Crusader releases new Chameleon box camper

Pakenham, Victoria-based Willow RV wasn’t the only caravan manufacturer to display a new compact, composite-bodied camper at the Victorian Supershow, with Epping, Victorian manufacturer Crusader also unveiling their take on the fast-growing ‘box’ camper category.

Described as a “game changer” by Crusader, the new 5.3m (travel length), rear entry door Chameleon is available with different layouts to cater for a range of activities, family sizes and storage needs.

The two examples on display at the Supershow both had two single beds (or a double if you slide them together), towards the front under the sloping front roof section. The rear half then comprised either a small fridge, three-seat lounge and ceiling-to-floor cupboards, or a small internal kitchen with sink and large fridge/freezer and a combination shower/toilet.

Both Chameleons on display were equipped as standard with slide-out external kitchens and external hot/cold showers, with their roof bars carrying either a kayak or surfboard.

The Chameleon campers also come standard with a 95L water tank and pump, gas hot water, 120Ah battery, remote control LED lighting, 15in alloy wheels, roof-mounted solar panels, 110L fridge, gas bayonet, windows with screens and blinds, and a spare wheel.

Tare weights for the Chameleon start at around 910kg (with an ATM of 1300kg), while the optioned up shower/toilet Chameleon on display at the Supershow weighed 1360kg (Tare) with an ATM of 2074kg.

The shower/toilet Chameleon on display was priced at $33,990, while the more basic 'Action Van' version with lounge and extra internal storage was priced at $24,990.

Lightweight box campers are all the rage right now, with Queensland’s Zone RV also joining the party recently with its up-spec off-road Expedition. Like the Zone, Crusader's camper offers decent standing room; in the case of the Chameleon, a big caravan-like 1900mm maximum interior height, albeit only at the rear of the camper.