Introduction
Andy Jenkinson, AKA the Caravan Industry Expert, reviews the 2019 Swift Sprite Quattro 6
The Sprite is a name that spans back over 75 years. Caravanners old and new know the Sprite brand as offering value and style. In modern times, the twin axle Quattro offers big family tourers such as this 2019 6 berth with double dinette layout. We check out this family tourer five years on!
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Swift Sprite Quattro 6 Specification |
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Berths: |
6 |
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Length: |
6.27m |
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Width: |
2.24 m |
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MIRO: |
1363 kg |
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MTPLM: |
1588 kg |
Spec included; Truma heating, fridge, oven/grill, 3 gas burner hob, spot lamps, alloys, AKS hitch stabiliser, Status TV aerial, Thetford cassette loo, external BBQ point / exterior mains socket/microwave, radio/CD player.
Exterior Design
The Sprite looks incredibly smart and modern in looks and the twin axle offers stability on tow too. Alloys were in great condition and tyres too, though we still say check them. The last owners had fitted a gas BBQ point and exterior mains socket. Large front gas locker means you can put water containers etc in, and the GRP moulded front and end panels are solid. The Sprite is of course built on an Al-KO chassis but doesn’t have ATC fitted. It does feature an AKS hitch stabiliser.
Interior Layout
The double dinette layout was a layout that every caravan manufacturer had in its lineup of models. It's a great layout for the family as the rear-end dinette can be closed off from the rest of the caravan. The kitchen is placed on the nearside, while the washroom and the wardrobe are placed opposite. The front lounge can be made into twin single beds or a massive double. The rear dinette can be made into twin single bunks on either side.
Comfort and Convenience
At five years old, the Sprite was looking in really good order. The exterior was in really nice condition and the windows hadn’t been badly scratched either. The panels too, were also showing no signs of scrapes or knocks. The interior is contemporary, and the seating is comfortable with good support. There are scatter cushions for both dinettes. Both dining areas offer plenty of space to lounge around in, and also both have free-standing tables. Night illumination is spot on with LED lighting and also in-built spot lights. Heki roof vent is fitted, though the sunroof allows in good natural light too. There is also a good amount of overhead roof lockers in the front and rear of the Sprite, so storage should be well provided for, even with six on board!
Kitchen and Dining
Both the front and rear lounges come with central chest of drawers, plus a locker beneath. Both with pull-out coffee tables. Storage under the seat lockers is well taken care of too, with access flaps fitted, so not having to disturb the cushions. The rear end has an end window, though it’s a portrait design, so does slightly hinder looking out and limiting natural light entering this area of the Sprite.
The side kitchen offers the user plenty of worktop space. as well as a large sink. This is a GRP-manufactured unit by Swift, which can look jaded over the years. But this was in as new condition. There is an oven and three burner hob with spark ignition, while a Dometic fridge is fitted along with an overhead microwave. There is a large cupboard and of course, those overhead lockers plus a mains socket.
Bathroom and Sanitation
Get into the washroom and yes, it’s a side design, which means space is at a premium. However, the washroom is functional and comes with a separate shower cubicle but no ventilation. Only the roof vent in the main loo area. Here, a hand basin with storage below is fitted, with a large wall mirror and shelving. A Thetford electric flush cassette loo is fitted, and overall for young children, the washroom is ideal. The shower is perfectly suitable though for adults too.
Performance and Towing
This is a Sprite and they are known for towing well, this with its twin-axle should prove stable. This Sprite features an AKS hitch stabiliser fitted which was standard. You’re looking at a tow car that has some beef about it, though the Sprite isn’t as heavy as some twin-axle tourers. However, always go for a car as heavy as you can, for extra stability. Suggestions include the Kia Sorrento which will be ideal for towing the Sprite.
Pros and Cons
Things I like:
- Big family tourer
- Great value
- Large wardrobe
- Truma blown heating
- Spacious and well equipped
- BBQ point
- Exterior mains socket
Things I don't like:
- No glazed entrance door
- No mover fitted
User Experience
So for those looking for a big tourer with ample space for a family, the Swift Sprite Quattro ticks all the boxes. This is a tourer that's ideal for a seasonal pitch. There is plenty of kit and we also say look out for dealer specials. These often came with some really good extra kit, including alarm and solar panel. Many people love their Sprites and yes, as any make, problems arise. After all, caravans are put together by humans!
Conclusion
The Sprite caravan is a legend in caravanning history. Many will have owned one at some stage, myself included, plus my grandparents buying a new Musketeer model in 1962! Sprites offer a good range of layouts, and the Quattro DD was a good one to own. They were not made for long, but do check out the other Sprite family models and as mentioned, look out for used dealer specials always a good value buy!
Check Andy's YouTube Channel HERE for more caravan reviews.
