Hard on the outside, soft on the inside. JAMES FIELD runs his eye over Paramount’s luxury off-road tourer.
Paramount Caravans is one of the best-regarded established caravan brands to come out of the “Caravan Belt” to the east of Melbourne.
The Commander is one of nine models in its 2015 line-up. The firm has had major success with very versatile caravan/pop top hybrid Duet range, prompting a move to a new manufacturing facility in Campbellfield to cope with demand.
Like so many successful Aussie manufacturers today, Paramount prides itself on building quality caravans to the individual customer’s requirements, offering an almost countless number of different layouts across the entire range.
Our review model Commander is a good example of that versatility. Brisbane RVs have ordered a range six inches longer than standard. This allows the ensuite to have a solid privacy door and for two external storage lockers behind the shower. Cruisemaster suspension has also been added along with a solar panel, regulator and second battery. All the essentials needed for extended off-road touring. Even with these extras, the Commander comes in under $65,000. Impressive for a caravan with this many features and a high quality finish to boot.
Outside there’s a classy and durable combination of the black checker plate pebble guarding, silver cladding and alloy rims. A galvanised steel lined tunnel boot takes the place of a front boot in this model which allows ample room on the A frame for a toolbox if you want to add it. Not a bad thought considering the ball weight is a little on the light side – a bit of extra weight on the A frame may be the way to go.
Also standard on this model are two jerry can holders mounted next to the gas bottles on the A frame – handy to safely carry extra fuel or water. The van is fully insulated and also comes with a reverse camera.
Inside the layout is similar to most vans of this style. Queen bed up front, kitchen and dinette in the centre and rear ensuite.
The ensuite features a generous sized shower and top loader washing machine – a must in my opinion if you are planning on serious touring.
Other standard inclusions are a 22” TV and antenna, stereo system, roof mounted air conditioning and generous 184 litre three-way fridge. Outside there’s a large awning, two 9kg gas bottles and external outlet for the barbie.
I was impressed by the huge space for storage both inside and out. You can safely put away all of your homely belongings even for the longest of trips.
In terms of value for money, you would be hard pressed to find another product at this price point to rival the Commander for its extensive list of inclusions and features.
Learn more about Paramount Caravans at paramountcaravans.com.au
Link: Read the full review and specs in Issue 13 of Time to Roam.
