Hobby Prestige 540 UL
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Description
The 2010 Hobby Prestige 540 UL from Germany takes on fixed single bed rivals from the rest of Europe
Key Features
Model Year
2010
Product Class
Single Axle
Price from (£)
£16975
Berths
4
Full Review
There’s really no mistaking the latest Hobby caravans out on the road. In a world where the cynic could argue that some caravans tend to look rather like many others, the Hobby’s trademark small single window sunk into the centre of the front panel, allied to simple blue/grey graphics, is distinctive. Not all Hobbys sport that little front window, of course, but those that do signify to those in the know that, where more conventional caravans have their lounge areas in the nose section, Hobbys have a bedroom. Sounds mad? Don’t be too sure...
Starting with the Hobby’s exterior, the curious onlooker is soon left in no doubt that this a beautifully engineered caravan. Witness the robust service locker doors, bank vault-standard entrance door (complete with beefy locks and the king-sized running lights… All of this conspires to suggest that this caravan is built to last.
Climb aboard, and opinions will polarise instantly. The more conservative caravanner might baulk at the sight of the lounge’s rich, red cabinetry, proliferation of arguably slightly fussy-looking roof locker doors finished in a contrasting cream, generous provision of bold lights and extravagantly arched corner seat backrests. The rest of us, on the other hand, will simply nod approvingly, especially when those locker doors are opened to reveal still more solidity, this time in the woodwork and catches.
Seating capacity is great. Up to six can sit reasonably comfortably. The large table (which collapses to form the base of a double bed) does get in the way, as it’s too big and bulky to get its own stowage slot. But at least it’s more than large enough for four place-settings (or six at a push).
The washroom is a bit of a disappointment simply because loo, wash basin and shower are all packaged together in one room.
The kitchen has bold lounge-like contrasting doors that you’ll either love or hate (we love them, for the record). You’ll notice the gentle curve of the locker doors (which open to reveal decent storage behind). The sink is big, the three-burner hob is compact, and there is ample worktop space. The fridge is on the small side and there’s not quite as much low locker space as we would have liked. But you forget these shortcomings when you clock the revolving drinks locker. Sounds like a gimmick. But if you’re in the habit of indulging in a nightcap before turning out the lights, you’ll appreciate being able to reach the single malt without having to get out of bed!
Ah yes, the beds. As we said earlier, these are slotted neatly into the Hobby’s nose section, of a good size and split by a central table. Lighting is generous and the presence of a window behind the headboards doesn’t restrict your ability to sit up in bed and read.
Starting with the Hobby’s exterior, the curious onlooker is soon left in no doubt that this a beautifully engineered caravan. Witness the robust service locker doors, bank vault-standard entrance door (complete with beefy locks and the king-sized running lights… All of this conspires to suggest that this caravan is built to last.
Climb aboard, and opinions will polarise instantly. The more conservative caravanner might baulk at the sight of the lounge’s rich, red cabinetry, proliferation of arguably slightly fussy-looking roof locker doors finished in a contrasting cream, generous provision of bold lights and extravagantly arched corner seat backrests. The rest of us, on the other hand, will simply nod approvingly, especially when those locker doors are opened to reveal still more solidity, this time in the woodwork and catches.
Seating capacity is great. Up to six can sit reasonably comfortably. The large table (which collapses to form the base of a double bed) does get in the way, as it’s too big and bulky to get its own stowage slot. But at least it’s more than large enough for four place-settings (or six at a push).
The washroom is a bit of a disappointment simply because loo, wash basin and shower are all packaged together in one room.
The kitchen has bold lounge-like contrasting doors that you’ll either love or hate (we love them, for the record). You’ll notice the gentle curve of the locker doors (which open to reveal decent storage behind). The sink is big, the three-burner hob is compact, and there is ample worktop space. The fridge is on the small side and there’s not quite as much low locker space as we would have liked. But you forget these shortcomings when you clock the revolving drinks locker. Sounds like a gimmick. But if you’re in the habit of indulging in a nightcap before turning out the lights, you’ll appreciate being able to reach the single malt without having to get out of bed!
Ah yes, the beds. As we said earlier, these are slotted neatly into the Hobby’s nose section, of a good size and split by a central table. Lighting is generous and the presence of a window behind the headboards doesn’t restrict your ability to sit up in bed and read.
Our Verdict
The 2010 Hobby Prestige 540 UL is one of those rare caravans that feels thoroughly engineered, not merely screwed together. It may not be the most stylish caravan ever to roll off a production line, but it’s certainly one of the most solidly built. Not everyone will like the interior décor and the swivel kitchen cabinet is of debatable practical use – but the bedroom is superb and huge windows make the compact lounge feel surprisingly bright and airy
Advantages
Impressive engineering
Brightly-lit lounge
Unusual interior layout
Disadvantages
Unitary washroom
Steel wheels
Enormous table
