Swift is the most popular brand of tourer on the market, and the Challenger, originally launched for 1985, is among the top sellers in its long history.
Challengers have appeared in a variety of guises over the years and have become well known as stylish, generously equipped caravans.
Always a popular choice for customers buying new, they remain strong buys in the used sector, too. Quality build and a good choice of caravan layouts mean that Challengers will always find a buyer, and there are plenty to browse on the forecourts or for private sale.
The caravan manufacturer also made Challengers as dealer specials, which were a popular choice for those wanting extra kit and luxury fittings.
The more basic Sports were a perfectly good line-up, but the SE offered extra spec, including Alde heating and an alarm. So how does the 2014 model that we went to see bear up? Is it among the best used caravans?
Model history of the Challenger
The 2014 Challenger offered two levels of spec: SE and Sport. The SE badge has been used since the 1990s to denote an upgraded model.
The 480 varient we look at here has been around since 1992, and is a 2 berth caravan with an end-washroom layout that has proved a hugely popular choice for couples.
Over the years, the 480 has been refreshed and updated and for 2014, it was aimed at the upper mid-market sector.
Swift’s SMART construction replaced all of the wood in the bodywork with water-repellent polyurethane material.
The SE’s great spec included barbecue and exterior mains points, a 40W solar panel, ATC, alloys, a sunroof, Status TV aerial, an alarm, microwave, a full oven, a dual-fuel hob, Alde heating and an AKS hitch stabiliser. But weights were kept realistic, adding to its appeal.
The Challengers had nine layouts, five being twin-axle models; these included the new 640 four-berth model.
The 480 SE was a very good seller new, and used examples remain hugely popular on the pre-owned forecourt.
Price checker
The 480 SE that we viewed was well priced, and it came with a new awning. You are looking at £13,995-£14,595 from dealers, and private sales around £13,295. For the rest of the range, expect to pay:
- 530 £14,995-£15,495
- 565 £15,195-£15,995
- 570 £15,295-£16,295
- 580 £15,895-£16,485
- 625 £16,295-£16,995
- 630 £16,595-£16,995
- 640 £16,795-£16,995
- 645 £17,195-£17,495
What to check for in a used 2014 Swift Challenger 480 SE
When you’re buying a used caravan, you should always keep your eyes peeled. In the case of the 2014 480 SE, we’d recommend looking out for:
- Cracking in back panel by roof
- Fading in front panel
- Rippling (usually from damp) in interior wall at rear
- Loss of support in mattresses
- Rusting on the hob
- Signs of damp near sunroof in the front lounge
- Scuffed tyres/alloys
- Scratched kitchen sink
Alternative models
Look at other caravans such as the 2018 Bailey Unicorn Seville Series 4, a two-berth tourer with a great spec, although keep your eyes peeled for damp.
Another model to consider is the 2010 Elddis Xplore 302, a lightweight and comfortable option that is a great choice for first-timers (in which case our caravanning for beginners guide is full of useful tips to help).
Verdict
The 2014 Challenger SE offers a superb choice of 10 layouts, catering for all caravanners. This Swift Challenger 480 SE was immaculate and at a bargain price, having had just one owner from new.
With great storage, excellent spec, a generous washroom and a spacious front lounge, the Challenger SE is still well worth taking a look at – you can also take a look at our review of the 2023 Swift Challenger 480 SE to get an idea of what newer models come with.
Technical spec of the 2014 Swift Challenger 480 SE
- Berths: 2
- MTPLM: 1267kg
- MiRO: 1167kg
- Payload: 100kg
- Internal length: 4.39m
- Width: 2.24m
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