easy reach, and there is plenty of storage as well. I thought this wee galley was very workable and I know how important that is when on the road, especially as I am one of those travellers who cooks every meal from scratch.
The bathroom is located adjacent to the twin bedroom and also conveniently near the galley. It can, if desired, become an ensuite for the rear bedroom creating a lovely master suite. I love this idea; and I am also taken with the two-part set up comprising a separate toilet with hand basin on one side and a good-sized shower on the other.
The Zefiro 685 comes fully equipped for winter cruising with double-glazed windows and central heating. And with seatbelts and bike racks for four passengers, plus 100 litres of fresh water at your disposal; getting on the road comfortably with any combination of companions is made easy.
Roller Team is a young and progressive company that prides itself on innovation. I think this vehicle, with a modest drive-away price of just $104,000, will convince you they are on the money.
Quick Look
- Model: Zefiro 685
- Year: 2017
- Base Vehicle: Fiat Ducato
- Passengers: 4
- Outside length: 7430mm
- Outside width: 2310mm
- Height: 3000mm
