
Nova Signature Series Family Escape 20-8C Review
Time flies so fast that if you don't prioritise family time, you'll regret it forever. The perfect time to create memories is now, and a Nova Family Escape Signature Series caravan can make that happen. We tested the popular 20-8C model, one of seven Family Escape layouts designed to suit every family's needs. At Nova, family comes first.
The Signature Series 20-8C is an excellent blend of strength, capability, premium accommodation, and good looks. Measuring 6.76 meters in length, it offers ample internal space with plenty of headroom, creating a genuine sense of spaciousness. This family van is built to perform well for extended touring and provides all the comforts of home when you arrive at your campsite.
The Nova's solid foundation starts with a strong 6" chassis and A-frame, showcasing a well-finished underside. The plumbing, welding, and electrical work are top-quality and well-protected to prevent issues on the road. This touring style van rides on tandem rocker suspension with 16" wheels and tyres, and features good ground clearance for undulating surfaces. Additionally, it comes equipped with AL-KO ESC towing stability for added safety. The drawbar is fully equipped with traditional towing components, including twin 9kg gas bottles and a mesh infill in the A-frame. This mesh section is perfect for storing dirty, wet, or muddy items or adding extra external storage.
Families need plenty of power and water for a comfortable trip. The Nova Family Escape Signature Series caravan has twin 95-litre water tanks and a grey water tank for sensitive environments. A pair of 105AMP batteries is charged by the 240-volt inlet and charger, two 170W solar panels, or the Anderson plug.
The caravan's construction features Nova's Pro-Al composite aluminium and insulated foam sandwich, providing strong, smooth finishes and a protective layer to regulate temperature. The one-piece fibreglass construction for the roof and walls ensures longevity and prevents water ingress. The external walls have attractive decals, gunmetal checkerplate surrounds, tinted double-glazed Euro-style windows with sliding awnings and flyscreens. This caravan comes equipped with a range of features, including:
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Reversing camera
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Spare wheel on a strong bumper
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Roof-mounted air conditioner
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Wind-up TV aerial
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External 240V, 12V, and TV points
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Gas bayonet
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Strong security door with illuminated handle
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Booming speakers with CD/stereo and Bluetooth
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LED lighting array for ambience
The awning provides comfortable camping space, and the LED lighting sets the mood inside and out.
Step inside the Nova Family Escape Signature Series caravan, and you'll find a luxurious interior with inviting colours, finishes, and textures. The layout is well-designed, starting with a forward entry that leads directly to the island-style Queen bed up front. The bed area features loads of storage underneath, ample wardrobe space, drawers, and cabinetry, including individual niches for personal items, reading lights, and a padded bed head.
Nova have included an upholstered L-shaped dinette with thick, comfortable padding and teamed it with a fully adjustable table. (Leather is an option) The kitchen is opposite, boasting a comprehensive layout that includes a 4-burner stove with grill and oven, featuring one electric element with a range hood overhead. There is also a microwave oven plus the stainless steel sink and preparation surfaces all well lit either by convenient lighting or natural light through the backing window.
The kitchen's design is both functional and attractive, thanks in part to the laminate insert on top of the stove, which creates additional bench space. The kitchen also features metal drawers and utility storage, complemented by a 184L Thetford fridge/freezer to keep food and drinks fresh.
Plenty of Storage Space
Moving towards the rear, you'll find a pair of good-sized bunks, with the lower bunk suitable for adults and the upper bunk destined for kids or teenagers. The bunk area is designed to accommodate families, with the option to upgrade to three bunks for larger families. You always need more storage in a family van, and we find additional cabinetry under the lower bunk and floor-to-ceiling wardrobes and cabinets on the rear wall. The ensuite is suitably sized even for larger adults with an individually enclosed shower, toilet, vanity, and dressing mirror.
Nova utilises a single-span roof section to eliminate moisture ingress, and this is fitted with an array of vents and hatches for variable light and airflow. A pair of Sirocco fans assist that flow and, when you really need it, a low-line air conditioner. All of the windows and hatches are well insulated to aid climate control.
The Nova Family Escape caravan features a sophisticated electronics system that powers all your essential and entertainment needs. At its core are twin 105Ah batteries, which are charged by solar panels and external power sources. This setup supports a range of amenities, including RV Wi-Fi, a 24" Smart TV, a CD/Bluetooth sound system, and various lighting options, all carefully controlled by a power management system. A notable feature of the caravan's electrical system is its fully accessible wiring, which makes it easy to identify and fix faults in the future. Additionally, the caravan has a gas/electric hot water system, providing versatility and convenience. Nova’s options include a washing machine, bedding, enhanced suspension and chassis, bike racks, AL-KO ATS, and even a pet grooming pack.
Nova Caravans
Nova Caravans is a multi-award-winning company established in 2006 by Robert Cataldo, who has worked in the caravan industry since 1981. With his extensive experience, Nova Caravans has emerged as a market leader, known for its stylish and innovative designs that blend a chic European twist with the ability to withstand the Australian environment. Nova's long history and commitment to quality have earned it a reputation as a trusted and reliable brand in the caravan industry.
Maybe now is the time to treat your tribe to that well-earned Family Escape.
Specifications
Tare: 2396kg (as displayed)
ATM: 2996kg (as displayed)
Body: Insulated composite Pro-Al aluminium panel with fibreglass roof
Chassis: heavy-duty chassis with a 6” A-Frame
Ball Weight: 143kg
Suspension: rocker-style tandem leaf suspension
Wheels & Tyres: R16 All Terrain tyres & 16” alloy wheels
Sleeps: 4/5 (Table makes another bed)
Water Capacity: 95L95lt with electric water pump
Battery & Charger: 2 x 160w Solar and 2 x 105Amp DC Battery
Fridge: 184lt 3 Way Fridge/Freezer.
Cooktop: cooktop with three gas and one electric element, microwave, grill, oven, and 12V Rangehood
Hits
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Aesthetics
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Sensible range of accessories
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Family van
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Comfortable flow and head height
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Terrific storage
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Great price
Misses
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The only misses are available as options!
Dimensions
Internal Length: 6760mm
Total Length: 8270mm
Total Height: 2915mm
Are You Still Shopping for the Perfect Van?
If you enjoyed this review, go check out our current selection of Nova Caravans for sale! We also have many other great 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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