Bravo, Bravo!
Nova has extended its range of vans for 2016 with this new Bravo coming in a step above the entry level Metrolink. The Bravo range starts with an impressive list of standard features and has plenty of options at a price that will entice vanners into the market place.
Nova Caravans are celebrating their 10th birthday in 2016 which is something they are very proud of. Growing from a small factory initially, Nova now sport a huge purpose built factory, employing about 80 people who turn out a smart range of vans from the entry level Metrolink through to the tough off-road Terra Sportz.
The line-up of vans for the 2016 year was launched at Werribee Mansion late in 2015. These vans are now doing the show circuit and there’s been plenty of excitement from Nova as well as people out there in caravan land looking for a quality, affordable van, that is smart looking and practical.
Nova’s new Bravo certainly fits the bill for smart looking and is also very practical. There are six layouts available that range in size from 16ft 6 inches through to 18ft 6inches. Our review model is the larger 18ft 6inch unit. The body is built around 6-inch Duragal chassis and features a meranti timber frame and aluminium cladding which has some groovy decals to make the Bravo stand out in a crowd. The boys at Nova have also fitted a new plastic moulded front, adding a different look to the front of the van.
Mechanically speaking, our Review Bravo features a tandem load sharing leaf spring suspension system, 10-inch electric brakes and AL-KO ESC. Fifteen inch alloy rims and tyres keep the Bravo rolling on-road while the rear bar houses the spare wheel.
Bolted to the chassis are twin 9kg gas bottles, an A-frame mounted tap, stabilising legs and two 95 litre water tanks with guards. The underneath is neat and typical of Nova’s work.
There is a full width gal boot plus a small tool boot, adding essential external storage space. Around the body are plenty of Dometic windows, a picnic table, awning, door light grab handle, an external speaker and LED lights fitted around the body. Up on the roof is a Cormorant reverse cycle AC unit as well as wiring for solar.
Overall the exterior represents a tried and true package that will work for years of touring and is functional to boot. I liked the overall look of the van with the decals adding to the aesthetics of the body shape.
The entrance to the van is via a triple lock door mounted towards the back of the Bravo. On the right once through the door is a full width ensuite across the back of the van. This neat room offers a swivel toilet, washing machine and a good sized shower. The contrast of dark cupboards, white walls and beige trim looks good and there’s reasonable storage as well. I liked the practical layout of the area which offers good bench space for users as well as a full width mirror for grooming which creates the illusion of more space.
Moving into the centre of the Bravo the colour contrasts match the ensuite, offering a smooth looking interior. The L-shaped dinette is on the passenger side of the van and offers comfortable seating for four. There is storage under the seats as well as in overhead cupboards.
Opposite this dinette is the kitchen. This is not a huge space within the van however it still encompasses a gas electric stove/grill with a stainless steel rangehood, slide-out pantry and a deep sink with flick mixer and water filter system. The microwave and clock are located above the sink while a large 184 litre Thetford fridge is located between the kitchen and the master bedroom.
Located at the front of the van is a queen sized bed which is mounted island style off the front wall in the centre of the van. There are robes either side of the bed as well as overhead cupboards, both offering good storage. There are also corner cupboards at the foot of the bed on the sidewalls and under the bed is yet more storage. This layout is practical and again in keeping with Nova’s policy of smart looking and easy to use.
Other interior features include a battery and electrical system located under the bed, a hatch in the dining area roof, LED lighting throughout and an entertainment system including a flat screen telly. I have to admit I like the practical layout of the interior. The space is light and bright and it has all the good gear for touring.
On The Road
We hauled the Bravo around some steep winding roads, on smooth bitumen and some very ordinary sections of black top, all of which provided a good test of how well this van is balanced for touring.
The proven load sharing roller-rocker suspension works well and with the AL-KO ESC system, as the driver, I know it will not step out or get out of control on-road. The Bravo is well balanced, sat very well on the back of the Cruiser and looks pretty groovy to boot.
Conclusion
I liked the Bravo across the board. It’s a time proven layout that is finished off neatly and is very practical for the end user. I liked the contrast of colours used inside the van and the decaling on the outside does make a statement. Overall with a price tag ranging from just over 55 Gs upwards, the Bravo offers good value for money.
Specifications
Manufacturer: Nova Caravans
Model: Bravo
Length: 5.69m (18ft 6in)
Width: 2.40m (7ft 9in)
Tare weight: 2114kg
Ball weight: 211kg
Price: The Bravo range ranges from $55,500 upwards plus on road costs
Find Out More
Nova Caravans
46 Metrolink Circuit, Campbellfield Vic 3061
03 9930 0900