Swag Gen 6 SCT16: Australia's Best Hybrids 2024 presented by Tough Dog 4WD Suspension

For the lucky last hybrid in our wrap-up of the entrants at the first-ever Australia's Best Hybrids presented by Tough Dog 4WD Suspension, we're taking a look at Swag Off-Road Campers Gen 6 SCT16.

As we've seen in the previous nine entrants, hybrids come in all shapes and sizes. But they have some key characteristics that make them sit in their own category between traditional caravans and camper trailers.

There's no official definition of what makes a hybrid, but when it came to the Australia's Best Hybrids competition five typical factors were nominated:

1. Size (compact length, width and height)
2. Weight (under 2500kg)
3. Focus on external living (external kitchen and fridge)
4. Construction method (lack of canvas walls)
5. Focus on offroad driving capability (single axle and offroad suspension)

To find out more about the Australia's Best Hybrids (ABH) 2024 event and our definition of what makes a hybrid, click this link.

But now into the good stuff — a bite size review with all the standout features the ABH judges noted about the Swag Gen 6 SCT16.

Leading the way for imported hybrids offering frameless composite construction, the Swag Gen 6 SCT16 boasts a swag of features that will appeal to buyers who like their creature comforts.

Build quality

The Swag Gen 6 SCT16 is a traditional pop-top hybrid built in China and finished locally. It features a modern frameless body method with timber-free composite panelling and a honeycomb floor that sits on a heavy-duty galvanised chassis.

The fit-out is completed locally with quality appliances and upgrades to the suspension, including Monroe shocks and Japanese wheel bearings. Everything under the Gen 6 SCT16 is protected from damage, and weight distribution has been well-considered.

Appliances like the Truma UltraRapid HWS, EvaKool fridge and Sirocco fans all point to a quest for quality and a durability across rugged roads. The interior fit-out is neat and well-finished, and the way the lounge converts from the bed end is an inspired feature.

Liveability

Inside, the bed is king sized and lifts up to create a second bench seat for more seating around the table and overall spacious feel. The internal kitchen has plenty of bench space and there is good storage throughout.

The external kitchen is spaced nicely so that there’s plenty of room between it and the external slide-out 75L EvaKool fridge. It has a four-burner gas stove, while inside you can choose between a two-burner gas hob or an induction cooktop. There is a small 50L internal fridge with a door that opens both ways which is a nice touch.

The pop-top roof is easy to lift due to the lightweight composite panel, which many will appreciate.

The full-width ensuite is decently spacious and has a separate shower with a ceiling mounted shower rose perfect for anyone over 1.4m tall.

There are ample storage options inside and out, so with a 650kg payload, you should be able to take all you need for extended travel.

Self-sufficiency

The power system onboard is designed for ease of use and allows for four to six days off-grid, depending on water use. The two 150W solar panels power the two 150Ah lithium batteries, which are managed by the Projecta BMS with Bluetooth technology.

Paired with the 2000W inverter that comes standard, this will keep the fridge and the lights running pretty comfortably. If you want a bit more grunt in your system to run some 240V appliances, there is the option to add an extra lithium battery.

There’s two 100L freshwater tanks and a 120L grey water tank. Two 9kg gas bottles take care of the cooking and hot water.

Towability

The Swag’s compact width (2.23m / 7ft 4in) and towing height (2.65m / 8ft 8in) are handy along narrow bush tracks and when travelling at speed. And the Gen 6 SCT16 was also a little better than some other contenders at ABH when it came to weight, with an ATM of 2800kg and tare mass of 2150kg.

When towing, the Ford Ranger proved to be an excellent vehicle, with plenty of power from the turbo diesel for all towing conditions. Following on behind, the Gen 6 SCT16 tracked along very nicely. The usual snatching and jerking happened under tow but nothing of note that might cause alarm. As a towing proposition, the Gen 6 SCT16 is a good package.

Value for money

At $74,535 as displayed, the Swag Gen 6 SCT16 was one of the more expensive of the Chinese-origin hybrids although it does have an extensive list of standard inclusion items. But when it comes to value for money, also consider the unseen items, like the frameless composite construction method and honeycomb floor. These materials help maintain the light weight (just 2150kg when empty), meaning you may not need to upgrade to a bigger tow vehicle.

You’ll also see many familiar brand names in the Swag hybrid, including NSK wheel bearings, Monroe shocks, Cruisemaster DO35 hitch, Projecta BMS and more.

For more information head to the Swag Off-Road Campers website.

And to read the full review of the Swag Off-Road Campers Gen 6 SCT16 by the Australia's Best Hybrids 2024 presented by Tough Dog 4WD Suspension judges, head here.

Watch the Swag Gen 6 SCT16 review here:

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