2015 Bailey Unicorn Seville caravan review: third time even luckier

Whilst it’s hard to see Bailey being disappointed with the success of the Unicorn range it announced for season 2011, it’s interesting to note 2015 sees it in its third incarnation. True to form, it’s hard to argue against it being better than ever.

The two-berth Seville featured here remains the baby of what is now an eight-model line-up, where the general theme remains the same – high specification, stonking good value.

Indeed, the kit count has been even further extended in this third generation – with features like the 100Watt solar panel and several insurance-saving security features all included in the price. These add to cossetry that already covers everything from Alde heating to a DAB radio/CD with USB connection.

Indeed, the only factory-fit option of note (apart from increasing the bodywork warranty) is the alternative Trafalgar upholstery, as shown here. And even that’s only a £199 extra.

Latest Unicorns are distinguishable by their bright white exteriors. There’s also a rounded roofline at the back that’s supposed to offer that bit more wind-cheating efficiency and, in turn, fuel economy. You certainly don’t need an excessively hefty towcar here.

Inside, it’s a classic end-washroom two-berth layout. There’s all the daylight you’ll ever want coming in at the front end, thanks to that lengthened central window, Heki rooflight overhead and not-quite-twin side windows (the offside is larger than the nearside).

However, this does serve to heighten a slight dark spot towards the back of the ‘van – perhaps the rooflight over the kitchen should have shifted back slightly on the design board? There’s certainly space to add a ceiling light here. Elsewhere, there’s a generous supply of bright, energy-efficient LED lighting.

There’s one other niggle. The free-standing table stows in the wardrobe (which, in turn, is in the washroom). It’s not an ideal location, especially when the wardrobe – already not the biggest – is packed with clothing.

It’s a well-equipped kitchen, with generous storage space. Adjacent, there’s the latest 9-series Dometic fridge with removable freezer box, but hinged to the right means access isn’t the easiest when you’re preparing meals.

Likewise, locating the sink immediately next to the cooker may get an OK from some, but others might feel worktop between the two fittings would be more practical.

There are no complaints about the cooker. It’s Thetford’s Caprice III in latest guise – dual-fuel hob, separate oven and grill, pan store, note the new controls – supplemented by a fitted Daewoo microwave oven overhead that most will deem a suitable height. There’s even a locker for three bottles here.

Meanwhile, it’s the low furniture unit adjacent to the door that really heightens the feeling of interior space.

Drawers and locker doors throughout are soft close. Overhead lockers have a two-tone style, with a gloss finish to the lower sections.

Across the back, the washroom has space for a generous shower cubicle, with inward-opening door and plastic lining to its other three walls. Despite angling the wardrobe front, things are just a little tight in the changing area, and the window would be all the more practical if it were opaque rather than clear.

On the plus side, the laundry locker is a neat touch, and there’s now a proper radiator in here to keep things that bit cosier. And the extending shaving mirror is likely to be appreciated by at least one half of the couple (it’s ideal for perfecting your make-up, too, of course).

When night time beckons, single bed sizes are 1.91m x 0.65m for the nearside single, while the offside is just a single centimetre shorter. Pull out the slats for a double and you get a perfectly generous 1.98m x 1.90m. There are concertina blinds, with lined curtains to the lounge windows.

This is the Bailey that has everything. Except a high price tag. It’s not short of rivals, unsurprisingly. Equally, it’s no shock to hear Bailey beats them all on specification at the price.

Verdict: Supremely equipped but competitively priced win-win formula

Plus: Superior equipment levels throughout, spacious lounge and kitchen

Minus: Table storage, fridge/freezer access, clear washroom window

In-a-nutshell: Price-led luxury

Cost to insure: £228*

In summary:

• Bailey Unicorn Seville
• Dimensions 6.47m L, 2.28m W, 2.61m H
• Berths 2
• MTPLM 1,369kg
• MIRO 1,242kg
• Payload 127kg
• Key options: Alternative upholstery £199
• Safety and security: Tracker Retrieve, Al-Ko ATC and stabiliser, WSL wheel bolts, TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System) compatibility, Al-Ko Secure Wheel Lock, shock absorbers, spare wheel and carrier, single-key operation

Recommended retail price from £20,090**

There’s more information on the Unicorn range on the Bailey website and to find out more about low cost premiums visit the caravan insurance discounts page.

Alternatives: Coachman VIP 460/2, Compass Rallye 482, Lunar Clubman CK, Sterling Continental/Swift Conqueror 480

*Caravan insurance cost based on 2015 Bailey Unicorn Seville retailing at £20,090 fitted with Tracker Retreive,  AL-KO ATC, AL-KO Secure wheel lock. Kept on drive at HX4 0BE. Caravanners over 30 years old, claim free for 3 years and a member of a caravanning club. £100 excess. 180 days European cover and up to £75 per day for up to 15 days emergency accommodation cover included. Legal expenses cover, extended European cover and other emergency accommodation expenses cover options are available at extra cost. Quote includes 10% online discount and 6% Insurance Premium Tax and is correct as of 11/12/2014

**On-the-road, including VAT at 20%