Xplore 546, 2009

Price new: £10,995

This caravan is a: six-berth with fixed bunks and a side dinette

The Explorer Group has launched its attack on the budget tourer market with the lightweight and well-specified Xplore range, set to rival the Bailey, Sprite and Lunar equivalents. The new 546 is a six-berth that’ll really appeal to a growing family. It’s competitively priced and lightweight, with a stylish interior that makes a refreshing change to what’s currently available on the market.
The exterior is smart but simple, with modern graphics and stainless steel grab handles. The sturdy and classy appearance gives off an expensive air.
The smooth side panels and quality moulded GRP front end are first class and all neatly put together. There’s good access to the front locker, made possible with a decent-sized lid so you won’t need to strain yourself getting items in and out. The battery locker is on the nearside along with the access point for the mains lead.
If I had one reservation on the exterior styling it would be the unfinished look of the rear panel; a one-piece panel would have improved the look no end.
It would have been easy for the Explorer Group to have fitted cheaply finished furniture and less substantial seating in this budget tourer, but no, the design actually has an up-market appeal.

Caravan layout

Click here to download test: Which Caravan, July 2008

Our verdict

The Xplore has a huge task ahead of it – to get established in an area where the Ranger, Sprite and Dart reign supreme. The good news is that it has a very good chance of succeeding. It offers super value for money, with all the bits you expect and need attached. The finish and general feeling of quality gives it the edge on the Ranger; its light weight gives it the edge on the Sprite; and its equipment level gives it the edge on the Dart. Give the Xplore a chance and you might find you get more than you bargained for.

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