Full review
FROM the outside you’d have no idea of the Europa's entry-level credentials.
Its simple, clean graphics are a pleasant change from some of the convoluted, spangly effects seen on other models.
The high-gloss aluminium side walls, tinted windows and ‘Corvette-style’ (my words, not Swift’s) light clusters give it all the class it needs.
The interior follows the clean-cut theme.
What adds to the overall sense of luxury is the nearside fixed bed layout. It makes an already large caravan seem even bigger. And it’s not just an illusion. This year’s vans are wider, with the 620 now just under the legal limit, at 2.29m.
In the seating area the extra width is clearly evident. The biggest benefits are that it makes it easier to squeeze in and out of your seat, at meal times, and easier to access the underseat lockers. Their fully-opening front panels are also a boon for this.
Plush, moulded cushions also make the front dinette a welcoming area. However, the downside is that rounded cushions are harder to make up into a flat mattress.
The reality is that this caravan is most likely to be used by couples, with occasional guests, so a comfy seating area is a higher priority.
Taking this into account, it is a pleasant place to spend an evening.
Small preparation area
In the kitchen, there is no extra work surface when the drainer is in place so you have to be pretty organised with your cooking and washing-up.
A caravan of this size should have a larger preparation area. The hob is the ever-popular four-ring, dual fuel variety - which is great if you run out of gas.
There is also a grill and oven, but limited pan storage underneath.
The bed area is a lovely combination of being light and airy whilst not feeling like a goldfish bowl; you can happily lie in bed and look at the view.
And, best of all, there are shelves on both sides for a teacup. Overhead are several large lockers, while across the galley is a full-length wardrobe, with two internal shelves and space for shoes underneath.
Other practical touches include the swivel spotlights over the bed-head and the cut-out window which enables you to look through to the TV in the living area.
A Venetian blind can be lowered over this, for extra privacy.
There is also a fantastic storage area under the bed. The whole mattress lifts up on a gas-assisted strut, so your back is saved, and you can also access this area from the outside.
It’s ideal for bulky, lightweight items such as bedding or sports equipment.
Having an en suite is not so unusual in a caravan but it’s nice to have one that is a decent size.
This washroom goes the full width of the ‘van which leaves plenty of room for the loo, sink and various cupboards.
The only thing that is a little disappointing is the shower cubicle. Although the rectangular cubicle looks promising, it is very narrow.
The rest of the washroom is well-organised.
Overall, each area of this ‘van is straightforward, spacious and well thought out. Only the kitchen is a little disappointing given the caravan’s impressive dimensions.
Our verdict:
There are very few things to complain about. Any criticism of flimsy furniture (the coffee table and plastic drawers) has to be balanced with Swift’s consideration of cost and weight.
The overall impression however, both inside and out, is of a well-made caravan with little skimping on comfort.
|
E
|
• A full version of this review appeared in the April 2007 issue of Which Caravan. To order a road test reprint contact Tina Beaumont on 01778 391187.
To subscribe to the magazine, click here.Content continues after advertisements