The 2025 Pilote V540G Is the Ultra-Compact but Complete Motorhome That Will Surprise You

That sounds almost like a paradox, but in the world of RVs and mobile homes, we all know that it's possible. Pilote, a storied French builder of motorhomes and campervans, is a good example of that – and their smallest panelvan even more so.

Pilote started out in 1962 when cabinet maker Andre Padiou built his first caravan for personal use in his workshop in Limouziniere, France. A decade later, Padiou traveled to the U.S. and returned with fresh ideas that paved the way for the first Pilote motorhome. In the years that have passed since, Pilote has grown into a French market leader and a well-known name throughout the Old Continent.

The Vega range is comprised of "panelvans," so right off the bat, we're talking about compact cargo vehicles converted into motorhomes. The V540G model is the smallest of all Vega Pilote units, but it's still capable of offering all the basic features, sleeping for the entire family (if the family doesn't count with more than four members, two of which are young kids), and extra comfort and style.

The Vega range is also meant to be a more affordable option to larger RVs while bringing advantages such as higher maneuverability and accessibility in places where a larger RV would simply not fit. Think narrow city streets or mountain roads.

Built on a Fiat chassis, the V540G is just 5.41 meters (17.7 feet) long, 2.05 meters (6.7 feet) wide, and 2.67 meters (8.7 feet) high. With a maximum permissible weight of 3.5 tons (7,716 lbs), it offers a payload of 700 kg (1,543 lbs) and a versatile layout that allows you to bring even extra gear like a pair of bikes and plenty of smaller items.

The kitchen is on the same side as the sliding door, comprised of a single but large block that integrates a sink and two-burner gas range unit, a pull-out fridge, and plenty of storage options. An extendable countertop adds a bit to the overall counter space, but you can also use the fold-out dining table across the way to that same end.

The dinette is standard to what you'll find in most motorhomes: two front-facing belted seats, a fold-out table, and swiveling cabin seats. Optionally, you can add a second bed here, so you get extra sleeping for one adult or two children. Needless to say, though, given the compact dimensions of the van, you're looking at a very cramped RV with 4-person occupancy.

As a couple's RV, though, it's just perfect, offering the right blend of functionality and comfort. It's still very compact, which means you can step right into the bathroom from the kitchen, but at least you get a full bathroom. With RVs like this, it's all about putting things into perspective.

So, the bathroom is right across the way from the kitchen, sandwiched between the rear bedroom and the dinette. It's a wet one but surprisingly large for the size of the van, with a large shower, a bench toilet, and a drop-down sink with extra storage up top.

The bedroom at the rear has a queen bed placed transversally, with storage on either end. The mattress is actually a foldable one, and the bed slats can be removed, so you get extra space in the middle for storage. You can even squeeze a pair of slim bicycles in here, if you don't feel like paying for the optional bike rack.

Under the bed, accessible from the outside, you have a locker for the propane tanks and, on the opposite side, another locker for the water pump. You can add an optional shower with cold water here, and it would come in handy for hosing down gear or maybe a muddy pooch.

In standard spec, the Pilote V540G comes with a 140-HP engine with manual transmission, the Eco Pack, a 90-liter (23.7-gallon) diesel tank, an 85-liter (3 cu-ft) compressor fridge, 110 liters (29 gallons) of fresh water and a 90-liter (23.7-gallon) tank for wastewater. You also get a 120W solar panel on the roof with a pair of lithium batteries and a Truma Combi 4 space heater.

Options include a Grand Comfort Pack and a Premium Pack that includes everything from heated water tanks to the exterior shower, an awning, backlighting, premium black upholstery, and premium graphite exterior styling. Alternatively, you can upgrade only the features you think you'd need more of, from the engine to the solar array, the size of the diesel tank, or cosmetic touchups like interior colors and fabrics.

The 2025 Pilote G450G starts at around €60,000 ($62,500 at the current exchange rate), but pricing will vary according to options and the dealer you're working with. For a brand-new mini-motorhome, it's affordable when compared to other models on the European market.