Grandcruiser raises the bar

Displayed -- appropriately -- on dirt at the 2014 Queensland Caravan & Camping Show, alongside its bigger GC1750 brother, the new Grandcruiser 1550 X Trax is aimed at buyers looking for a relatively light, two berth ensuite van that can hold its own off the beaten track.

Based on the standard, 1550 touring model, the X Trax version adds 15in alloy wheels with chunky off-road tyres, rear bar with tyre carrier and fuel containers, and off-road coupling.

Offering plenty of road clearance, the aero-styled van also features fibreglass foam sandwich panel construction, hot dipped galvanised chassis and coil, trailing arm independent suspension.

The smooth gloss white exterior look continues inside, with white interior walls contrasted with black benchtops and leather upholstery. Up front is an east-west queen-sized bed (two singles are also available), as well as a two-person dinette with portable table.

The kitchenette includes a gas stove/stainless steel sink combo, 150 litre fridge/freezer and microwave, while the rear bathroom has a separate shower and toilet.

Other standard features include gas/240V hot water system, radio/CD player, 19in TV/DVD, reverse cycle air-conditioning, LED lighting, 100Ah battery and charger, two 85 litre water tanks, roll-out awning, 120W solar panel, and various internal and external storage compartments.

The model on display at the Queensland show also featured an eye-catching fibreglass bin on the A-frame that housed a washing machine and generator in separate enclosed compartments, accessible by gull-wing doors, as well as two 4.5kg gas bottles.

It had a Tare weight of 1620kg, 2000kg ATM,  and ball mass of 180kg,  along with a ‘show special’ price of $44,990.

See the GrandCruiser site for more.