Putting the 2013 Lunar Venus caravan 380/2 to the test

Venus, a brand of Lunar Caravans, has just four models in its range. All are single axle models built on AL-KO chassis and the 380/2 is the larger of two two-berths.

Its rear washroom, centre kitchen and the model we saw had parallel seats in the living area but an L shape option is available at a cost option of £125.00.

The living area is spacious with a nice wide window shelf under the one piece window which has cassette blinds and an insect screen. You could use a television in this area as there are three mains electric power points to choose from and a TV socket. A neat low shelf serves a convenient place to put those mugs of tea or glasses of your favourite tipple and there is a free-standing table that stores in the wardrobe. Four reading lights are well positioned for day and night time even when the seats are made up into a double bed; it measures 6ft4 x 4ft7.

The upholstery is a refreshingly simple cream and aubergine colour with one piece base and back cushions, complemented by Aubergine coloured scatter cushions and curtains and a drop-in carpet. All this harmonises with the modern oak coloured furniture, yet it has a combination of traditional and contemporary look.

The kitchen benefits from plenty of cupboards and drawers and you’ll find a Thetford Duplex oven and grill with a three-burner gas hob. There is one mains electric power point. You get a fridge with a full size icebox and a side dresser with room for all those things that make a caravan home from home and for an electrical appliance such as a television.

Storage space has been maximised by the use of the innovative and award winning Whale gas and electric under floor space heater, which frees up locker space. There are two blown air ducts in the living area and one in the bathroom. Hot water is generated by the Whale Rapid-Heat water heater.

In the shower room, you’d be surprised at the space available but perhaps it’s fair to say that there isn’t a lot of storage space for toiletries; neat is a good description.

The exterior is plain and simple graphics with unobtrusive branding

Verdict: Despite its modest price tag and relatively small size this Lunar Venus is packed with a surprising amount of features as standard. The model we saw was fitted with the “Plus Pack” which includes Alloy wheels, AL-KO AKS 3004 stabiliser/AL-KO Secure wheel lock receiver, spare wheel and carrier, door fly screen and radio/CD/MP3 player with iPod connection; this costs just £399.00 very considerably less than buying the components separately so it’s a no-brainer really. Add the AL-KO Secure wheel lock and watch the insurance price for this caravan drop.

Cost to insure: £206.00*

In summary:

Two berths
Length including tow bar – 5.605
Internal length – 2.960
Overall width – 2.09
Headroom – 1.908
MRO – 849kgs
MTPLM – 998kgs
Overall height – 2.600
Awning length – 850cms
Recommended Retail Price from £11,295.00**

For more information on the Lunar Venus visit www.venuscaravans.com

*Caravan insurance cost based on model fitted with an axle wheel lock, hitchlock, plus standard security and safety devices. 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 May 2013.

**Price is ex-works and includes VAT @ 20% but excludes a recommended retailer delivery charge of £495 including VAT which includes delivery of your caravan to your dealer and preparing your caravan for collection by you.

To see if you could receive a discount when you take out caravan insurance with Caravan Guard, click here.