Lunar was well known for producing lightweight, very well-equipped tourers, and its ranges regularly appeared on caravanners’ wish lists. One model that was rather niche in design, but still very popular, was the compact Lunar Ariva, a two-berth, end-kitchen tourer with excellent spec.
After its launch in the 1990s, the Ariva rapidly built up a loyal following. It proved the ideal choice for customers wanting to downsize, This was particularly the case with those looking for a van that they could store on their own driveway, avoiding having to pay storage costs, a benefit seen in owning one of the best small caravans.
Used examples of the Ariva are now easy to find on most dealer forecourts, as they have been available for some time.
When buying a used caravan it’s worth shopping around – look out for dealer specials, because many dealerships offered them, adding valuable extras such as alarms and barbecue points.
One very popular special was the Cosmos, which was made for Campbells Caravans.
Model history
By 1995, Lunar had launched the Ariva with the traditional two-berth, end-kitchen layout. The initial idea was to produce a compact, well-equipped, lightweight caravan for couples.
However, in 1996, the Ariva gained a new four-berth sibling, offering lightweight touring for smaller families; although sales were steady, by 1999, it had been dropped. Lunar decided to focus on the better-selling two-berth layout.
The Lunar Ariva had a front lounge that could be made up into a double bed or two singles. It had a small central dresser, with the washroom and wardrobe opposite, and that end kitchen had a lot to offer in a van of this size.
By 2016 the profile had been changed, and it now mirrored that of the 2012 Quasar. But in general, the Ariva was seen as a tourer that needed no major changes – folk loved it as it was.
Lunar also exported some to Japan in the late 1990s.
For 2016, a 4kW Truma heater was fitted, and new soft furnishings. A microwave, full oven, dual-fuel hob, TV aerial and Dometic fridge were all part of the Ariva’s great spec.
Price checker
Shop around and you’ll find there are good deals to be had, but do look very carefully at the condition – some models might be priced more cheaply because of damp problems.
However, a good one like the model reviewed here can be had at prices ranging from £10,995 to £11,495. In particular, look out for dealer specials – and for awnings being included on any private sales – which you might find at around £10,195.
Alternative models
If you have a bit more cash, you could take a look at the 2016 Adria Altea 362, a two-berth, end-kitchen layout with good kit and a more modern interior. You’ll need to search for these, as they don’t come up for sale often, but if you spot one, look for prices around £12,495.
Otherwise, try the 2017 Swift Basecamp; first-generation vans are priced at £15,495 to £16,495 for a two-berth.
What to check for
- Dents on side panels
- Cracking on rear panels
- Sponginess in floors
- Signs of damp in washroom corners and ceiling
- Damp in overhead lockers
- Damage to alloys and tyres
- Peeling in furniture edging
Verdict
The very affordable Ariva has proved a popular used buy over the years, and good ones are snapped up. Towable by most small tow cars, it is a great choice for couples on tour.
It is, as always, important to do the usual checks, especially for signs of water ingress.
The standard Ariva was very well equipped, but keep an eye out for dealer specials, too.
Technical spec
- Berths: 2
- MiRO: 840kg
- Payload: 125kg
- MTPLM: 965kg
- Internal length: 3.66m
- Width: 2.01m
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