Motorhomes shine at Sydney Supershow

Those looking for a new campervan or motorhome were spoilt for choice at this year’s NSW Caravan, Camping, RV & Holiday Supershow at Rosehill Racecourse.

Amongst the 20-odd brands on display were some enticing new models, updates and fresh options, with both the rugged-end and top-end motorhomes particularly well represented at the Sydney show.

Amongst the NSW manufacturers was Frontline, which brought along its new all-wheel drive VW Transporter to entice passersby. The 132kW model with Adventure two berth layout, was priced at a competitive $89,480.

While lacking perhaps in off-road ground clearance the upside is the Transporter’s wide body which particularly suits camper conversions. The interior fitout, which included full size fridge, microwave and swivel seats, certainly looked the goods.

Moving up a notch in size, Trakka displayed its latest, all-wheel drive, Mercedes Sprinter-based Jabiru... but with a slight twist. While similar to the one we tested last year, it also featured fixed ‘pod’ sides that allowed room for a larger bed but added to the van’s overall width.

Priced at $211,440, the fully-equipped display model was fitted with more than $50,000 worth of options from a 170 litre, long-range fuel tank and ducted air-con to alloy bull bar, winch and Hella Xenon driving lights.

Catching the eye at Jayco’s huge display was a red-painted motorhome, adding a splash of colour to the usual white brigade. According to Jayco factory manager, Bruce Astbury, premium models in RVs are selling well.

“Buyers are prepared to pay that extra bit for quality RVs so our new semi-custom two tone paint jobs are proving popular,” explained Astbury, a 24-year veteran at Jayco.

Also new was Jayco’s 2012 Conquest with north/south facing bed, which visitors John and Jean were keenly eyeing off.

“After many years we’re moving from our caravan to an RV and we like the layout of this Conquest,” explained John. “So we’re now negotiating the price,” added Jean with a smile.

Kea Campers brought along several models both for sale and hire. Arriving soon to boost the NZ company’s current five-vehicle Australian fleet is the new Kea Origin, said sales rep Sharon Brackstone.

Based on a Ford Transit 460, 2.4-litre chassis, the Origin will feature a queen sized rear bed and double in the Luton and should appeal particularly to families with small children.

Going all out at arguably Australia’s biggest RV show was Sydney-based Winnebago; its display rivalling Jayco’s in both floor space and number of models.

Winnebago sales staff said the most popular model at the show was the $173,100 Esperance, based on an Iveco 3.0-litre chassis. This versatile motorhome has a slide-out side lounge with four seatbelts standard, and even has a wheelchair option.

Meanwhile, Gold Coast-based Paradise Motorhomes showed off its new Integrity Lite Supreme. Priced at $209,617, it’s based on the Iveco Daily 3.0-litre 50C chassis and features a slide-out side queen bed with rear ensuite.

Sunliner also introduced its Ford Ranger-based campervan, which represents the Melbourne manufacturer’s first foray into the ute-based, off-road camper market.

Held over an exhausting nine days at Rosehill Racecourse from April 21-29, the NSW Caravan, Camping, RV & Holiday Supershow this year attracted more than 400 exhibitors and 76,741 people through the gates -- 3281 less visitors than last year.