We had the great pleasure of reviewing the Aussiewide Bunderra while in Melbourne recently and to say I was impressed is an understatement. As I walked in and around the RV, three words came to mind: quality, class and style. It has street appeal combined with function and the build quality was excellent.

We waited while no less than eight people worked on the van to get it just right for the review. Ross said he wanted it as good for us as he would for one of his customers. I liked that!

Aussiewide Caravans is a family- owned business now into its fifth year of manufacturing. The company specialises in custom-built large self-contained semi-off-road caravans, focusing on quality and customer satisfaction. Aussiewide's customers become friends and they continually call in for a chat and a cup of coffee.

We towed the Bunderra with a Land- Cruiser 80 series that, as always, was up for the challenge. Aussiewide has got the combination of great running gear and heavy-duty chassis down to a fine art.

EXTERNAL

Let's face it, nobody buys an RV and says, "Can you make it look ugly?". Street appeal is the term used to describe the look of the RV on the road. Does it impress, does it stand out from the crowd? When you are paying well in excess of $100K for a complete RV combination, you want it to look good, and the Bunderra does not disappoint.

The combination of chequerplate, black and silver pin striping, the vinyl stoneguard, silver tail-light surround, alloy wheels and mud-terrain tyres, black windows and spare wheel cover all add up to a very nice unit.

I loved the extra storage around this RV. The front and tunnel boot provide great access. Then there is the chequerplate box mounted along the chassis rail. At the rear of the van is the generator storage.

The chassis sits nice and high to provide that extra ground clearance when needed. I'd like to caution that we are not saying these vans can go wherever the car can, as that just isn't true. But with the changes made on the Bunderra, you have greatly increased your chances of going places that others would not even try.

The lowest point on the RV is the door. Water must not enter through the seals here or you will damage your caravan. So if you are crossing a creek, check your depths before proceeding.

The Bunderra also has a reversing camera, which I am glad to see emerging in the industry. Safety of your loved ones is vital, so well done Aussiewide!

INTERNAL

The Bunderra internal layout is designed for long-term tourers from front to back. The bedroom provides a queen bed with innerspring mattress and lift-up storage with drawers underneath. At the end of the bed are two full-height corner cupboards, and just outside the bedroom are another two tall cupboards that provide extra space. What more could you ask for?

The high backrest made the dinette very comfortable. The table leg is offset to provide free space under for your feet. I would like some padding or a cushion against the sidewall to relax, but I am sure that would not be out of the question if you were to ask.

The drawers located under the dinette are very much appreciated when packing your RV.

The kitchen is well planned, with two-door fridge/freezer, full stove, microwave and plenty of bench space. The only downside was the TV sitting on the bench. I think a wall-mounted TV would be better. With loads of storage, including room for a slide-out fridge drawer, huge pot drawer or even a dishwasher, the kitchen will meet the needs of many a good cook.

I inspected the finish of the internal timberwork, and it was well sanded. Aussiewide obviously takes pride in its workmanship.

The ensuite was well laid out with the toilet, LG 5kg washing machine, large shower and vanity all included. Aussiewide has used every nook and cranny to provide storage space in the Bunderra. You may have to watch what your wife brings into the RV or you could be towing an extra tonne around.

WORTH BUYING?

It's nice to see companies like Aussiewide offering a five-year structural warranty, showing confidence in its product. As I said in the beginning, the Bunderra represents quality, class and style at a realistic price. If you want to head off around Australia, then you must look into the Bunderra from Aussiewide.

TECHNICAL SPECS

MAKE/MODEL: Aussiewide Bunderra 23ft

CHASSIS NUMBER: AWC914

EXTERNAL BODY LENGTH: 8m (26ft 6in)

EXTERNAL WIDTH: 2.4m (7ft 11in)

VIN TARE WEIGHT: 2950kg

BALL WEIGHT: 280kg

RRP: $85,000

NB: length and width are external measurements of the vehicle shell (and awning) only

CONTACT/THANKS

CONTACT PERSON: Ross Mafrici and Mark Perkins

COMPANY NAME: Aussiewide Caravans

ADDRESS: 9 Foden Ave, Campbellfield VIC 3061

PHONE: (03) 8339 0550

FAX: (03) 8339 0551

EMAIL: sales@aussiewidecaravans.com.au

WEBSITE: www.aussiewidecaravans.com.au

Please note that current prices may vary from this review. Please confirm with the manufacturer. 

WORDS BY PAUL HUTCHINSON PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRETT SHEARER