Announced last week, the Bailey Approach SE is the first ever motorhome made by veteran caravan manufacturers Bailey Caravans. Details were patchy at first, but now we can bring you the full rundown of this new range.
While the Approach SE builds on 60 years experience of manufacturing caravans, the bodyshell features cutting edge innovation, in the form of the Bailey Alu-Tech construction method.
Backed by a ten-year guarantee, the walls are made of GRP, with a plastic internal skeleton, as part of a timber-free construction process. This results in superior protection against water ingress and helps this motorhome achieve Grade III thermal insulation standards for year-round touring.
Furthermore, the fully-laminated aluminium roof panels are cloaked in GRP, and the whole body has been tested in sub-zero conditions at the Millbrook cold chamber.
These weight-saving materials, as well as the AL-KO AMC chassis, mean that weights in the Approach SE range start at just 3,500kg.
As we revealed last week, the cab is based on the Peugeot Boxer, with a 130bhp, 2.2-litre Hdi engine being offered as the only configuration.
Furthermore, the cab comes with plenty of premium options included as standard, such as cruise-control, air conditioning, metallic paint and dual airbags.
Layout luxury
First-timers to the motorhome market may be tempted by the mid-range luxury on offer in the Approach SE, as Bailey claims it is the equivalent of a Pegasus in terms of the creature comforts and premium features that have been carried over from this best-selling range.
The interiors are packed with home comforts, with the Vivaldi-design soft furnishings creating a luxurious atmosphere and the Heki rooflight letting plenty of daylight in.
The fully-equipped kitchens feature large capacity Dometic 8-Series refrigerators, a new Thetford anti-shock oven, a stainless steel 700-watt microwave and cleverly designed washrooms, all of which feature fully lined separate shower cubicles.
In terms of layouts, there will be three to choose from; the twin-berth 620, the fixed-bed four-berth 740 and the 760, which is large enough to sleep six.
The 620 is a popular compact layout, with a convertible double, a side kitchen and an end bathroom. At the other end of the range, the 760 features a double dinette with four seatbelts, meaning all six of you can safely ride in the motorhome.
Prices for the Bailey Approach SE are likely to range from £40,000 to £45,000, but for the exact price tag, you will have to wait until next month when they will be announced at the Motorhome & Caravan Show 2011.
Be sure to check back with Caravan Times next week to find out how you can win free tickets to this enormous exhibition at the Birmingham NEC.
