A new model catering for the 2500kg market, the JB Gator can be pulled by some of the most frequently-bought 4X4s on the road. Good value and lightweight, it is carving itself out a respectable slice of the RV market.
Clearly JB had a few things in mind when building this van, but above all was the desire to produce something which caters for the 2,500kg market.
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UNDERNEATH
Bearing in mind that this off-roader prides itself on its lightness and ability to be pulled by something like a Prado, we thought it necessary to just jump underneath and get to grips with the mechanical workings.
From a fully independent Cruise-Master quad shock suspension setup, which keeps the van stable off-road, to the 6in and 4in supa-gal A-frame and chassis (using 3.2mm thick, quality Australian tube steel), the Gator is definitely built with durability and toughness in mind.
On top, the Gator carries two 60L and an additional 90L water tank, so getting off-grid and away from civilisation for extended periods isn’t an issue. Digital gauges inside help you to keep a keen eye on water levels too, and we found a mint little gas/electric hot water system tucked up in there too!
On the corners there are four drop-down stabiliser legs, the D035 off-road hitch setup at the front, and off the back there is a three-arm rear bumper allowing for the weight of the spare rear tyre (and a great leaning post for yarns with a stubbie in hand).
All of this rides on the 265/75R16 MPC tyres wrapped around 16in Trooper Red alloy wheels.
Inside
The very first thing you notice as you step foot inside is the quality of the craftsmanship that has gone into producing this van, from the lounge and table in the living area through to all of the corner finishings.
Starting in the sleeping quarters, you’ll find a premium full-size innerspring mattress, and dual cupboard and bedside table setups. Overhead is the near silent Ibis reverse cycle air-con unit, and LED downlights throughout. As a standard addition to the LED lighting, JB has included four LED reading lamps over both the bed and the lounge area for the lazy afternoons tucked away with a good book.
Moving into the kitchen you’ll find quality appliances, including a Swift gas cook-top and range hood, full size sink, and plenty of cupboard and bench space. The 190L Waeco by Dometic fridge/freezer gives plenty of room for the afternoon happy hour, and food for those extended trips off the beaten track. Also as standard is the Sphere 25L microwave, as is the JVC DVD / Radio Receiver, 24in LED TV and an RCA connector from the DVD player to the outside entertainment hatch so you can run the TV outside.
OUTSIDE
Up the front you’ll find dual 9kg gas bottle holders, and 20L jerry can holders, all protected by the mesh stone deflector as standard. There is also black checker plate running 600mm up the sides of the body as added protection should any wayward stones make it past the deflector.
Quality lighting keeps the van well lit at night, while the LED grab handle with easy-to-find switch is a solid addition for when happy hour at someone else’s van goes into the night.
A premium awning is included at sale price and covers the side of the van well in more inclement weather. Fully open-out windows give more than adequate lighting to the inside.
There is a full-width storage compartment toward the front of the van, and an entertainment hatch which includes 12V, 240V, and TV antenna ports for running the TV or projector/white sheet outside. (Hot tip: a 240V projector and a white sheet on the van makes for great viewing of the footy when away on those long trips – because who else do you know with a 100in TV in their van?
VERDICT
Overall a very solid van with some standard inclusions you’d expect as optional extras. For a relatively new player, JB has come out swinging, instantly giving the bigger guys a run for their money. Absolutely worth a look if you’re looking for a van around the 2,500kg mark, and with some solid off-road ability.
