CWK eMAG ISSUE 01 Issue #1 | Page 16

N A V A R A C E G NEW A B 8 1 E G o k c e G - REVIEW New Age Caravans enlisted the Caravanning with Kids family to road test the 18ft Gecko GE18B as part of the What’s Up ! Downunder Summer Series. In early 2016, New Age Caravans rated number 1 in the Top 3 Aussie Manufacturers category which made for an exciting road test prospect for the entire family. With New Age Caravans high standards and impressive attention to detail, would the Gecko live up to our expectations? Wayne headed to Melbourne to pick up the 18ft Gecko and quickly noticed its ease of towing. The lightweight and compact design made for a smooth trip out of the City and back home to where the family could start their journey along coastal southern NSW and through the windy roads of Gippsland. As a family of four used to trips in our 24ft van, we wondered how the more compact 18ft Gecko would compare. Would it have the features we were used to? Would it be cramped and tiny? Would it manuevre well in all terrains? To say we were impressed with the Gecko is an understatement! We enjoyed a smooth ride and at each stop, the well-designed features of the Gecko were enjoyed by the whole family. For anyone who’s ever had to lug a big step around, the Gecko’s clever design features a manual pull out step which we loved. The interior of the van is designed in such a way to capture as much natural light as possible and never felt dingy or dull. Neutral tones throughout add a light, airy feel, and we were proud to host many a morning tea and games night in our Gecko. The designers at New Age Caravans have put a lot of thought into the functionality and versatility of the van with the the creation of shared spaces. Bunk beds are set into the back of the van, providing a cosy alcove for the kids or visiting grandkids, which convert to a couch if additional beds are not required or unexpected guests turn up. Another well designed feature in a van this size is the ensuite featuring a full sized shower as well as toilet, basin, cupboards and mirror. The floorplan of the Gecko features a split bathroom design so the whole family could co-exist in the van and not be bumping into each other or trying to squeeze past into the bathroom. The Gecko GE18B impressed us at every turn in so many ways. E H T D A E R W E I V E R L L FU CARAVAN REVIEW page 16