Review: Regent Monarch

The Regent Monarch is a well-equipped van with just about everything you need for long term touring.

VALUE FOR MONEY

The Monarch comes in at the upper end of this price bracket, but it does offer all the features you need to get out on the road, plus a bit of rough road-ability.

TOWABILITY

There was no undue sway or pitching with this van, and it tracked well during turns.

SETTING UP AND HITCHING UP

The Monarch has the usual centre jockey wheel arrangement although, fitting a WDH would be a little compromised, as there’s not much A-frame space.

SUITABILITY FOR INTENDED TOURING

While the ‘rough-road’ suspension system adds a bit of cred to this van, it’s not a full offroad van and all its features point to it being a capable on-road tourer. 

LAYOUT

Given its external length, the Monarch offers quite a spacious layout and, with the exception of the space around the bed, is generally well-proportioned. It’s a sensible, comfortable layout for two people, and it has great external storage.

QUALITY OF FINISH

The Monarch’s general finish is good but there were a few areas, such as the trim, which could have been a bit neater. The glossy overhead locker doors looked quite striking. The judges were divided on the faux snakeskin trim, but you could always opt out of that.

BUILD QUALITY

The quality of the build is right up there, and items such as piano hinges on all doors and quality fittings like doors and windows were what you’d expect in a van at this price point.

CREATURE COMFORTS

The Monarch has them all, including a top-loading washing machine, LCD water level monitor, magazine rack, towel rails and contemporary wash basin.

INNOVATION

There is nothing radically different about the Monarch, with the exception of the new Vehicle Components Country Road Suspension and twin external storage areas.

X-FACTOR

First impressions are important. The Monarch makes a very good one with its glossy lower waist and the stylish interior you notice when you step into the van.

THE CARAVAN WORLD VERDICT

There’s no doubt the Regent Monarch is a well-equipped van with just about everything you need for long term touring. Except, of course, for a couple of occupants – so what are you waiting for?

To discover the Regent Monarch final score be sure to check out Caravan World Issue 521. Why not subscribe today!