Venus was one of the most popular entry-level ranges in the UK, beaten only by Sprite. Venus was launched at the Excel Caravan Show in 2012.
The range didn’t quite hit its target until its profile was revamped along with its interior for 2015. Over the years, Lunar had produced various entry-level ranges, but Venus was by far the most successful.
Build quality and damp were problems in some early Venus models. A bigger spec pack was introduced and the 2015 range was much improved.
Smarter interiors and exteriors gave the Venus extra kudos and demand rose. The Venus range also included some novel family layouts and value for money options, which can be good news for those after one of the best used caravans.
Model history
Venus was launched as a lightweight, well-equipped, entry-level range of tourers in 2012. It had just a few caravan layouts, but after its 2015 makeover Venus became a best seller for parent company Lunar.
With two six-berths and an end-washroom two-berth, plus three fixed-bed four-berths, the Venus range appealed to many potential owners after different types of caravans.
The 570 we look at here was launched for the 2016 season using the transverse-fixed-bed and rear-washroom configuration. This model was carried through until the demise of parent company Lunar in 2019.
In 2017, its second year, the 570 model was one of the Venus range’s best sellers. It had received new graphics, revised soft furnishings and easy-action slide-out bases for making the double bed in the lounge. Spec included a fridge, shower, TV aerial and Truma heater.
There’s a Venus caravan owner’s club which can help with any questions, and there’s a decent supply on the forecourts, so finding one should not be a problem. They do sell fast, so you’ll need to be quick off the mark if you find a nice one.
Price checker
We found a 570 priced at £12,990, but also one at £13,495. If you go private you could pick one up for around £11,495. Look for any added extras, but also keep an eye out for dealer specials – some were built with extra kit included.
- 460/2: £9495-£9995
- 540/4: £11,495-£11,995
- 550/4: £12,495-£12,995
- 590/6: £13,995-£14,595
- 620/6: £13,995-£14,995
What to check for
- Dents in side panels
- Door-fit in front gas locker
- Cracks in rear panels
- Spongy feel in floors
- Damp in back panel
- Discoloured wall board
- Front window catches – they can come undone on tow
- Damage to tyres/alloys
Verdict
The Venus is an excellent range of tourers, but you need to check for damp, especially in older models. The 570 is great for two, is light and easy to tow.
The interior doesn’t feel down-market for its age and price, and it’s well equipped. You don’t need a big tow car, either, and our 570/4 was in excellent condition, with the exterior looking good.
A carefully chosen Venus would make an ideal first tourer or an affordable upgrade from an older caravan.
Alternatives to consider
You could take a look at the used Bailey Pegasus Modena 2016 if you’re a couple who are after a tourer with a fixed double bed. It’s thoughtfully designed and comfortable.
Alternatively, how about the 2019 Lunar Clubman SR? The Clubman was a fine range of tourers, as the SR highlights, and the four-berth is generally well-planned.
Technical specification of the 2017 Venus 570
- Berths: 4
- MIRO: 1173kg
- Payload: 187kg
- MTPLM: 1360kg
- Internal length: 5.82m
- Width: 2.21m
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