Elddis Caravans from the United Kingdom (UK) has three product ranges in its lineup for 2016: Avantè, Affinity and Crusader, with the Avantè being the bestselling entry level and the Affinity and Crusader offering increasing degrees of luxury.
While it is more humble than its siblings, the Avantè, with its understated contemporary style, sets out to provide everything that is needed in a lightweight versatile caravan.
There are seven models in the Avantè range, from the smallest 482/2 berth through to the 636/6 berth. The 574/4 berth is the only permanent twin single bed layout in the range. This layout has become a leading seller in the UK market and is becoming so too in New Zealand. As well as appealing to couples who have different sleeping patterns, those who have used the layout for a while like the flexibility of having two separate seating areas during the daytime.
I liked the interior treatment given to the Avantè range. It is unadorned and, to my eye, more Euro than UK in ambiance. The grey blond timber grain cabinetry blends restfully with the muted cream, coffee and tan tones of the upholstery. It is a solid base for owners to add their own personal touches to.
The Avantè is essentially a comfortable two-person caravan with a twin-settee lounge up front that converts into a double bed for occasional guests. The settees, at 1520mm long, will easily accommodate the grandkids in single format. When in double format, the bed is a very spacious 1520mm wide by 2100mm long.
Like all caravans in the Avantè range, the 574 has the kitchen amidship. Keeping the heavy items – the fridge/freezer, oven and the food and beverage load – above the axle helps balance the caravan and improves its handling characteristics. The kitchen is laid out very efficiently. Placing the underbench three-way fridge beneath the wardrobe unit opposite the stove allows room for a cupboard and a set of four drawers beneath the bench.
At first glance, the bedroom area appears symmetrically austere. Either side of the central walkway is a single bed, a window with three lockers above. But for those who treasure their night-time space, it looks most inviting.
The bathroom is compact, but with sufficient elbow room for all activities. I like the way the mirror has been mounted tall on the wall away from the handbasin’s water splashes and the footstep in the shower so you can clean your feet more easily.
The verdict
The Avantè 574 is a well-thought-out product, well equipped, well built and certainly light of weight. All popular late model two-litre saloons should easily tow its 1401kg GVW. Check with your vehicle agent to be sure before committing. For more informtion, phone 0800 520 055.Pros
- The understated interior décor.
- The twin bed layout.
- The excellent ventilation.
Cons
- Having to lock the front boot to secure it. Just one extra handle in the centre would hold it secure when ‘on-site’.
