Legends are born from extraordinary journeys. For 2027, Swift is bringing a little of that legendary spirit to the open road with the launch of the all-new Merlin campervan range. Named after one of Britain's most famous mythical figures, the Merlin arrives with nine layouts, clever space-saving design and impressive levels of standard specification. With Fiat Ducato foundations, lithium power and the choice of fixed-roof or pop-top models, this is a campervan range with plenty of tricks up its sleeve.
At Highbridge Caravans, we're delighted to introduce this exciting new addition to the Swift line-up. As an official Swift dealership, we offer manufacturer-backed support, tailored finance options, thorough pre-delivery inspections and ongoing aftercare from our dedicated service team.
Layout Breakdown by Vehicle Length
The 2027 Swift Merlin range features nine different layouts. At Highbridge Caravans, we're pleased to offer five models from the line-up: the Merlin 112, 122, 144, 164 and 174.
- Merlin 112 (2 Berth / 4 Belted Seats): Features a forward dinette incorporating swivel cab seats, a mid-ship kitchen and washroom, and a rear lounge area converting into a comfortable double bed over a storage area.
- Merlin 122 (2 Berth / 2 Belted Seats): Designed specifically for couples who prioritize social lounging. It omits the forward dinette to provide a spacious rear U-shaped lounge that converts into either twin single beds or an expansive double bed.
- Merlin 144 (2 Berth / 4 Belted Seats): Features a dual-lounge layout with a forward dinette (two forward-facing travelling seats) and a rear parallel lounge that transforms into a double bed.
- Merlin 164 (2 Berth / 4 Belted Seats): Features a permanent fixed transverse rear double bed positioned above a dedicated garage storage compartment, alongside a front dinette with four travelling seats.
- Merlin 174 (2 Berth / 4 Belted Seats): Offers twin high-level fixed single beds (convertible into a large double) situated above a substantial rear garage locker measuring approximately 1,090mm in width, 965mm in height, and 790mm in depth—ideal for bikes and outdoor gear.
Base Vehicle Architecture and Mechanical Engineering
Every 2027 Swift Merlin is built on the dependable Fiat Ducato panel van, with three vehicle lengths available:
- Medium Wheelbase: 5.41 metres
- Long Wheelbase: 6.00 metres
- Extra-Long Wheelbase: 6.36 metres
All Swift Merlin models are powered by Fiat's 2.2-litre Multijet Euro 6Ebis turbo diesel engine, delivering 140bhp to the front wheels. The eight-speed automatic gearbox upgrade is fitted to all five Merlin models available at Highbridge Caravans, with the upgrade already included in our advertised prices for a smooth, effortless driving experience.
The cab is particularly well equipped, featuring:
- 10-inch HD touchscreen infotainment system.
- DAB radio, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- Wireless smartphone charging.
- Automatic air conditioning and cruise control.
- Digital instrument cluster and electronic parking brake.
- Leather-trimmed steering wheel.
- Swivelling captain's chairs with double armrests.
All Merlin models have a Maximum Authorised Mass (MTPLM) of 3,500kg, making them suitable for drivers holding a standard UK Category B driving licence, subject to the usual licence conditions.
Payload varies by model, with the lighter layouts offering particularly generous carrying capacity. For example, the Merlin 112 has a quoted payload of 815kg, while the larger Merlin 164 and 174 offer 570kg and 515kg respectively.
Lithium power comes as standard
One of the Merlin's most appealing features is its electrical specification.
Every model includes a 100Ah lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) leisure battery as standard. This provides a lighter, more efficient alternative to traditional lead-acid batteries, with greater usable capacity and faster charging.
For touring away from electrical hook-up, that's a welcome advantage.
The onboard electrical and water systems are managed through a 4-inch colour touchscreen control panel above the entrance door. From here, owners can monitor:
- Leisure battery voltage and charge level.
- Fresh water and waste water levels.
- Internal temperature.
- Lighting circuits.
- Water pump operation.
The fresh water tank holds 91 or 93 litres depending on layout, while the waste water capacity is 58 litres.
Life on Board: Comfort, Culinary Facilities, and Thermal Engineering
The interior of the Swift Merlin combines modern Scandinavian-inspired aesthetic choices with high-grade components engineered for year-round UK and European touring.
