The big stat for Bailey Caravans’ top-tier Rangefinder Nebula risks being lost in the detail, but in addition to its superior build quality and bight and breezy interior atmos, this 8.5m-long four-berth ‘van also boasts an impressive half-tonne payload ability.
Having such a load-lugger wrapped in all the top-shelf accoutrements of a premium caravan is a heck of a bonus. And despite this, says Bailey Caravans’ Auckland distributor TrailLite, the Rangefinder Nebula is half a tonne lighter than some equivalent models from rival manufacturers.
Packed to the rafters
It’s an easily-overlooked aspect of the caravan decision-making process; a ‘van as seen at the yard versus a ‘van with pots, pans, plates, food, wine, bedding, camp chairs and all the hobby-fodder that makes for a great break are very different things indeed, especially on the scales (or the towball, as the case may be).
Show pony
Even more than that, our test example is a bit of a show pony; fitted with almost every accessory available. Additional features such as Shann leather upholstery, a full oven (rather than the standard mini grille), an additional AGM battery, uprated water tank and a few other options box ticks takes its retail sticker up around $10k from a start price of $79,990.
There are plenty of great standard options on offer in every Rangefinder Nebula though, including a large shower and ceramic toilet in the generously proportioned bathroom, a queen-sized island bed which can be sectioned off from the living space, a 185-litre fridge/ freezer, on-board washing machine, twin water tanks, double-glazed windows and skylights, an awning, picnic table, plenty of flush-fit cabinetry with loads of storage options and a whole host more.
Out there
Now it might have escaped attention, but we photographed the Rangefinder Nebula down at the beach. Not alongside, but actually right down there on the sand.
The Rangefinder Nebula’s high ride height makes getting off the tarmac simple; again, paired with an appropriate 4x4 tow vehicle, the flexibility to holiday further off the beaten track – at DoC sites, for example – is there to be considered.
Conclusion
It’s not called the Rangefinder for nothing. This premium quality headline act from Bailey Caravans will let you go further and take more of the essentials along for the ride. It’s a high quality affair inside and out, but not at a price point that’ll leave you without the ability to add a few optional extras, or change the interior look to suit, if you wish.
Specifications
- Berths: 4
- Axles: 2
- Overall width: 2490mm
- Overall external Height: 2880mm
- Overall external body length: 8500mm
- Max fresh water capacity: 210-litres
- Approx. gross vehicle mass: 2500kg
- Price (as reviewed): $88,130
Pros
- Interior space
- Quality cabinetry, trim, fixtures and fittings
- Ride height an advantage for those more adventurous destinations
Cons
- You’ll need a tow vehicle with the ability to match
Read the full review in the latest issue (#147) of Motorhomes Caravans & Destinations.
