On TV we test the Lifestyle 4, Mazda 6 and visit Jersey

We’re back with a brand new TV show, so be sure to check us out on The Caravan Channel. Tune in on Sky 192 and Freesat 402, or watch live online on the Information TV website – and read on to find out what we’ve got in store.

Practical Caravan’s Test Editor Mike Le Caplain kicks things off for us in this episode of our show, with his Swift Lifestyle 4 review. Based on the Sprite Alpine 4, it is a Marquis dealer special and, as such, boasts some enticing kit including alloy wheels and a hitch head stabiliser. This four-berth might have short sofas in the front lounge, but it’s a lovely, well-lit space in which to spend time. There’s also a big and well specced kitchen with ample storage. When it’s time to sleep, the front lounge converts into a good-sized double, plus there’s a fixed French bed at the rear. Tune in to see Mike’s full caravan review.

This is followed by some jargon busting from caravan expert John Wickersham. Ever wondered what a one shot flange nut is? John explains. He’s also talking blade-type stabilisers, regulators and more. It’s great advice for new and experienced caravanners alike.

We then join Practical Caravan’s Bryony Symes as she visits Jersey. Think this isn’t an easy place to take your tourer? Think again. Three campsites on the island are permitted to let touring caravans stay and Bryony explains the rules and regulations that apply when visiting Jersey with your van, as well as exploring the island on horseback! So, if you fancy caravan holidays in Jersey, tune in to The Caravan Channel live online, on Sky 192 and on Freesat 402, and get inspired.

Next, our Tow Car Editor David Motton is reviewing the Mazda 6. What tow car ability does a naturally aspirated 2.0-litre petrol powered saloon like this have? With 163bhp and 155lb ft torque to call on, if you’re prepared to work the engine and gearbox, performance is decent, but this isn’t the most relaxing way to tow. On the flipside, the Mazda 6 is quite an economical car and stability at speed with a caravan hitched on the back was very good. And inside, the newly designed and updated cabin impresses.

Finally, we’re back with John Wickersham for some more expert advice. This time, he’s discussing overheating brakes and the possible causes of this serious problem. John also shows us how to correctly attach the breakaway cable. This really is essential viewing for safe caravanning.

So we hope you’re able to tune into our TV show. The Practical Caravan editorial team works with Information TV to produce these shows and they are broadcast on The Caravan Channel. You can find this channel on Freesat 402 and on Sky 192 – look for Showcase TV. You can also watch live online on the Information TV website. This episode will be shown between Monday 8 June and Sunday 21 June 2015, at these times and on these days: