Lunar Alaria TI (2018)
The Alaria range has plenty of style and a spec to match, says Andrew Jenkinson
ALARIA WAS A name first used years ago by Lunar, and in 2017, when the manufacturer wanted to launch a luxury line-up, the idea was to keep the new vans separate from the main Lunar brand, rather like Elddis had done with Buccaneer.
So the Alaria was launched, with three models based on the Delta layouts. The new range came with an excellent spec, including a solar panel, self-levelling steadies and mood lighting, plus a smart separate stool with storage, in an L-shaped lounge.
The big difference was very much in the interiors; wow factor came into it as the wood finish found in Lunar vans was replaced by chic grey tones.
The result was a modern interior with instant appeal. They were not cheap, at over £33,000, but the three-model line-up struck a chord with Delta owners who wanted to upgrade, while also attracting other buyers new to the brand.
Model history
The Alaria range was launched for the 2017 season, with the TI being one of the mainstays. Production ended in 2019.
The first Alarias were 7ft 6in wide, but by 2018, they had increased to eight-footers.
The TI offered Alde heating, an alarm, a full oven, fridge and freezer, a microwave and a Dometic extractor fan. The floorplan had a transverse bed, rear washroom, central kitchen and L-shaped front lounge.
The Alaria was fitted with a sunroof, although this was the smaller one that had been used in the 7ft 6in models.
The TI came with excellent kitchen storage and ample work surface, and the lounge lighting was adjustable to act as mood lighting. Typically for Lunar, the rear washroom included a sizeable shower.
Another feature that proved popular with customers was the self-levelling system.
Alternative models
One tourer that should be on your alternative list is the 2018 Coachman VIP 675, offering the same floorplan as the Alaria (transverse bed, rear washroom). Look at £24,995 or more for this one. Another option could be a Buccaneer Bermuda from 2018, with an island-bed, central-washroom configuration. With plenty of kit and self-levelling, this will be priced at around £27,595.
Price checker
Finding a TI isn’t easy: they are popular, particularly if you are looking for a seasonal pitch. A year ago, you could have found one relatively easily, but now, they are a bit scarce.
If you do spot a TI, you’ll be looking at £24,995 to £26,595 (ours was fitted with a twin mover). As usual, remember to check private sales carefully.
For other models in the range, you can expect to pay: n TL £24,499-£25,900 n TS £24,495-£25,995 n TR £25,495-£26,195
Verdict
The Alaria was a lovely tourer, with a spacious and modern interior. The lounge has to be one of the most comfortable L-shaped lounges around.
The spec will please most, with on-board water tanks and a solar panel, and that handy self-levelling system.
As always, check potential buys carefully, particularly for damp. But factor in excellent storage and lighting, and the TI looks very good. That’s in spite of prices having risen recently – we remember £24,000 for a 2019 model not so long ago!