The Elddis Avante has found its niche among New Zealand caravanners for a number of key reasons. Among these are the generous twin singles which convert to a comfortable queen or a 6'2" super king if the side squabs are dropped.
That's a lot of bed, and a lot of different options for folks who prefer singles, yet like to sleep together – from time to time. Add to the multiplicity of sleeping configurations; a lightweight, single-axle caravan that is easily towed by a family saloon; and the requirements for the majority of older caravanners have already been ticked.
Delve a little deeper and you'll find some key improvements to the legendary Elddis design. First comes the IDC (intelligent drive control) anti-snaking control, which not only increases stability and comfort, but also includes easy hitch operation.
The new Avante has also increased connectivity for the technically minded, with MP3, CD radio tuner and loads of USB ports. Also new is the 4KW space-saving ducted Whale heating which runs on gas and/or electricity and has a quiet night-time function. It also sports a high capacity Whale water heater with a massive 13-litre capacity. Mike says the high flow pump means the shower pressure is excellent. Certainly the bathroom design with its full-sized shower, corner vanity and mirrored cupboard is aesthetically pleasing.
Cooks will really appreciate the amenities of this well-designed galley, now with a black gloss enamelled dual fuel hob with three spark ignition gas burners, and an 800 watt electric hot plate, plus 800-watt microwave.
Also new to the current Avante is the handsome Aspley walnut craftsman-built cabinetry with good old-fashioned dove tail joints and positive locking kitchen units and lockers. I loved the two-part door with moulded interior liner, window blind, fixed flyscreen and waste bin. The whole door design summarises some smart thinking from Elddis.
It's easy to appreciate the clean, light and fresh interior with granite-look benchtops, sprung upholstery, practical, loose-fit luxurious carpet married with bamboo effect flooring. Overhead, a clear vision skylight with blind and insect screen diffuses natural light. A lot of thought has gone into the interior to get a stylish modern interior.
Extra touches include: double glazing on all windows, helping to achieve the highest grade three thermal insulation; a durable glass top for the hob burner; sensible splash-back; masses of electrical sockets (seven in all); and 100 percent LED lighting throughout.
Outside, the stylish exterior has a stone-chip panel; a fully-bonded roof for additional strength; and the manufacturer offers a 10-year water ingress and body integrity warranty. Mike says this is an industry-leading warranty and his recent visit to the Elddis factory in the UK secured the belief that every year, Elddis proves itself a market leader in terms of its innovations.
"This single-axle caravan has alloy wheel rims and an easily accessible underslung spare wheel. Bought from the RV Leisure Centre, or any of their officially-appointed dealers, it will carry a certificate of self-containment and all relevant New Zealand compliance certificates. It will also have a Winegard satellite dish; 19-inch TV with DVD and Freeview; and a 150-watt solar panel with 10-amp regulator. "All our prices include full on-road registration and warranties," says Mike.
This caravan is ready for the road at $52,995. This Elddis Avante 462 is fabulous value for the money.
Thumbs up
- Favourable first impressions lasting
- Loose fit carpet – genius
Thumbs down
- Always a trade-off – roomy lounge vs making up beds daily
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