Crusader Chameleon Review

Change Your Colours on Campers

Meet the Crusader Chameleon, a hybrid camper/caravan that's perfect for touring. It ticks all the boxes for many Aussie campers. But, don't be fooled by its compact size – this little ripper can take you on amazing adventures while providing a comfortable, self-contained home away from home.

Gone are the days of tedious setup and pack-up times. With the Chameleon, you'll be camping in comfort in no time. Simply wind down the stabilizers and jockey wheel, fold down the rear step, and open the mesh-style security door. You'll be enjoying the great outdoors before you know it without the need for extended tent assemblies, as the Chameleon's clever design eliminates the need for a cumbersome canvas set-up.

Instead, you'll find a sleek, compact kitchen with a three-burner gas stove, sink with pressurized hot and cold water, a detachable cutting board, and utensil drawers. And for those lazy mornings, there's even a second twin-burner stove and sink inside for a quick meal or morning cuppa. The Crusader Chameleon is the perfect solution for Aussie campers seeking a hassle-free, comfortable, and self-contained adventure. Its compact size and quick setup make it ideal for exploring our wonderful land, but without the fuss.

Winner, Winner Chameleon Dinner!

While some may scoff at leaf spring suspension, I'm a fan of its rugged, time-tested simplicity. Paired with the robust G&S Chassis, it's a winning combination. However, for those who insist on independent suspension, Crusader Caravans – the 2019 CIA Manufacturer of the Year Award Winner – can customize a rig to meet your preferences, albeit at an additional cost.

One of the standout features of the Chameleon is its remarkably light weight, with tare weights starting from just 950kg and load capacities ranging from 600 to 1300kg. This makes it significantly lighter than many popular campers and a whopping 1000kg (or more) lighter than some imported hybrids. As a result, the Chameleon can be towed behind a wide range of family-friendly vehicles.

The Chameleon's compact size belies its spacious interior. Its 2-metre body width allows it to ride comfortably in the tracks of most towing vehicles. Measuring 5.5 metres in length, the cabin area provides ample insulated living space, with dimensions of approximately 4m x 2m x 1.9m. The added security of an insulated solid shell is a significant advantage that shouldn't be overlooked.

Chameleon - Adapt to You

Crusader's Chameleon lives up to its name, adapting seamlessly to your needs. Upfront, twin single beds can be effortlessly slid together to form a comfortable double bed, perfect for a cozy night's sleep. The interior fit-out options are varied, but our review model boasted a popular ensuite layout. The ensuite features a full-height shower, cartridge-style toilet, and solid shower door, creating a sense of luxury. While there's no vanity, a conveniently located sink opposite the toilet ensures functionality.

Water supply is plentiful, thanks to 2 x 62-litre tanks and a gas/electric hot water system. The Chameleon can even be optioned for restricted camping areas with grey water tanks. A full-length dressing mirror on the ensuite door adds a touch of elegance, enhancing the sense of space. Throughout the Chameleon, the level of fit-out is exceptional, with a thoughtful blend of textures and surfaces.

Storage is abundant inside and out, with internal drawers and cabinetry complemented by external hatches and a convenient drawbar-mounted toolbox. On the roof, a 170W solar panel charges a 120Ah deep cycle battery, powering an array of LED lighting, radio, television, and the 110-litre 12V compressor refrigerator. A 9kg gas bottle, spare wheel, and jerry can holders on the drawbar complete the package, making the Chameleon a self-sufficient and comfortable home away from home.

The Crusader Chameleon is a visual feast, with its sleek, aerodynamic front supporting loading racks. It's perfect for kayaks, surfboards, or other adventure gear. A portable telescopic ladder would be a handy addition for effortless loading and unloading. (I've got one for my 4WD - they're great!) The Chameleon's decals add a touch of personality, while the array of insulated windows, complete with awnings and fly screens, provides a perfect blend of functionality and style. Although our review model featured a short side awning, it's easy to imagine personalizing the Chameleon options to suit your individual taste.

The Verdict

As an Aussie-made addition to the hybrid camper market, the Crusader Chameleon is a standout. Its broad appeal extends far beyond the hardcore off-road enthusiast crowd, making it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a comfortable, stylish, and self-sufficient camping experience. Meanwhile, don't be surprised if you find yourself beaten to your favourite campsite by a Chameleon – it's a camper that's sure to turn heads and arrive in style!

Specifications (Snapshot)

Tare: 1246kg (as displayed)

ATM: 2200

Body: Insulated composite aluminium panel

Chassis: G&S 100 x 50mm box section

Ball Weight: 120kg

Suspension: Std 9 leaf eye to eye with 50mm square axle

Tyres: (Size and type) 15x235 all-terrain

Sleeps: 2

Water Capacity: 2 x 62ltr with electric water pump

Battery & Charger: 170w Solar and 120aH deep cycle battery

Fridge: 110ltr 12v compressor

Cooktop: Dometic slide-out kitchen with three burner cooktop plus dual burner internal

Hits

Easy set-up

Lightweight

Fully insulated security shell

Sensible range of accessories

Convertible bedding

Misses

I would personalise the awnings, side, and rear

Needs a portable ladder for the roof racks

Ready for Adventure? 

Find your dream van online at OnlyVans.com.au!  Check out our selection of Crusader Caravans for sale for more, including the Crusader Chameleon.

And if you're still in research mode, we have many other great deals on caravans for sale, including used caravans and caravans from private sellers. You can also find motorhomes for sale, camper trailers, and pop top caravans. No matter how you like to travel, we've got you covered. 

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