Goldstream RV unveils industry-first layout

Melbourne's Goldstream RV will unveil a new 18ft 6in composite caravan at the inaugural Cranbourne Caravanning & Adventure Leisurefest, featuring a unique centre-ensuite layout that the 33-year old manufacturer says has never been done before.

Taking pride of place in Goldstream's new indoor showroom at its Pakenham, Victoria headquarters, Sales Manager Mitch Damyon was keen to give us a sneak peek of his “new baby”, the centre ensuite 1860 Series model, before its debut at the new Victorian show next month.

“A lot of people like the idea of a centre ensuite as it creates a divide between the living area and the sleeping area," Mitch explained. "It enables one person to have a nap and another to read a book, for example.

"Until now, only larger, heavier 'vans have provided this kind of layout. The problem is that not everyone wants to upgrade their tow vehicle to get a centre ensuite 'van. So, we set the goal to make the layout work in a smaller, lighter 'van.”

On first appearances, Goldstream has executed well.

The rear features an L-shaped lounge instead of a club lounge, which you often see in larger centre ensuite models, and allows room for the rear entry door and a handy pantry.

The most significant compromise is the shortened bench space, but this is countered in two ways. Locating the seating along the rear wall allows room for benches on both sides of the 'van. While a portable induction cooker is used instead of a fixed unit, so there's more bench space when not in use.

The centre ensuite is compact and functional, with room for a wall-mounted washing machine. The configuration also allows for a nice, wide opening for the shower, providing enhanced access to those with limited mobility or ample proportions.

Up front, the bedroom is nicely appointed with the usual island queen bed, overhead lockers and bedside robes/drawers. While the large double windows on both sides are a nice touch for plenty of ventilation and natural light.

Following Goldstream's move away from timber frames in 2024, the 1860 Series features 30mm fibreglass composite walls, a 17mm honeycomb floor and a composite roof finished with aluminium capping.

Combined with the galvanised truss chassis, the package is designed to keep weight to a minimum while maximising strength.

The 1860 Series is available in four variants, with the base 'Adventure CP' semi off-road model starting at $88,990. It gets Cruisemaster’s CRS Country Road Suspension and modest off-grid power, such as a 200Ah battery and 220W solar.

While weights are not available for all the new variants yet, Mitch reckons the tare weight will be around 2600kg, making it towable by a wider range of vehicles.

The next step up is the Adventure CP Plus, starting at $99,990, which has several internal and external upgrades, such as enhanced furniture/plumbing trim, a washing machine, grey water tank, and extended A-frame and toolbox, to name a few.

The off-road models kick off with the Rhino CPX starting at $107,100 and get Cruismaster's XT coil suspension and DO-35 hitch. The Rhino CPX shares some of the Adventure CP Plus internal and external features, plus Tufflon protective coating on the front and sides.

The Rhino CPX Plus off-road range topper starts at $125,840 and incorporates air bags in the XT suspension. Some of its additional features include an extended A-frame, diesel heater, an external shower, and a cabin pressure dust reduction system.

The Rhino Plus also comes with a decent 12V system comprising a 300Ah battery, 660W solar and a 300W inverter, but for another $20,400 Goldstream is also offering a 48V power, gasless option for more comfortable off-grid living.

The integrated Projecta Intelligrid system includes a 5kW underfloor-mounted battery, 4000W inverter, 30A DC to DC charger and 880W Arizon solar panels. The package also comes with induction cooking, diesel heating, and electric HWS to complement the 48V power.

Mitch has been testing the Projecta 48V system and reports some impressive results, including running the 48V air conditioning for extended periods while operating multiple appliances concurrently.

The CPX Plus with 48V power we looked at is priced at $159,990, which also includes AL-KO sway control, an OGO compost toilet, double bedroom windows and wood storage box.

This full fruit version weighs in at 2882kg tare, making it around 280kg heavier than the base model. The upgrades will be worth the weight (and price) for some buyers, but for others, it will defeat the purpose of a lighter 'van. The good news is that you have the choice of four variants to choose from.

Formed in 1993, Goldstream has grown and evolved over the years, and its Pakenham site now includes seven factories. Its latest progression is the freshly set up 600sqm under-cover showroom capable of displaying around eight or nine 'vans.

The new showroom adds to the existing expansive outdoor display area.

“It’s a nice facility to make our customers' research experience a pleasant one regardless of the weather," Mitch said.

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