NICE ‘N’ LIGHT

If you’re looking for a caravan that’s big on precision construction but low on sheer weight, Paul Owen found a pair of Sprite Major caravans in Nelson that could be just the job.

The Sprite Major 4EB and 4SB have quickly established themselves as the best sellers of the Swift caravan range for Nelson Caravans. The two Majors are relatively affordable at $67,990 for each of the two interior layouts. They have a spacious ambience that belies their actual size inside thanks to the panoramic front windows that curve upwards into the roofs of both models. And weighing in around 1320kg when unladen, they’re a doddle to tow.

Where the SB offers slightly more floor area thanks to the relatively narrow bathroom positioned at the rear of the van, the EB devotes more of the midvan floor space to a larger facility that appears more opulent. There’s also an extra bathroom cabinet inside the EB, increasing storage, while the right-side toilet sits next to a wheel well locker.

The comparative sizes of the shower cubicles are further reason to opt for the EB, as you get a nice cylindrical unit that offers more elbow room than the smaller rectangular space found in the SB.

The EB’S longer 1.9m x 1.33 bed, located longitudinally at the rear, can be sealed off for extra privacy. The SB’S master sleeping quarters are an east/ west mid-mounted split double mattress of 1.33 that extends to 1.85m in length.

Essentially, the living areas of the two Majors are the same, meaning that both enjoy a wealth of natural light, complemented by four spotlights over the U-shaped seating area and two overhead lights. The squabs and cushions can be combined to create a 2.02m by 1.59 double bed when required. The kitchen area of the Majors is comparable to that of the average motorhome in size, although those downsizing from a larger caravan might find it a little compact. The Majors come with a Thetford stove with a three-burner hob and full oven/grill, 175 watt solar panel, 120AH battery, full gas bottle, power cable, step, and 40L Fiamma fresh and grey rollaways. The 98L Dometic Series 10 fridge comes with a 12L freezer, and there’s a free-standing fold-out table when it’s time to serve up.

The two Major four-berth models major on value, offering exceptional value for money as recognised by their popularity in the UK arguably the toughest caravan market in the world. Find out more at nelsoncaravans.co.nz