Used van buyer Sterling Eccles Sport SR 442 (2013)
Stylish and spacious, this is an excellent choice for two on tour, says Andrew Jenkinson
ECCLES IS THE oldest name in the caravan world. In effect, it began the modern touring era, way back in 1919. That venerable history made its disappearance in 2020 even more of a shame.
In 2013, though, it was still going strong. Then, the layouts in the Eccles echoed those of the Swift Challenger Sport.
The difference was that the Eccles offered a more modern interior, which could make the Challenger feel a bit dated. In addition, by then, extras such as ATC were also being included in the Eccles Sport as standard fittings.
That season’s line-up saw no fewer than 10 layouts, although this would be cut to five the following year – the number of models available had confused buyers and dealers alike.
A new profile arrived in 2012, providing a fresh look for the exterior, and the new SMART construction offered better body quality by getting rid of most of the wood in the build.
Model history
The 442 was launched in 2012 as a lightweight, well-equipped, stylish tourer for two, and was produced until 2015, when it was replaced by the 480.
For 2013, a sunroof was added as standard, joining ATC, Truma heating, a microwave, dual-fuel hob, LEDS, a great washroom and a Status TV aerial. Alloys plus a spare were included, as well as an AKS hitch stabiliser.
The layout of the 442 was conventional, with twin settees
at the front, a side kitchen, and a dresser on the nearside.
The end washroom boasted a good shower and Thetford electric-flush toilet.
The Eccles also had a roomy front gas locker, while all of the service points were placed on the offside. The lounge had a Cd/radio, with a separate aerial for better radio reception.
The better-equipped Sport SR offered buyers more than the 2012 line-up. It also became popular for dealer specials, so it’s worth looking out for these.
Alternative models
Look at the Coachman Amara 450/2, a cracking tourer with a good spec and an excellent washroom, for around £13,000.
Alternatively, you could check out the Lunar Quasar 462, an appealing lightweight tourer with equally good spec and prices from around £11,995.
Neither of these is quite as stylish as the Sport SR, but they make reasonable alternatives.
Price checker
The 442 sells quickly, but we found prices from £12,495 to £13,000 for a 2013 model. Check prices and consider how far you are prepared to travel to bag yourself a bargain!
The model we reviewed also had an awning thrown in – it’s always worthwhile browsing for valuable extras such as that.
For other models in the range, you can expect to pay: n 442 £12,399-£13,000 n 514 £13,195-£13,995 n 524 £13,195-£13,995 n 544 £13,395-£13,995 n 564 £13,995-£14,295 n 584 £13,995-£14,295 n 585 £13,995-£14,495 n 586 £14,595-£15,195 n 636 £14,595-£15,295
Verdict
The Sport SR had a lot going for it, especially if you can track down a dealer special.
It’s still a very stylish choice.
There seem few problems, but as usual, check for damp and bear in mind that some buyers have reported charger units failing. These tourers sell quickly, particularly with the current shortages in supply.