Small is big, at least at this year’s Victorian Caravan Supershow, where three well-known names in the Australian caravan industry -- Jayco, Roma and Roadstar – unveiled new ‘mini’ caravans, all priced around the $20,000-25,000 mark. In the case of Melbourne’s Roadstar, it’s the final production version of the smartly finished Colt, a teardrop camper-sized, two-berth model that first broke cover in prototype form in August last year. However, Roadstar Caravans’ boss Ken Nizam was quick to point out that the Colt was no ‘cheap-and-cheerful’ model, sharing many of the features of Roadstar’s ‘big’ caravan range, including the latest fibreglass sandwich panel construction using high-strength European-sourced MS22 sealant and clean exterior and interior styling, right down to handle-less cabinetry and ‘hidden’ internal wiring.
Nizam couldn’t provide exact measurements of the new camper, which was rushed to the show on the second day, but said there was enough room for a couple of 6ft 2in adults to stretch out on the coil spring mattress occupying almost the entire interior space. The Tare weight was listed at 590kg, with an ATM of 890kg and ball weight of 90kg.
There are security entrance doors on both sides, with a wall of interior cabinets at one end of the bed that also hides the Fusion stereo, 12V sockets and speakers. The front ‘toolbox’ is accessed internally, while there are some more storage and shelving options in the built-in rear kitchen accessible under the lift-up lid.
Other standard features on the Colt include a three burner gas cooktop and sink, 28 litre fridge, 95 litre water tank, 12V pump, 100Ah battery and battery management system, 135W roof-top solar panels, LED lighting, two 4.5kg gas bottles, on-road suspension with leaf springs and shock absorbers, Anderson plug, electric brakes, spare wheel and a Supagal steel chassis.
The production Colt misses out on the internal TV fitted to the prototype, and also comes with a higher, expected price tag of $24,990. However, the show van did come fitted with roof racks and ‘foxwing’ awning, which are normally a $1250 option.
“Even though the price is fairly good this is not a cheap, entry-level model,” Nizam said. “It’s a mini caravan for some-one who wants to tow behind a small car.”
Roadstar is considering offering a number of other options for the Colt, including an external picnic table and outside shower.