Australia’s most popular pop-tops, Jayco’s Freedom models, have been given more than just a makeover for 2005 and despite the dramatic overhaul the brand name was retained, especially as Jayco celebrates its 30th anniversary in RV manufacturing.

The RV industry is fond of proclaiming that RV ownership gives Australians the “freedom to go where you want to, when you want to” hence the retention of the Freedom name.

Proof of the Freedom’s acceptance in the market place was that it was the most popular towing RV model and dominated sales at the Adelaide, Perth, Sydney and Melbourne Caravan Shows, with a solid recognition as offering great value-for-money.

The most significant changes in the 2005 Freedoms are both structural. Jayco’s “Tough Frame” introduced into its top-of-the-range Heritage models last year is now used in the construction of all Freedoms. The Tough-Frame includes welded tubular aluminium (25mm by 25mm) framework that is also used around doors and windows, providing a stronger, long—life frame for the superstructure.

Visually the other significant structural change is the use of the Jayco fibreglass front and rear. The smooth, sheer side walls are also upgraded and in line with the kind of walls found on the Heritage range.

New external graphics and the use of black concealed framed windows also give Freedoms a very modern automotive-styling, which is also enhanced by stylish graphics.

Jayco has also continued to add value-for-money and to keep the Freedoms well and truly ahead of competitors the décor is improved by using new cushion and curtain fabrics and colours and new laminex, mostly either in grey or beige.

Brushed aluminium appliances are also being introduced into the Freedoms, and that includes the 12-volt range hood.

All Freedoms are built on the tough, well-proven galvanised Millennium chassis, used across all models and seat construction also involves aluminium framing that provides extra strength and durability for the seats.

The finish of the furniture is exceptional, and it is sturdy and hard wearing, as all cabinet fronts are screwed rather than stapled. Solid timber doors are gloss finished and highly effective positive door catches secure cupboards when pop-tops are under tow. Lift up double and single beds have orthopaedic slats to improve sleeping posture.

A 12/240 volt lighting system gives generous lighting on either 240 volt or 12 volt supply. The fused power converter supplies safe 12 volt power from 240 mains and the unit also has a built in trickle battery charger for an auxiliary battery.

The brushed aluminium four burner Newhome griller has the safety a 12-volt ignition with safety cutoff. One burner is a 240-volt electric element so gas can be conserved at a caravan park’s powered site. A Dometic RM2330 three-way fridge is standard.