Introduction
Andy Jenkinson, AKA the Caravan Industry Expert, reviews the 2014 Elddis Crusader Cyclone caravan.
Elddis launched its Crusader range all the way back in 1976! A two-model, luxury range that years later was expanded and had found a loyal following. We found a rather nice twin axle Crusader Super Cyclone, a high spec tourer with twin single beds and end washroom plus large side kitchen.
Elddis Crusader Specification |
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Berths: |
4 |
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Length: |
6.35 m |
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Width: |
2.29 m |
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MIRO: |
1692 kg |
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MTPLM: |
1852 kg |
Spec included; Alde heating, fridge, oven/grill, duel fuel hob, spot lamps, alloys, Winterhoff hitch stabiliser, Teleco TV aerial, Thetford cassette loo, Alarm, external BBQ point / exterior mains socket microwave, radio/CD player,
Exterior Design
The Crusader profile has remained a classic look for some years, only changing to a new profile for 2023. This classic-looking tourer with triple front windows plus sunroof and smart moulded front and rear panels, oozes a luxury-looking tourer. BPW chassis with IDC stability control means the Elddis will tow well. The gas locker at the front ensures good external storage for wheel chocks etc. There is an external wet locker fitted, and this Crusader comes into the then-new Solid Construction System too.
Interior Layout
This is a tourer that sleeps four, but most will use as a two berth. That means lots of space! The front comes with a lounge with parallel seating plus a central chest of drawers. Seating is plush, with large scatter cushions adding to the comfort of this area. The side kitchen is placed on the offside, with the fridge and separate freezer being placed opposite. The rear end sports two fixed single beds, while the washroom is placed at the end of the Elddis. A full large shower cubicle is fitted, along with a Thetford electric flush loo.
Comfort and Convenience
At nearly a decade old, the Elddis was wearing well. At one time a tourer of this age would have been showing its age with damp and bits dropping off! At £16,495 this offers a lot of tourer for the cash. Luxury is evident with those fans of a wet heating system. Alde is fitted though, if you’re buying private get it checked out. A dealership will do this when they sell you the van. With the space, this tourer offers a great seasonal pitch usage. Making it a four-berth is of course easy with the front lounge making into a double bed using slats to fill the gap, then the cushions sliding into place. Night lighting is excellent with LED spots and integrated lighting, while that end washroom is ideal for parks with few facilities. Storage is good, with large roof lockers being in good supply.
Kitchen and Dining
The lounge comes with a central chest of drawers as mentioned, but also comes with an occasional table too. Ideal for two with a light meal. But for four, a free-standing table is supplied and seating around it will be comfortable for up to four persons. The seating is still okay, but check for this on any used tourer of this age. The kitchen offers great worktop and full oven, with a microwave and separate fridge / freezer. Good storage is provided, and this includes three large drawers and overhead lockers. These are complete with built in drinks cabinet! Very posh! The dual fuel hob and sink were in great order too, so this tourer has been looked after in the kitchen area.
Bathroom and Sanitation
The Crusader range was always good in the washroom department, and the Super Cyclone doesn’t let the side down. There is plenty of floor area, ideal for using as a changing room. Also, a large shower cubicle is fitted. The washroom comes with a side window and great storage, and deep hand basin – all in good order again showing how well this tourer has been looked after.
Performance and Towing
Twin axles allow stable towing. With the BPW chassis and its hitch stabiliser and electronic stability control (IDC), stability should be good. But you will need a hefty tow car such as a Kia Sorrento or Ford Explorer - this is no lightweight tourer!
Pros and Cons
Things I like:
- Luxury tourer
- Great value
- IDC stability
- Alde heating
- Great for couples
Things I don't like:
- Not lightweight
- No mover fitted
User Experience
There are plenty of Crusaders around on the forecourts, and so we say do look around for the best one and price. The Crusader is a large tourer, so don’t forget you need a big tow car. Because of this, so many may use this as a seasonal pitch tourer, having it towed to a new site every couple of years. The Super Cyclone offers two decent fixed single beds with comfortable memory foam mattresses. Ideal for a rest during the day. Most will find the Super Cyclone a comfortable tourer with plenty of life in it, offering more years of touring comfort. Do look for damp in the front window area as well as the rear back panel, and also delaminating floors. A problem with some Crusaders I have come across at times. But make sure you get the right deal too!
Conclusion
If you’re after a tourer for a site, yet don’t want to spend £££££’s, this is a tourer that should be on your wish list. There is plenty of storage – check out the large roof lockers and wardrobe, and that kitchen is a great size too. It's also very well equipped. The Crusader has to be on your list if you’re looking for a luxury pre-owned tourer at less than £17k. Do the checks and it should be plain sailing!
Check Andy's YouTube Channel HERE for more caravan reviews.
