Bailey Unicorn Vigo 2014
The Bailey Unicorn Vigo review from the experts at Practical Caravan reveals the latest updates to this popular, premium range
Overview
The opening skylight and rooflight combo, as well as the recessed front chest, are the lounge’s standout features
Bailey doesn't follow the annual launch cycle favoured by its rivals, but fans of the Bristol-based brand will be cheered by two new models, unveiled in autumn 2013.
The second iteration of the premium Unicorn range, launched a year ago, has built firmly on the success of the original. In came GRP sidewalls, a vertical opening skylight, a recessed centre chest and a split-level kitchen, to name just a few of the improvements. So one year on, with sales of the Unicorn II buoyant, the range is set to expand with new single- and twin-axle models.
Pitching and setting up
The Unicorn II Vigo runs on an Al-Ko chassis with buttonless handbrake. The front corner steadies are easily accessed from the side of the caravan; the ones at the back are under the rear skirt so require a slight stoop to reach them.
The battery box and electric hook-up connection are located on the nearside, just in front of the axle, and the water connections are made to the offside. Enter through the two-piece caravan door to find the control panel and touch-screen controller for the Alde wet central heating to your left.
Lounge
The Vigo we reviewed was fitted with the alternative Rossini fabric scheme, a £199 cost option. Its eye-catching red details combine well with the light-toned cabinets.
The front opening skylight and rooflight flood the area with sun, and there is a good selection of electric illumination for evenings. With no front gas locker taking up space, the centre chest is cleverly recessed into the front wall. This allows you to use the full length of the lounge seats.
Snacks or elevenses can be served on the chest’s pull-out flap - the folding-leaf table can be brought into play at mealtimes.
To sum up, the opening skylight and rooflight combo, as well as the recessed front chest, are the lounge’s standout features.
Kitchen
The footprint of the offside gas locker has necessitated a smart circular sink with a storage unit underneath. To the right, at a slightly lower level, you’ll find a dual-fuel hob, which sits above a separate oven and grill.
A cupboard is situated between the sink and cooker, and a run of overhead lockers with frosted fronts look down on an ample worktop. On the opposite side, there’s a double-door fridge/freezer with a microwave above it.
Washroom
Enter through a sliding door to find a cassette toilet on the offside, with a circular shower at the opposite end. Between them there’s a vanity unit and an oval basin, with a long window at head height.
There are also four very handy hooks, ideal for bathrobes and towels, fixed to the washroom wall, above the heated towel rail.
Beds
The transverse island bed is a straight lift from the Cartagena. It measures 1.83m x 1.37m and features the same fillet cushion arrangement to extend the bed. The size of the front double bed is 2.06m x 1.27m.
In the day, you remove the cushion to improve access around the bed to the washroom, reversing the process at night.
Storage
Although the opening skylight robs the lounge of two overhead lockers, there are still numerous storage options in the Bailey Unicorn II Vigo. Top of the list is the cavernous fixed bed box, but there are also the offside front seat box, roof-level lockers, drawers, wardrobes and cupboards.
Smart under-sink storage and a laundry basket are two thoughtful additions to the kitchen.
Technical specs
Berth 4
MiRO 1344kg
Payload 154kg
MTPLM 1498kg
Interior length 5.68m
Shipping length 7.341m
Width 2.28m
Height 2.61m
Awning size 1045cm
Verdict
In common with much of the great British caravanning public, we really rate the Bailey Unicorn II range. The Vigo should consolidate its success, offering a very desirable layout at a specification and price that takes the fight to Bailey’s rivals.
Conclusion
PROS
An excellent layout
A keen launch price
Premium quality
16 сен 2024
