Keep an eye on the Leader
JAMES FIELD takes a look at new caravan brand Leader to see how it measures up to the name.
Leader Caravans is a relatively new marque in the Australian caravan market. It’s a venture launched by the company behind Supreme Caravans, a firm with a good track record of manufacturing quality caravans locally for over 20 years.
To keep things simple, the Leader Caravan range boasts nine popular set layouts which the company says has been carefully selected after extensive research.
The Leader 17ft CES Gold Series is the only single axle model in the Leader range, with other models reaching up to 24ft in length. Unlike many other single axle caravans, the 17ft CES Gold Series includes all of the features you would usually expect to see in a larger tandem axle. The layout is simple yet effective, and seems surprisingly roomy on entering through the middle-set entry door.
The biggest selling point of the Leader 17ft CES Gold Series is without a doubt the large full ensuite. Simply slide across the sleek aluminium framed smoked Perspex privacy doorand you havea fully self-contained bathroom complete with china bowl toilet, wash basin and generously sized shower cubicle.
One detail that really catches the eye is the stylish glass shower door which adds a real touch of class to an already well-appointed ensuite. The fact the glass is completely transparent gives the area a real sense of openness.
The kitchen also stands out. There’s a large Thetford 180L – two door refrigerator. There’s also plenty of cupboard, drawer and bench space available in the kitchen for the budding Masterchef, with a good-size dedicated saucepan drawer.
Directly across from the kitchen bench, the dinette’s tri-fold table features rounded corners, a simple yet functional aspect, often overlooked by many other manufacturers. The plywood cabinetry is well constructed and finished; although the peg catches look a bit lightweight and may need replacing over time.
Taking on the name Leader is a big call in a highly competitive market where you’re up against not only Australia’s best, but leading brands from around the world.
The Leader 17ft CES Gold Series doesn’t disappoint, with a good range of standard inclusions coupled with Leader’s attention to detail and usability showcased throughout this well designed caravan.
It is certainly well finished than most vans and offers good value for money.
Read the full review in the April/May 2014 issue of Time to Roam
