Introduction
Andy Jenkinson, AKA the Caravan Industry Expert, reviews the 2018 Bailey Unicorn Valencia Series 4 caravan.
The Unicorn by 2018 was in Series 4 mode, with a decent spec the Unicorn proved a popular range. The Valencia, a long running layout, offers a side fixed bed and large end washroom and although sleeps up to four, this will be used as a great couples tourer. Used, they offer a lot of van for that cash too!
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Bailey Unicorn Valencia Specification |
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Berths: |
4 |
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Length: |
5.84 m |
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Width: |
2.29m |
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MIRO: |
1341 kg |
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MTPLM: |
1499 kg |
Spec included; Alde heating, fridge, oven/grill, duel fuel hob, spotlamps, alloys, AKS hitch stabiliser, Status TV aerial, radio/CD player, BBQ POINT and Thetford cassette loo, exterior mains socket, ATC, Solar panel, alarm, mover fitted.
Exterior Design
The Unicorn still looks quite modern, with three front windows and the central one carrying up over the roof line the Unicorn is distinctive. Bold graphics breaks up the glace white sides while the Bailey rides on Al-KO chassis complete with hitch stabiliser and ATC. The sides are in GRP finish so adding to the tough exterior of the Bailey. However if you’re a fan of front gas lockers, then look elsewhere – Bailey did away with them back in 2010 on the first Alu – Tech Pegasus. Only a side gas locker is fitted and exterior lockers are provided.
Interior Layout
The Valencia is a great layout for two, the front lounge is short settees so only makes into a double bed. The side kitchen comes with decent storage while opposite the fridge/freezer is fitted. The side fixed bed is large enough for a good night's sleep and again comes with ample storage lockers above. The wardrobe is also in the bedroom and of course, this Bailey has an end washroom which is great in size and comes with a roof vent in the shower cubicle itself. However, no window fitted does cut down the amount of daylight allowed into the well-fitted out washroom.
Comfort and Convenience
This Bailey has been well cared for, the price of £18,995 means this tourer really packs a punch for its size and spec. The comfort levels include a supportive mattress and also decent-quality seating too. The front lounge will seat four nicely and night illumination is good too, all LED of course. The kitchen is well equipped and good to see the L-shaped kitchen offers a great worktop too. No, seat base access flaps aren’t fitted, so the whole seating has to be lifted to gain access. The side wardrobe offers ample storage and overall this will be suitable for a couple wanting a well-equipped caravan for affordable money. The Truma mover has been left on by the owners so another nice bit of added spec.
Kitchen and Dining
The kitchen area is well equipped with fridge and separate freezer and of course a microwave. The condition of the kitchen was excellent too and again storage proves a hit though some of it is taken away with the side-fitted gas locker. With supportive seating and a free-standing table included plus a pull-out coffee table the lounge user is well catered for and that large central window lets light flood in too!
Bathroom and Sanitation
End washrooms are ideal especially if you visit small caravan sites with few facilities. The washroom in the Unicorn is spacious and comes with an electric flush loo plus a good-sized hands basin though no window as mentioned is fitted. Also, the washroom was in lovely condition too so we reckon it's been used very little.
Performance and Towing
Just short of 1500 kgs so you will need a larger tow vehicle, we say look at a Toyota Rav 4 hybrid, or look at a Nissan X-Trail Tdi – but as always do check your tow limit and the curb weight too. Some folk just look at the towing limit!!
Pros and Cons
Things I like:
- Spacious
- Solar panel
- Fitted mover
- Decent Spec
- Good price-we've seen the same van £2k dearer!
- Great for couples
Things I don't like:
- No front gas/storage locker
- Not the most modern-looking tourer on the road
- No washroom window for this class of tourer
User Experience
The Unicorn Series 4 sold well but by 2020 became the black edition which offers a better more up-market feel and more modern interior. However don’t write this series 4 off your list. In fact, the Valencia being popular means there are plenty to find both private and at dealers. Do look about and check what's coming as extras with the van. Ours was a steal to be honest, a lot of tourer for the cash. With a good selection of layouts to choose from,the Unicorn Series 4 offers you a layout to suit. The Valencia though is popular right from the word go with the first Unicorns in 2011.
While viewing look out for any floor problems – such as damp and worse case rot. Also, check for any repairs above the rear panel some had problems with water ingress.
Conclusion
The Unicorn sells well used, older models though do look very dated so if you can splash the extra cash for a more modern version like the Series 4. The Valencia has great storage for two especially and looking at this tourer we found it to be in perfect condition though the surround inside above the lounge area does warp and this one had, the dealer told me, but was repaired and looked fine. But they can become badly warped over time – overall the Unicorn Valencia has the option of sleeping four with the front lounge, making into a double bed. Pleasant interior and good spec, the Valencia is one to look out for. But don’t forget, you won't get that front locker!
Check Andy's YouTube Channel HERE for more caravan reviews.
