The Sterling Eccles Sport 586, out of the Swift stable, is constructed using the company’s new SMART intelligent construction method.
SMART construction provides a strong timber-less body frame with modern, desirable looks and a leading aerodynamic shape that is resilient to moisture, all wrapped up in a caravan that has undergone the most comprehensive testing.
The new timber-less body frame uses PURe, a strong polyurethane material that is totally impervious to water and has been proven in use on the continent.
So that’s one direction for the Sterling Eccles, the other is interior design cues taken from the Colour Concept caravan seen at NEC in February. These include hessian effect upholstery in espresso brown with flecks of grey, with teal and bronze scatter cushions, textured wall board and white locker doors with chrome handles.
Now before you throw your hands up in horror, it is very “high street” style, a blend of traditional and contemporary that harmonises well. We liked the French oak lino under the removable carpets and loved the shaggy scatter rug!
The kitchen is on the near side, the shower room opposite, a front end lounge is complemented by a rear section with two fixed bunks and a table which converts to a sleeping area with a bunk above it. It’s an ideal space for the children to call their own little den yet gives two flexible living or sleeping spaces.
There’s a dual fuel hob, a granite effect sink, an oven and a grill plus a microwave, very much your standard caravan equipment. The black splash back and décor panel for the fridge are a bit dramatic.
The shower room has a new practical and water saving feature: an Eco-Camel shower head and hose which injects air directly into the water stream so you use less water yet still experience a powerful shower.
Other green credentials are LED lighting in main areas and a 40W solar panel.
Dual fuel blown-air central heating and hot water is supplied by Truma Combi 6 1.8 kW electric/6kW gas with blown air ducts throughout the caravan.
The new look extends to the outside too with the graphite gas locker door, hitch cover, skirts and wheel arches seen on the Colour Concept caravan with new range graphics.
As per 2013, the entire 2014 Sterling range has the benefit of a Thatcham approved TRACKER Retrieve battery powered caravan tracking device fitted as standard. Security and safety devices as standard also include AL-KO ATC trailer control and AL-KO AKS 3004 stabiliser.
You can find out more about how some of these devices can help to reduce your caravan insurance premium by visiting the Caravan Guard security page.
Verdict: It’s a vibrant and fresh approach to caravan design, good for a couple with two children even though it sleeps six overall, but they may want to bring their friends with them.
There are of course different fabric options available including ‘Impala’ stain resistant easy-clean seating fabric. Adding optional security features such as the AL-KO Secure Lock will reduce the insurance cost.
Cost to insure: £272*
In summary:
- Berths; 6
- Length including tow bar; 7.48m
- Internal length; 5.83m
- Overall width; 2.25m
- Headroom; 1.95m
- MRO; 1367kgs
- MTPLM; 1550kgs
- Overall height; 2.65m
- Awning size; 10.22m
- Recommended Retail Price £18,490.00**
Visit the Swift website for more information on the Sterling Eccles Sport 586.
*Caravan insurance cost based on 2013 Swift Sterling Eccles Sport 586 retailing for £18,490.00. Fitted with Thatcham Approved TRACKER and AL-KO ATC . 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 19/09/13
**Price is ex-works and includes VAT @ 20% but excludes a recommended retailer delivery charge of £545 including VAT which includes delivery and preparing your caravan for collection by you.
We are onto our second Sterling caravan and now have a 2013 Sterling Eccles Sport 586. We love the rear dinette area as it means that we don’t have to gets table out every time we eat. It also means that our daughter can have her own area for her toys and books and colours, whilst myself and my husband can have our own area also. We love the looks both inside and outside and it’s bright modern lines. I feel very proud when we pitch up on our sites. A lovely caravan to own and live in when on holiday.
been trying to change my 2008 swift for two years but it seems nobody is producing a dining area at both ends,this is the only layout that is suitable for me due to mobility problems in the family,why is nobody making them
Loved the bunk area layout.
Hated the dangerous microwave [where’s health and safety when you need it!!]
Why is there always almost the same kitchen workspace for all berth sizes? Where’s the pull out flaps of yesteryear. Did I spot one flap here?
And clothes for 6 in the “wardrobe”.
I’ve always found the cabinet drawers a junk horder & waste of space.