Interior Furnishings and Sleep Ergonomics
Interior furniture is styled in contemporary 'Sangallo Elm' woodgrain, complemented by stain-resistant Charcoal soft furnishings, Tora Tela and Grau accent wall panels, chrome locker handles, and heavy-duty Mill Oak Grege vinyl flooring. Fixed-bed models (164, 264, 174, 274) feature exclusive Duvalay Duvalite Alto mattresses, constructed with lightweight memory fiber technology that regulates temperature and provides anatomical spinal support.
Four-Season Insulation and Climate Control
To ensure interior warmth during winter touring, the body shell features high-performance 3M Thinsulate insulation fitted within the wall and roof cavities. This thermal barrier is supported by an insulated composite one-piece floor and double-glazed, tinted acrylic windows with integrated Horrex pleated blackout blinds and flyscreens.
Space heating and domestic hot water are generated by a Whale 6kW underfloor blown-air heating system paired with an 8-litre rapid water heater. Mounting the heating unit beneath the chassis floor preserves precious internal storage lockers while distributing heat evenly throughout the living quarters.
Kitchen Infrastructure
The kitchen is planned to maximize food preparation space within panel van dimensions. Standard kitchen amenities include:
- Cooking Facilities: A combined Dometic stainless-steel unit with a two-burner gas hob and flush-fitting sink with heat-resistant glass covers, plus a built-in flatbed microwave integrated into the overhead lockers.
- Refrigeration: Compact models (112 and 122) feature a 50-litre compressor fridge, while larger models (144 through 274) include an 80-litre Dometic compressor fridge with an integrated freezer compartment. Compressor fridges run efficiently off the 12V lithium power system without requiring level vehicle parking.
- Storage & Extension: Soft-close drawer runners and fold-away worktop extension flaps.
Onboard Washroom Facilities
Located mid-ship behind a space-saving tambour door, the washroom provides full independence from campsite amenities. Features include:
- A Thetford electric-flush cassette toilet with an independent 18-litre wheeled waste tank.
- A molded shower tray with a separate shower mixer tap and an Ecocamel Jetstorm shower head, designed to deliver a powerful, aerated shower while conserving onboard water.
- A foldaway washbasin situated below an illuminated vanity cabinet.
Merlin, Carrera or Trekker? Understanding the Swift Line-Up
When selecting a campervan, understanding how the Merlin fits within Swift's broader 2027 lineup helps clarify its value proposition.
Swift Merlin vs. Swift Carrera
- Positioning: The Merlin is Swift’s entry-level range, while the Carrera sits directly above it in the lineup.
- Heating & Cooking Architecture: For 2027, the Carrera transitions to a gas-free, fully off-grid setup featuring diesel space heating, an induction hob, and an air fryer. The Merlin retains a versatile dual-fuel approach, utilizing a Whale underfloor gas/electric heating system and a Dometic two-burner gas hob alongside a built-in microwave.
- Shared Technology: Both ranges benefit from standard 100Ah lithium leisure batteries, Fiat Ducato base vehicles, and high-level cab infotainment. The Merlin offers a lower price entry point while delivering comparable driving refinement.
Swift Merlin vs. Swift Trekker
- Base Platform: The Merlin is built on the Fiat Ducato chassis, whereas the Trekker utilizes a Ford Transit panel van platform with rugged, off-road inspired styling.
- Layout Versatility: The Trekker focuses on two core adventure layouts (Trekker X and XF), whereas the Merlin provides nine distinct floorplans, giving buyers a wider choice between rear lounge conversions, fixed transverse double beds, twin single beds over garages, and pop-top roofs.
Merlin in the Broader Panel Van Market
In comparison to broader market alternatives (such as VW California pop-tops or competitor Ducato conversions), the Swift Merlin stands out by offering standard lithium battery technology, 6kW underfloor blown-air heating, an integrated washroom with cassette toilet, and a 3,500kg MTPLM driving weight across all floorplans at a competitive entry price.
Start Your Merlin Journey at Highbridge Caravans
The 2027 Swift Merlin range represents a benchmark in entry-level campervan engineering, combining lithium power, four-season insulation, Ducato driving dynamics, and flexible floorplans into an accessible package.
As your official Swift Dealership, Highbridge Caravans invites you to visit our Somerset branch to explore the Merlin range in person. Our experienced team is ready to walk you through the various floorplans, demonstrate the lithium electrical systems, and arrange test drives.
Browse our latest selection of new Swift motorhomes and campervans at Highbridge Caravans. View current stock and availability on our Swift motorhome stock page.