Time to Roam Magazine Issue 13 - February/March 2015 | Page 36

| tried + tested camper review motorhome review HORIZON CASUARINA Motorhome Specifications External length: 6363mm External width: 2050mm External height: 2630mm GVM: 4005 Water Fresh water capacity: 150ltr Fuel Fuel capacity: 125ltr Inclusions Gas hot water system, Stainless steel tank with 12-volt ignition, Holding tank for waste water, 55 litres with level indicator, Premium toilet 19 litre cassette, Twin 4 kg gas bottles with change over switch, Electric slide out step Web horizonmotorhomes.com.au 36 timetoroam.com.au Casuarina, both in terms of space available and the quality of cabinetry and latches used. You could not find better. Most impressive are seven large deep drawers in the galley kitchen on ball bearing runners. (I wish I had them at home). The food preparation area is a good size with a glass lid covering the three burner gas stove along with a folding extendable bench space that lifts up in the entrance area of the van, still leaving enough room for someone to pass. Opposite the galley workspace is a Panasonic microwave and 136 litre fridge, both at easily accessible heights. The laminates used on the benchtops give the appearance of stone, but without the weight. They complement the stylish choice of light woodgrain and matt colour finishes used throughout the interior of our test vehicle. All Horizon models are essentially custom built for individual buyers and there are any number of colour and layout combinations to choose from. Spoilt for choice One of the first big choices to make is the sleeping configuration. You can choose a permanent double bed, two single beds or a club lounge layout. We found the permanent single beds with innerspring mattresses comfortable and convenient. A removable swivel table in between the two beds made for a good dining option when eating outside isn’t one of them. You can still enjoy the view from the panoramic windows. The 19 inch high definition TV and DVD player above the kitchen sink is well located for catching up with news at dinner time, or relaxing back with a drink in the “reclining chairs” upfront – or lying back and enjoying a DVD in bed later at night. An easy-to-use wind out Winegard digital aerial is standard. If you’re more into relaxing with a good book, there are handy LED reading lights at both ends of each bed as well as above each of the “recliners” up front. Another five LED lights in the ceiling means there are no dark corners. The electrical system is exceptional with 12 volt and 240 volt points throughout (and under the awning) and a few USB points to boot. For the more technically minded, there’s a three stage 40 amp 240 volt battery charger and a Redarc 40 amp three stage charger from the alternator. In short, it’s designed for hassle free long-term off-road camping and easy back-up maintenance when not in use. Air conditioning is an option, however a thermostatically controlled ceiling fan combined with the wide lockable windows gives good ventilation in all but extreme weather. Conclusion Combining the more powerful three litre revised Fiat Ducato with a slightly extended version of Horizon’s bestseller has created a spacious motorhome of great proportions that is easy to drive and park. The end result is a stylish good value package that’s sure to appeal to those seeking “La Dolce Vita” in an Australian-built motorhome.