Good design in a comfortable interior make this an appealing choice, says Andrew Jenkinson
SWIFT DROPPED the popular Sterling Europa brand for 2012, to streamline its ranges.
The Sterling shared the same bodyshell as regular Swift models, but the interiors were different.
Modern interiors were a key feature of the Sterling brand, which was originally launched by Caravans International.
Swift took on the brand in 1994, positioning it as a good alternative for buyers of its more traditional Charisma. The Europa mirrored the Charisma line-up, with a good spec, robust build and a wide selection of layouts.
Model history
The Europa provided a good choice of floorplans, and the 550, with a side fixed bed and end washroom, was a popular model. In 2010, a new layout, based on the 550 and named the 545, was launched. This came with a U-shaped dinette instead of the side fixed bed.
The four-berth 545 was the final model added to the range, although these days, the Europa badge can still be found on a number of dealer specials.
The 545 was in production for just two years, but the Europa range came with an excellent spec, including a Status TV aerial, oven, dual-fuel hob, fridge, microwave, blown-air heating, alloy wheels and an AKS hitch stabiliser.
The 545 model that we recently saw on the forecourts benefited from the addition of a few extras, such as a gas barbecue point and a Truma awning warmer outlet – the first we’ve seen fitted to a Swift tourer.
One-piece sides and stylish design, all in a medium price band, mean the Sterling Europa range still attracts buyers.
Price checker
Shopping around, we found several 545s for sale, ranging in price from as low as £10,500 to the £11,995 for the model we’re reviewing here.
Among the private sales, we found one for just £9995, so it could definitely pay to do some research before you buy. Always check for those valuable extras, too, such as a motor mover.
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