Clearly, this off-road version of Coromal's Silhouette range has much to offer as one of the five different models in the range. This is a camper trailer ready for those looking for a camper that maintains much of the convenience of a full-sized caravan, while keeping the sense of freedom and adventure inherent in a camper.

With a drive-away price similar to an entry-level standard caravan and less than an off-road caravan, I looked over the camper to see if it lived up to the promise of its Pioneer tag.

As a Pioneer model, this camper needed to be ready to go anywhere and do it with ease and convenience. There is no doubt the Nissan Patrol and Coromal looked good together. Of course, sitting low behind the Patrol meant the camper doesn't need to punch through the air as it travels. Its towing height of less than 1.8m meant it sat in low and tight to the Nissan, tracking well as we drove.

The Coromal's handling ability certainly provided the confidence that if towed with care, it would carry over many a rough road and through a good number of off-road situations. Now, that's what camper freedom is all about.

EXTERNAL

The Pioneer is a lightweight but robust camper. There is no doubt that if you are deciding whether or not to invest in a camper over a caravan, lightweight is the word. As the review model was a six-berth camper trailer, it is worth remembering that an equivalent berth full-sized caravan would weigh in almost a full tonne heavier. Despite its mass, the camper looks strong and with its aluminium wall frame construction it has a nice balance between strength, durability and weight.

The camper allows the outside to merge with the inside thanks to a removable side panel and an entrance door that can roll back out of the way. After a day on the beach, or exploring rock pools in the tropical north, there is nothing better than a soothing warm shower. Many campers don't cater for modern travellers needing a little comfort by way of a shower – the review Coromal had this option.

A convenient battery hatch, picnic table and front boot that a padded stone guard protected completed the camper's exterior package. While the camper is kept stable by four wind down corner legs when in camp, on the road a super-galvanised heavy-duty steel RHS chassis, independent suspension and 50mm stub axle all add to its off-road ability. The Treg coupling made hitching the Coromal to the Patrol easy.

INTERNAL

First impressions show an open and airy camper with room for six. Daytime set-up means being able to remove the front window panel to allow the inside to merge with the outdoors, and that's great on a warm summer's day. At night, close up the side panel and drop down the removable table to allow the dinette area to become another double bed.

Thankfully, when the camper is set into its night-time configuration, travellers don't need to spread out on made beds. The Pioneer has a lounge at both ends of the camper, making it comfortable for the late-night chat over coffee without the risk of spilling biscuit crumbs in your bed.

As far as the beds are concerned, the airy feeling of the camper means that even those travellers sleeping in the rear or front foldout bunks shouldn't experience the sort of claustrophobia some feel when sleeping in some poptops or even sometimes in the Luton peaks of some motorhomes.

In terms of storage, Coromal has manufactured a camper with a load of storage under the kitchen and dinette seating. Storage space, cupboards and drawers are properly finished, so you're not likely to get any splinters from rummaging around looking for the camera, toothbrush, or veggie peeler.

When it comes to meal times, the review van was equipped with a Smev stove and grill with three gas and one electric burner. Need to reheat your porridge? No problem. Just reach for the LG microwave located near the entrance door. When it comes to keeping the butter and beer cold, the Coromal had an easily accessible and conveniently placed RM2350 Dometic three-way fridge.

Thanks to a well-designed slide-out kitchen area, the trailer boasted slightly extra floor space. This adds to the open feeling and allows greater air circulation. What's more, it allows for an attractive bay window, which is ideal for cooking on rainy days.

All in all, a worthwhile design feature as space is always an issue with campers. As much as any camper can insulate against cold winter nights or hot, dry summer days, the Pioneer is better than others because Coromal has insulated the fibreglass roof and walls.

WORTH BUYING?

The Pioneer is a sturdy camper more than capable of creating a sense of freedom. It has strength, sturdiness and enough space to make your short break away exploring the great outdoors a memorable experience. This range of campers sets a high standard of comfort and convenience.

TECHNICAL SPECS

MAKE/MODEL: Coromal Pioneer Silhouette 421

CHASSIS NUMBER: 136540

EXTERNAL BODY LENGTH: 4.23m (13ft 11in)

EXTERNAL WIDTH: 2.16m (7ft)

VIN TARE WEIGHT: 1220kg

BALL WEIGHT: 140kg

RRP: $36,635 inclusive of dealer delivery and on-road cost ex Qld, interstate and regional prices may vary.

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

CONTACT/THANKS

CONTACT PERSON: Sean Connor

NAME: Coromal Sunshine Coast

ADDRESS: 31-37 Lear Jet Drive, Caboolture, QLD 4510

PHONE: (07) 5431 7706, 0415 304 739

FAX: (07) 5428 2029

EMAIL: sales@coromalsc.com.au

WEBSITE: www.coromalsc.com.au

MANUFACTURER: Coromal

MANUFACTURER'S PHONE: (08) 9352 0900

MANUFACTURER'S EMAIL: sales@coromal.com.au

MANUFACTURER'S WEBSITE: www.coromal.com.au

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