GORV - Digital Magazine Issue #39 | Page 22

The bed base lifts on gas struts to reveal a large storage space, but I did wonder if the bare meranti timber framing would be better finished with some laminate. With post-formed benchtops and a decent amount of bench space, the kitchen in this van is a winner. It includes a cooktop and griller with a drawer and floor-level cupboard beneath as standard, rather than an oven, which I actually prefer. While hatch doors are fitted, the better bet to access the storage space below each dinette seat is to remove the cushions and lift the ply bases. Again, like the bed base, could these be laminated for a better overall finish? A large fridge is positioned between the dinette and bathroom, with a microwave recessed into the furniture above. Kokoda hasn’t fitted a locker above the microwave, even though there is potentially room for a small one. This is just an observation, rather than a criticism, as there is plenty of storage space elsewhere. Along with the kitchen, the rear ensuite is a highlight. I particularly appreciated the large linen cupboard next to the toilet. It is easy to access and comes with multiple shelves. Kokoda has also included a top-loading washing machine hidden beneath a hinged benchtop, and a fully-moulded fibreglass shower. With double-glazed windows, a reverse-cycle air-conditioner, LED lights and a genuine sense of space, the interior of the Aussie Spirit is classy and highly liveable – I think travelling couples would be very comfortable in this rig. TRADITIONAL VALUES The Kokoda Aussie Spirit is, as mentioned, built in a traditional way: a meranti timber frame, ply floor, ribbed aluminium cladding, all on an Australian-made RHS chassis comprised of a 6in drawbar that runs back to the suspension mounts and 6in main chassis rails.