Full review

The Crusader Zephyr has a rear bedroom, a central shower and washing facility and a long parallel lounge.

It’s a layout that has, over the past few years, achieved proven status; every manufacturer offers at least one and some several, in varying lengths and levels of spec.

The Zephyr enjoys a place in the top echelon of specification and space, riding on twin axles and with an overall length just short of eight metres. Yet, at 1,800 kg, it’s not in the top-weight category; compare it with the same manufacturer’s Buccaneer Commodore, for example, which has an MTPLM figure of 1,957 kg, putting that model firmly in hefty-tow vehicle territory.

The functionality and versatility of the Zephyr’s layout hinges on its central area, which can be closed off from both the bedroom and the living area.

This creates a true en-suite to the bedroom and equally makes it suitable for family use, because the wash area can be accessed from both the front and rear ends of the caravan. The bed retracts by 40 cm to create increased floor space during the daytime.

Crusaders are designed for caravanning connoisseurs, with a high level of spec plus cabinetry with craftsmanship appeal. These models turn heads, thanks to the Champagne-shade sides which glisten in the sunshine and mark this range out as different from everything else.

Inside, the huge ’Stargazer’ roof light over the lounge lets natural light flood into the caravan, making it light and bright even on a dull day.

There’s a 40-litre water tank, an Aquasource connector to enable you to take water directly from a tap on a pitch, a barbecue point and an external mains socket.

ATC, Al-Ko’s automatic, electronic stability system is standard — that’s the device that detects the first signs of a swaying motion and corrects it by applying the caravan’s brakes to bring it back into line.

Crusaders come complete with wheel locks. There’s a clothes dryer in the shower cubicle plus a large, ladder-style heated towel rail (part of the Alde system).

The heating system is Alde, complete with the Alde Load Monitor which automatically turns off the heating when you switch on an appliance like the microwave, so that you don’t inadvertently trip out your pitch’s electricity supply.

Verdict

With a long lounge capable of being used as single beds or a massive double (1.43 m wide by 2 m) and a luxurious rear room, the Zephyr ticks flexibility boxes amply.

Spec including Alde heating, makes the Zephyr ideal for use at any time of the year, and many refinements add up to a great package of luxury; this is a seriously good caravan for serious caravanners.