Lunar has upheld the standards that make its Quasar the go-to range for caravanners in the market for medium-priced vans. Long lists of desirable equipment have characterised these tourers since their launch in 2004, and the company has succeeded in keeping their weights low. 

For caravanners scouring used vans on dealers’ forecourts, the Quasar is worth considering as well. The 2010 Quasar range, for example, included such must-have layouts as the double-dinette found in this 525. This five-berth also boasts an amidships washroom with a separate shower cubicle and a well-equipped kitchen. Yet this 5.5m-long van weighs just 1197kg. 

The seven models take in the two-berth 462 and the twin-axle, six-berth 626. All are fitted with alloy wheels, a spare wheel, a radio/CD player, an external gas point, a microwave and a dual-fuel hob.  

Model history

The Quasars, which replaced Lunar‘s Solar line-up, successfully challenged the Swift Charisma, Bailey Pageant and the Elddis Avanté ranges. Aside from their low weights and attractive specifications, buyers wanted their high-quality finish. The Quasar has evolved over the years without becoming radically different. 

In 2010, the vans got full-height GRP end panels, while the profile kept changing through the years. Shock absorbers were added to improve stability on tow and the entrance door got a larger window.

Inside, the upholstery was improved, a more ergonomic control panel was unveiled and microwaves joined the upgraded list of kitchen appliances. The fridge now offered automatic fuel changeover, while the sink was still a single-piece, stainless-steel unit incorporating the drainer.  

The 525’s rear dinette can be partitioned off to create a separate children’s zone. At night, the parallel seats are converted into a double bed and a bunk folded out above it. 

Because it was a much-loved floorplan, there are plenty of used 525s around, plus dealer special versions with even more equipment and aspirational features. 

Lunar Quasar buyer’s checklist

We have some excellent general advice on what to look for when buying used caravans here and other articles about the kinds of caravan interiors you’ll see in older vans and caravan lights. However there are some specific things to look out for when you view a 2010 Lunar Quasar.

First of all, check the rear panel for repaired cracks or a replacement panel, and for pin-prick holes.

Once inside, inspect the floor for signs of delamination. Check the shower cubicle for dried-out sealant. Appliances are another thing to check. Is the fridge is in proper working order, and does the microwave work? Finally, check the rear partition for damage.

What to pay

The 2010 Quasar 525 pictured here was priced at £12,995 in 2015, while a private seller was asking £10,995 — the lowest we found. Expect to pay more than £12,000 for examples in good condition with movers and other features fitted. Two-berth 462s cost £10,495 and twin-axle 626s cost around £14,000 if they’re the same vintage. For comparison, the 2014 Quasar 525 was launched at £16,945 and the large six-berth 2015 Lunar Quasar 646 is being sold for £19,399 new.  

Verdict

This Quasar 525 has lost very little value since it was new (at current values in 2015, only about £3500). This is thanks to its extensive kit, varied storage, superb lighting and the other appealing features that were included without a severe weight penalty. Heavy use may take a toll on the seating; otherwise this and the other models are well finished, no-nonsense tourers. 

What you need to know

The 2010 Lunar Quasar 525 shown here has five berths. We viewed it at Salop Leisure in Emstrey, Shrewsbury, Shropshire. Here are some useful figures for it.

  • Price £12,995 
  • Berths 5
  • MiRO 1197kg
  • Payload 198kg
  • MTPLM 1395kg
  • Internal length 5.48m 
  • Overall width 2.16m 

Alternatives

The Bailey Ranger GT60 500/5 would make another good choice. This lightweight, double-dinette van boasts an attractive kit list. It was popular in its day so they will be easy to find on forecourts.  

Another good pre-owned caravan to consider is the Elddis Avanté 505. This is a bit heavier than the Lunar but offers the same specification.