By 1980, Lunar had become known for lightweight tourers that were both practical and extremely comfortable.

The Quasar was one of the most popular for caravanners seeking value for money in a lightweight caravan.

In 2014 the line-up gained a smart new profile: more modern and distinctive. The interiors remained traditional, while the excellent level of spec included blown-air heating, a radio, oven and a dual-fuel hob, as well as a Status TV aerial and microwave. The Quasar was also a favoured base for dealer specials, such as the Cosmos and the Ultima.

You can get more pre-owned tourer inspiration in our guide to the best used caravans too.

Model history

When Lunar decided to add a family caravan layout to the range, the Quasar was top choice.

However, it had to retain its light weight, while still coming well equipped, and it needed fixed bunk beds, too.

For the 2009 season, Lunar added a new six berth caravan, the 546. This single-axle family model provided the increasingly popular side fixed bunks, with a rear dinette, central kitchen and washroom, and front lounge.

One initial problem with the 546, however, was the shortened lounge, which couldn’t be used as twin single beds. But by 2010, this had been rectified.

The lounge area of the Lunar Quasar
Comfortable settees make up a double using pull-out slats

The triple bunk beds on the rear offside each had their own window, while the side dinette could be made into a bed and was the ideal space for children. The 2014 models were treated to the new-look Lunar profile – well worth the extra cash if your budget will stretch to it.

The dinette in the van
Dinette makes up an extra bed if needed, and is ideal space for the children, too

Also for 2014, a new Dometic fridge was added, with a 4kW Truma heater, upgraded interior fittings, LED spots, and extra room in the front gas locker.

Price checker

Shop around for bargains, and as usual, keep an eye out for any problems, repairs and so on.

We spotted similar 2014 models going for £12,995 in a private sale and £14,995 from a dealership, but you’ll need to be quick off the mark, because these tourers tend to sell quickly, owing to their light weight and family-friendly layouts.

For the rest of the range, you can expect to pay:

  •  462 £13,495-£13,995
  •  524 £12,495-£12,995
  •  525 £13,995-£14,895
  •  534 £13,995-£14,795
  •  544 £13,565-£14,695
  •  554 £12,899-£13,795
  •  564 £12,995-£13,995

Alternative models

In 2014, Coachman replaced the Amara with the Vision, and the 580/5 came with fixed bunks and a good spec. It was heavier, but this comfortable family tourer had fixed bunks; so if the sixth berth isn’t essential, the Vision is a good alternative at around £14,595.

The 2014 Coachman Vision 580/5
The 2014 Coachman Vision 580/5

Otherwise, the Adria 542DK Severn was a similar lightweight tourer, but with less spec. The six-berth Adria was great value – expect prices around £14,995 for a good 2015 model.

What to check for:

  • Dents in side panels
  • Snug-fitting lid on gas locker
  • Cracking in rear panels
  • Sponginess in floors
  • Damp in back panel, ceiling, washroom and overhead lockers
  • Functioning microwave
  • Scratching or other signs of damage to kitchen sink

Our guide to the pre-owned caravan interior checks to carry out will also talk you through some of the key points to consider.

Verdict

The Quasar is a superb tourer: lightweight, well equipped and with family-sized storage.

Do the usual checks and in particular, find out if the van has had any repair work done, and inspect carefully for signs of problems with damp.

All in all, the 546 is a great family tourer, and these days, its light weight makes it a good choice if your car is lighter, with restricted towing limits.

The 546 remains a popular option for families, so they do tend to be snapped up quickly.

  • Take a look at our best family caravan guide to see our round-up of the standout latest releases on the market

Technical spec:

  • Berths: 6
  • MiRO: 1230kg
  • Payload: 165kg
  • MTPLM: 1395kg
  • Internal length: 5.78m
  • Width: 2.20m

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