Full review

FOR 2009, the Europa range gets a makeover outside as well as inside and the results are pretty effective. The new-design rear panel is both stylish and well constructed.

The front end also gets a new moulded panel, with triple window arrangement. New side graphics and new smart alloy wheels complete the look.

The one-piece side panels still look the business and the general overall build is simply well executed with trim and fit rivalling German built models. The Europa fixed-bed models are all 2.23m wide (compared with the increasingly common 2.29m) – which is useful if your garden-storage space is restricted.

Even though the hitch-height of the Seat had the Europa riding a bit high, giving a very slight nose-up configuration, the caravan behaved excellently through some lovely East Yorkshire countryside on what was a glorious day, with sneaky side winds.

The Europa followed true to the car without any signs of instability, no doubt helped by the AKS3004 stabiliser. We like the fact that Swift offers the new Al-Ko ATC stability device as an option (it will cost £399).

The Europa 470 is, on paper, a four-berth but, as with many fixed-bed models of its size, is going to appeal most to couples seeking the convenience of fixed bed and permanent lounge-diner. Although the front end makes into a bed, the layout really would be a tad tight for four.

The improved exterior of the Europa is mirrored inside; the design team at Swift has been doing some tweaking and our first impressions are that they have done a great job.

The finish is well executed with excellent built and quality fittings. And the Europa comes with such niceties as a clock, a radio/CD/MP3 player, a Sharp microwave, a 108–litre Thetford fridge with a digital read-out and a mini-Heki roof vent over the kitchen. Cooking arrangements are oven, grill, three gas burners and one electric hotplate.

Lighting is great in the front dinette area and rear bedroom – there are enough spotlights but the kitchen would have benefited from having two spotlights because the strip-light is set too far towards one side.

Worktop space isn’t large but the side can be extended where the double bed is located, adding extra surface space when needed.

The front living area has six roof lockers and neat, flush-fitting mains lighting in the corners. A small fold-up table (a little too small) is centrally placed between the seats. Comfort is great – the upholstery is of a good depth and also of a smart, modern design. Cushions add to the comfort and we reckon four would sit comfortably in the 470’s lounge.

Only one-blown air outlet is fitted at the front end, but with the Europa you now get two TV points, which is a nice touch on a tourer of this price.

Beside the fixed bed are two useful small side shelves and the bedroom has two spotlights plus a position for the TV, so you can watch it from the bed. Swift has added an extending arm for a flat screen TV.

The corner washroom has an electric-flush Thetford cassette toilet, and the shower has doors to separate it from the loo. 

Verdict:

The Europa range has seen some excellent improvements. The 470 offers good build and we like the modern ambience created in the Europa.

The Europa 470 has a decent amount of storage and living space. It tows well and its style is eye catching.

When you look at the price, the Europa is pretty good value and it’s set to win many fans among caravanners seeking a fixed bed in a relatively compact caravan.
Europa’s competitors are going to have to watch out – the Europa 470 is a class leader.

Specification:

Price: £12,355
Berths: 4
Length: 4.74 m (15ft 7in)
Overall length: 6.42 m (21ft 1in)
Width: 2.29 m (7ft 4 in)
Overall height: 2.70 m (8ft 10in)
MIRO: 1118 kg (22.2cwt)
MTPLM: 1295 kg (26.2cwt)
Bed Sizes: Front double dinette: 2.08 m x 1.8m (6ft 10in x 4ft 5in) side fixed bed: 1.88 m x 1.37 m (6ft 2 in x 4ft 9in)

•    A full version of this review appeared in the December 2008  issue of Which Caravan, the only magazine all about buying. To subscribe to the magazine, click here.