The Sterling Eccles Sport is the 2012 model year replacement for the mid-range Sterling Europa. This is not a mere redesign or mid-life nip and tuck – but a completely redesigned caravan from the ground up. From the new aerodynamic design on the outside to the stylish new interior, everything has been upgraded to bring a higher quality to this range of the market. And what’s immediately apparent is how the top of the range Eccles has been the design inspiration for the Sterling Eccles Sport.
Keen-eyed readers who are familiar with the 2011 Sterling Eccles range will notice the similar lines and curves have carried over to this model. Hence the “Sport” tag – a lighter, slimmed-down version of the top end model. The swoopy styling of the exterior helps this caravan stand out from the crowd, while the optional panoramic sunroof seen last year on the Eccles also makes it to this range. Yet in order to bring these models within the reach of regular family vehicles, Swift has put a huge amount of work into engineering to create light weight.
What’s new on the Sterling Eccles Sport?
If you’re unfamiliar with the heritage of Swift Caravans, then it’s easy to become confused between the Swift and Sterling Caravans ranges. Both appear to be identically constructed, but with contrasting appearances – so what makes the Sterling Eccles Sport different from the Swift Challenger Sport?
The main difference is about taste – and what you prefer as a caravan buyer. If you like modern interiors then the Sterling Eccles Sport will appeal. It features a lighter woodgrain called “Oregon Pine” to create a sense of spaciousness and light, while a striking set of graphics at window level complete the exterior. Meanwhile the Challenger Sport offers a far more traditional appearance, with sober burgundy and grey highlights on the exterior, and the darker “Malia Acacia” woodgrain on the interior.
Taking a look at the exterior, Swift has gone with hard-wearing GRP for the front section with the aim of protecting the caravan from stone chips and road material. The gas locker at the front has been widened for storing all oddments, while ABS has been used on the full-height rear panel. And a body-coloured awning rail on each side integrate into the overall look.
Eight models, two new layouts
Two new layouts have been added, while the Sterling Eccles Sport range features eight layouts overall. Large families or those needing room for guests will be attracted to the 636, a twin-axle caravan with plenty of storage. This six-berth model offers bunk space for children in the rear section, while there’s plenty more bedding upfront for the grownups.
But if you like your caravan space to be open-plan with as much light as possible, then the new 514 could appeal. Sporting a 5.2m fixed bed, this popular format is likely to be a best seller.
Speaking of light, there’s been a dramatic improvement in lighting options inside the new Sterling Eccles Sport. If you’re sitting in the front section there’s a moulded light for those who enjoy reading, while in the bedroom and lounge you’ll find over-locker illumination. And for those conscious of energy costs, the new LED lights in the main section help keep consumption down.
For more details, news, rumour and discussions on the Sterling Eccles Sport, join our community group for Sterling Caravan Owners.
