Luxurious and well put together, this four-berth is a great used choice, says Andrew Jenkinson
THE COACHMAN BRAND has become synonymous with great style and the highest quality.
It’s getting on for 40 years since the company set up by Jim Hibbs (formerly of ABI Caravans) launched its first models. At one stage in its long history, Coachman was sold to Elddis. But by the early 2000s, it was back in Jim Hibbs’ hands, with son Elliot later following on.
A few years ago, Coachman became part of upmarket Swedish manufacturing group Kabe. Its backing provided opportunities for continued development at the Hull plant.
With the growing popularity of 8ft-wide caravans, in 2020, Coachman’s designers decided to introduce this width in the super-luxury Laser range.
The new eight-footers, which were designated Xcel, proved an immediate success with the brand’s loyal buyers, and the Laser Xcel soon established its strong position in the market.
Model history
The Laser name first appeared in 1999 as a twin-axle in the VIP range. Then in 2020, Coachman used the Laser platform to go into the 8-ft wide market.
The new Laser Xcel range comprised just two models, but both offered a superb spec and modern interior design. One was the 875 reviewed here.
Offering an interior length of 6.36m, this model came with a large front lounge that took full advantage of the extra width. The floorplan also provided a central kitchen, transverse bed and full-width rear washroom.
Other features included E&P self-levelling, 36-litre underfloor water tank, Al-Ko hydraulic jack, ATC and an Al-Ko wheel lock.
The large L-shaped kitchen had more worktop and the rear washroom was among the most luxurious on the market.
The generous transverse bed fitted in the 875 made it ideal for luxury touring for two, or perhaps on a seasonal pitch.
So, a couple of years later, how are these tourers looking? We found a recently traded-in 2022 Laser Xcel 875, which was competitively priced at £44,950 – a saving of more than £2000 on a 2023 model.
Price checker
This is still a highly desirable tourer, so don’t expect any bargain-basement prices here! We found prices ranging from £37,995 in a private sale, up to £38,995 at one dealership and £44,995 on another forecourt.
For the rest of the range, you can expect to pay:
845 £39,495-£41,995
850 £40,195-£43,195
Alternatives
If you’re seeking lower-priced luxury, you could take a look at the single-axle 2020 Elddis Crusader Mistral,
