Swift's New Sport
Swift’s new Sports are aimed at the mid –market and offer stylish well equipped tourers for the cash. With the success of the Swift Challengers and Conquerors new profiles last year, it seemed the natural thing to do for Swift to introduce the same new profile to the next generation models.
A Challenger Sport without the sun roof looks plainer but gains front roof locker storage
2012 Swift Challenger Sport 382
£13,895 (excluding sunroof cost)
Berths: 2
Length: 3.72 m
Width: 2.25 m
MIRO: 1028 kgs
MTPLM: 1143 kgs
www.swiftgroup.co.uk
With the Charisma range now gone and sadly the Europa, a name that celebrated 40 years in 2011, have all been replaced. So the Challenger Sport is the choice, a new name well old name with a zing in it perhaps. The new Sports do look pretty good, we like the stylish looks and the overall quality of finish too. Plus roofs are now bonded which means there far stronger.
We looked at the baby of the line up the 382; yes it’s a traditional end kitchen corner washroom front lounge and side dresser with wardrobe opposite. All pretty simple, but a layout that’s making a slow return as it appeals to older couples who want a comfortable lightweight tourer in a well tried and planned layout. Even in a small body length the profile still looks good, our brief test look 380 had the optional roof window fitted and it does make the van look smarter still. One –piece sides and bold graphics add to the kerbside appeal while the front locker is excellent in its storage capabilities. Al-Ko chassis with AKS hitch stabilizer plus ATC means you will have no worries with stability.
The 382 may be compact but step inside and its impressive spacious ambience will certainly appeal to most couples. It feels just right with its furniture finish and modern overtones. Of course the sun roof does certainly help to create a more airy interior too. Rear end kitchen is well planned with full oven and duel fuel hob. Spark ignition is of course fitted and so to is a microwave, which is slotted between the two roof lockers. Neatly done but some users may find it a tad high so care needs to be taken Roof lockers have cutlery racks fitted while general cupboard storage is a strong point in the 382’s kitchen. Granite finish sink is Swifts own design and manufacture while worktop isn’t a strong pint the side dresser does have some to spare. Rear window could have been made a little larger we feel to allow more natural light and ventilation too.
Kitchen area has excellent storage while full oven comes with duel fuel hob, one plug socket is available only
With the extra cupboard storage in the kitchen area it’s no surprise to find the fridge is positioned in the side dresser. Its here to that more power sockets are added although you only have one in the kitchen. A roof locker above the dresser adds storage while opposite the wardrobe has double doors and has some good storage. The Truma heater is fitted below and has to blown air outlets – the lounge and the washroom – though two in the lounge would have been good.
The front lounge of the 382 is very light and airy and that of course is helped with the sun roof – it really does give the interior a real open look. Side roof lockers are placed either side and offer some decent storage plus the fit and finish is very good too. Chest of drawers is standard fit and offers extra storage but the slide out occasional coffee table tilts easily and is a poor design feature of the Challenger Sport 382. Good lighting offers LED spots plus integral lighting so at night there won’t be any dark corners. Its here the radio speakers are also fitted into the ceiling, and having sample the sound quality on another Challenger Sport to be honest the sound is disappointing.
Front lounge is a good comfort zone, airy feel is helped by sunroof and seating is comfortable and very supportive-we like the design too.
The lounge seating is really comfortable and if you use the double bed (made up using pull-out slats) you won’t be disappointed with the comfort and size. Twin singles can also be made up and again the quality upholstery will give you a good night’s sleep. Gaining access to beneath the seat lockers is easy because the flaps are full length so bedding can be put away without lifting the tops. One area we have left to the last is the corner side washroom. Considering its compact size the washroom is well designed although showering could be a little tight. Solid folding doors are fitted and so to is a Thetford electric flush loo, the molded ABS sink unit has enough storage beneath for toiletries and a large mirror is provided too.
So does the Challenger Sport 382 live up to its expectations? Well it’s a tourer that a couple who want to downsize would certainly do well to look at. The modern profile and quality build gives the Sport 382 the edge and most we reckon will opt for the £295 sun roof though it does mean losing some storage. The interior is modern yet restrained, if you’re after a more modern interior then opt for the Eccles Sport 382. However the Swift has all the bits you need and such things as the upholstery and carpets impressed with their quality. The Sport 382 has much to praise with only a few negative comments, its well equipped well priced and it’s light in weight too.
Side washroom is compact – solid shower doors are fitted and electric flush loo, large mirror and vanity unit