First look: Ezytrail Ceduna 17 MK3 Quad

Ezytrail started off importing budget camper trailers, before moving into hybrids and more recently, adding a variety of on-road and off-road full height and pop-top caravans to the line-up.

Introduced recently, the single-axle Ceduna 17 MK3 Quad hardtop model is part of Ezytrail's six-strong off-road caravan range and is aimed at families after a blend of off-road adventure and comfort features, in a relatively affordable and user-friendly package.

This feature-packed 17ft caravan is designed to handle rugged terrain while providing up to four family members a mix of inside and outside amenities, and comes equipped with a queen-sized bed, twin bunks and an internal bathroom.

The fixed-walls layout is practical, as it eliminates the need for pop-outs or extensions, which often complicate set-up and can be vulnerable to weather elements. The queen-sized bed offers parents a relatively private sleeping area up front, while the internal bunks at the rear provide a cozy spot for the kids.

Ezytrail says the mesh screening around the bunks is designed to enhance ventilation and offer insect protection; however, the notable air gap on the top bunk dispels this theory.

In terms of functionality and convenience, the Ceduna 17 MK3 Quad boasts a significant payload, advertised at just over 600kg. This should be enough for most families to pack their essential gear, groceries, and outdoor adventure equipment without worrying about overloading.

Nuts and bolts wise, the Ceduna 17 MK3 rides on an Ezyrider independent suspension with Pedders shockers. The standard tow hitch is a 3.5-tonne AL-KO off-road ball hitch; however, a DO-35 upgrade is available for $600. There are twin 120-litre water tanks and an 80-litre grey water tank fitted as standard.

Ezytrail also enhances outdoor living with the inclusion of a fully enclosed annexe, which securely attaches to an electric awning and extends the living space beyond the caravan’s interior. This versatile outdoor space is fully protected from the elements and can be used for cooking, dining, or simply relaxing.

The electric awning allows for easy deployment, and there's a manual override for the electric awning and step should a power failure occur.

There's also a handy external pantry, enhanced by a sleek external kitchen that slides out parallel to the caravan’s body, affording more usable space under the awning. The parallel kitchen feature allows easy access for outdoor meal preparation and shields users from the elements.

While inside, a two-burner stove and spacious fridge simplifies internal cooking when the weather isn't favourable. There's also a rear-mounted gas bayonet that allows a BBQ connection close to the external kitchen area.

The Ceduna 17 MK3 Quad boasts a decent power management system for off-grid camping. Central to the system is the Renogy/Ezytrail complete RV management system which combines several high-quality components for optimal energy distribution and user-friendly control, including two 120Ah lithium batteries, 400W rooftop solar and a 2000W inverter.

At the heart of the system is the Renogy PMS 1280 smart distribution box, which acts as the central hub for managing the RV’s electrical distribution. It allows for streamlined operation of essential RV functions such as lighting, refrigeration, water pumps, and entertainment systems, while also managing the battery system and solar inputs.

There's also a Renogy Vision touchscreen interface that allows campers to monitor battery levels, power consumption, solar input, and the status of connected devices in real time.

Another highlight is a fridge slide that incorporates a specialised cable carrier track which prevents power cables from getting caught or tangled as the fridge slide retracts, and helps reduce wear and tear on the electrical components.

Another thoughtful feature is the switch-operated exhaust fan installed within the tunnel. This fan actively removes heat, ensuring that the fridge and other stored items remain cool, particularly in warmer climates.

For those seeking even more comfort on their adventures, the optional Comfort Pack includes off-grid air-conditioning for those sweltering summer days, a diesel heater for chilly nights, plus a reversing camera and a 24-inch Smart TV.

Also aimed at serious off-grid campers is the larger solar and battery package with the hard-wired AC and diesel heater option. The Comfort Pack adds $6000 to the purchase price.

The Ceduna 17 MK3 Quad also comes standard with an external shower box that makes cleaning up after a beach trip a breeze.

The Ceduna 17 MK3 Quad is not perfect, of course, and its queen-size French bed (a bed that's hard up against one wall) is harder to make-up than an island bed layout. The internal position of the TV over the sink also clutters up the kitchen prep area.

The mesh screen on the top bunk only covers the side entrance, while the forward end is exposed without any mesh. Access to the front gas bayonet is awkward.

You'll also pay extra for the optional stability control system from Tuson RV Brakes USA, and it's worth noting that this system is incompatible with some Ford Ranger and Everest vehicles.

Ultimately, the Ezytrail Ceduna 17 MK3 Quad bunk van is designed with adventurous families in mind. It blends solid off-road capabilities with user-friendly interior design features, together with outside cooking facilities and an enclosed annexe for longer stays.

Price: From $79,900 (plus on-road costs)
Travel length: 7500mm
External body width: 2400mm
Travel height: 3100mm
Tare weight: 2395kg
ATM: 3000kg
Ball weight (Tare): 210kg
Body:  Aluminium RHS frame with composite panel cladding and black aluminium checker plate and 40mm PET floor
Chassis: Galvanised F5 steel 
Suspension: Ezyrider independent coil spring with Pedders shocks
Coupling: AL-KO off-road ball
Brakes: 12in electric drums
Electronic stability control: Optional
Wheels: 16in alloy with Klever M/T 265/75 R16 all-terrain tyres
Water: 2 x 120L (fresh), 1 x 80L (grey)
Battery: 2 x 120Ah lithium
Solar: 400W rooftop panels
Air-conditioner: Truma Aventa roof-mounted reverse-cycle
Gas: 2 x 9kg holders and connector provided
Hot water: Truma Ultrarapid gas /electric
Cooking: Twin-burner gas cooktop, sink (internal and external) 
Fridge: Thetford 150L 12/240V compressor fridge/freezer  
Microwave: MoboRV 240V 20L
Toilet:  Cassette
Shower: Separate cubicle 
Lighting: 12V LED
More info: Ezytrail