IF YOU’VE BEEN yearning for an affordable, basic level caravan that you can tow behind an ordinary car, your prayers may just have been answered.

 

Responding to demand from its dealers, Swift Group has launched a new range of Sprite models which it sees as the perfect step up for the tent owner aspiring to something a little more comfortable.

 

Sprite Lite details

Sprite Lite is a three model range at launch, consisting of a three, four and five berth models. The two berth is a classic end-washroom model, the four-berth is a offside fixed bed model while the five berth has a nearside rear dinette and offside washroom like the Sprite Musketeer TD.

The big selling points for the range and undoubtedly price and weight. The range starts at a whisker under £10k but all three have maximum weights under 1100kg, meaning this is a range that is in reach of a range of small family hatchbacks.

In order to achieve these weight savings however, sacrifices have been made. The specification list omits some items which have become standard for UK caravanners. For example, there is no oven, no microwave and no blown-air heating. In fact, the space-heating system is gas only.

 

Elsewhere, a major change is the removal of the shower unit altogether. This isn’t a caravan for soap swervers however. It is a caravan for people who are three season tourers.

 

 

Value added

So it sounds like a lot has been taken away from the Sprite Lite but that weight-reduction surgery has not included the warranty. As with all 2012 Swift Group tourers, the Sprite Lite range has a 10-year body warranty which is a major selling point on a range that owners will likely hold on to as long as it suits their needs.

 

Plainly not for eveyone, Sprite Lite positions itself below the rest of the market as the starting point for any tent camper looking for more comfort, or someone looking for new caravans at used money.

 

Quick facts

•    All-new range starting at under £10k
•    Weights start at 1030kg
•    Three models at launch
•    Two ‘couples’ models
•    One five-berth family layout
•    Suitable match for most small family hatches