Karakampa gets a bit on the side

Like the idea of the ultra-light, all-composite Karakampa, but not too fussed with the rear door entry or rear ensuite?

The Melbourne-built ‘one-size-fits-all’ Karakampa caravan is now available in another style and layout, thanks to a recent buyer who wanted something a bit different.

Centaur Products Australia, which took over the manufacture of the slick, compact vans in early-2012, designed the new version after a customer requested a Karakampa without a bathroom. With extra room created at the rear, it was then decided to move the entry door from the rear to the side.

Otherwise, the compact, 4.1m long internal layout is relatively unchanged, including front north-south bed, L-shaped lounge/dinette and kitchen.

Even the overhead lockers have been retained, which results in a ‘floating’ locker arrangement as you enter the van, although the edges are rounded off to avoid any nasty, head-high incidents.

Centaur Products sales and marketing manager, Caroline Anderson, said the model on display at Melbourne Leisurefest had other customisations, including drawers under the dinette as well as the bed, instead of the usual ‘lift-up’ arrangement to access storage areas. There's also a skylight in lieu of a roof-mounted air-conditioner.

Externally, the side-door Karakampa also featured some checkerplate protection around the front edges as well as a stylish, pin-striped, two-tone colour scheme.

Anderson said the new version is slightly cheaper than the standard Karakampa – around $46,000 plus on-roads versus $47,500 for the original. It’s also 20kg lighter, with a Tare weight of 1320kg, 1700kg ATM and ball weight of 100kg.

Also on display at the Leisurefest show was a rear-entry Karakampa fitted with the latest ‘Hi-Rise’ suspension kit. A $1500 option, it adds 89mm more road clearance as well as larger 15in wheels.

Anderson said Centaur is considering further changes to the side-door Karakampa, such as adding a window to the otherwise blank rear wall. Other Karakampa variations also on the drawing board include a rear entry layout sans bathroom, and a longer Karakampa still light enough to be pulled by smaller tow vehicles.

Typical buyers so far for the unique Karakampa include retired couples, as well as first-time caravanners or those downsizing from a larger van.

“Or they’ve done the camper trailer thing and now want a bit more luxury,” she said.