Crusader launches new compact composite caravan
Lightweight, 13ft full composite caravan aimed at first-timers and down-sizersMelbourne’s Crusader Caravans has unveiled a new fixed roof, full composite compact caravan that delivers many of the features of larger vans, including an internal shower/toilet, kitchen, dinette and double bed, but in a smaller, lightweight 13ft long body.
Described as a ‘market first’ by the big-selling Epping, Victoria based caravan manufacturer, the new fully insulated CRV van is aimed at the increasing number of first-time caravan buyers, as well as more experienced RV travelers looking to down-size to a more user-friendly towing rig.
The new Crusader CRV range comprises three variants: the entry-level CRV Esperance with tarmac-oriented independent torsion beam suspension and 50mm ball coupling on its galvanized chassis, and the more off-road focused Gladiator and Hurricane variants, which feature either independent coil spring or airbag suspension with Cruisemaster DO-35 coupling.
All CRV variants offer a similar two-berth couple’s layout, including rear side-entry security door, a kitchenette and combination shower/toilet along the rear wall; central wardrobe, fridge and microwave, and a front lounge/bed area that converts from two single beds (or a dinette with removable swivel table), to a double bed at night if required.
Small footprint, big feature list
The base Crusader CRV Esperance comes equipped externally with two 9kg gas bottles, 15in alloy wheels, 10in electric brakes, a 62 litre freshwater tank, gas bayonet, external entertainment/TV locker, picnic table, roll-out awning and a spare tyre mounted on the rear bumper.
Also included is a 190W rooftop solar panel and 105Ah AGM battery and charger, while internal appliances include a four-burner cooktop and grille, rangehood, 108 litre fridge/freezer, microwave, rooftop air-conditioner, 12V fan, gas/electric hot water unit, 24in TV and radio with inside/outside speakers, and a digital control panel.
Externally there’s also a front tunnel boot, while internal storage options include a large wardrobe, kitchen drawers and cupboards, ensuite cupboard and overhead lockers and a slide-out drawer in the bed area.
The ensuite includes a fibreglass shower cubicle with curtain and window, vanity basin and a cassette toilet.
A roof hatch and four double glazed windows provide natural light and ventilation for the full fibreglass sandwich panel body, which includes one-piece sections for the walls, roof and floor.
Tare weights for the Crusader CRV start around 1350kg (with an ATM of 1800kg and ball weight around 90kg) for the entry-level Esperance, with the mid-spec Gladiator’s Tare around 1650kg (with a 2700kg ATM) and top-spec Hurricane weighing around 1950kg (Tare) with a 3000kg ATM.
The Crusader CRV measures 5950mm long and 2205mm wide overall, with an overall height of 2780mm for the Esperance.
Aimed at younger buyers too
Crusader Caravans’ marketing manager Ana Maria Osorio said the CRV is also aimed at younger buyers, as well as those seeking a more comfortable, caravan-style alternative to the similar-length Chameleon hybrid box camper introduced in early-2019.
“More people want to go caravanning than ever before, but many have little or no experience with caravans,” she said. “So they want a simple solution (but) they also want an affordable solution.
“The CRV range represents luxurious top-end caravanning at an entry level price point. Never before has this combination of features been made available at this price point.”
Pricing for the new CRV vans will start around $45,000 for the Esperance, with the Gladiator and top-spec Hurricane versions set to be priced around $55,000 and $85,000 respectively.
As well as coil trailing arm suspension and increased ground clearance, the off-road CRV Gladiator gets extra features like bigger wheels and off-road tyres, and more checker plate body protection, solar panels and water carrying capacity. While the extreme off-road Hurricane is fitted with luxuries like hydraulic disc brakes, a dust reduction system, satellite TV, rear camera, external spotlights, lithium batteries and a space heater.
Although the order book at Crusader's factory has stretched out to late-2021 delivery in some cases, the manufacturer is offering 50 ‘early bird’ production slots to enable first customer deliveries of CRV vans around mid-2021. A range of exterior decal and interior décor colours are also available.
Click here to read our 'first look' review of the new CRV Esperance...
Also read:
Please see our Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics (including for more information about sponsored content and paid events). The information published on this website is of a general nature only and doesn’t consider your particular circumstances or needs.
