Caravan review: Wonderland RV Solara 1806

Wonderland RV has long been highly regarded for its stylish, premium-quality builds. The Aussie brand made its mark with a contemporary spin on timber construction. Now it has embraced sandwich panel composite construction as the way forward.

In brief: 

• Composite body construction
• 18ft couples off-grid rough road tourer
• Lightweight, timberless composite furniture, with a popular and functional layout
• Twin axle, 3495kg ATM

We were pleased to get our hands on the very first of the new generation of vans from Wonderland. This Melbourne-based brand is joining the big players in transitioning to full sandwich panel composite construction. Responding to market demand, this switch marks the end of Wonderland’s highly successful run with its distinctive CNC ‘jigsaw’ ply frame construction method. While the new full sandwich panel builds will be reserved for Wonderland’s most premium models, it will continue to use its aluminium-frame construction method, which it launched in mid-2025, for its mid-spec vans.

Our review van, the Solara 1806, is positioned as a premium couples package with strong offroad credentials and a 12V system that packs plenty of punch for off-grid stays. It’s been optioned up too, with extra goodies bringing the price tag to $164k. Let’s see how it stacks up.

The new Wonderland RV Solara 1806 couples offroader

Composite construction — the Wonderland way

After extensive investigation, Wonderland has selected a European composite panel known as ‘Complite’. Ana Pepa from Wonderland told us, “Europe has led the way with composite panel construction for decades, and we saw it as the best fit for our premium manufacturing philosophy.” The panels are a classic fibreglass skin on both sides with an extruded polystyrene (XPS) core. This configuration is widely used in the Australian RV industry as it optimises a tough exterior skin, structural strength and good insulation properties while keeping weight down.

A one-piece 34mm composite panel is used for the roof, which also wraps around to form the front and rear walls. This is a great way to do it as it eliminates joints, which could be potential leak points. The side walls use 29mm one-piece composite panels with the same XPS core. The 18mm floor is also a one-piece composite panel, but with a honeycomb core for greater strength to carry the weight of furniture and appliances. The floor is secured to the chassis with adhesives and fasteners for maximum strength. This build is fitted with optional aluminium capping, which really looks the part.

Just as timber construction is becoming a thing of the past, we are now seeing the once ubiquitous checkerplate disappearing in the rear-view mirror. The lower sections of the Solara’s composite panel feature a rugged polyurethane coating that withstands stone chips and provides a clean, even finish.

Chassis, suspension and offroad gear

Underneath the composite body is a heavy-duty Australian-made SupaGal steel S&M chassis with textured polyurethane coating. It features a 6in (150mm) A-frame and 4in (100mm) double-boxed steel main rails to increase ground clearance.

Wonderland has opted for Cruisemaster XT independent suspension. It’s the simple, proven, reliable, cost and weight-effective option in the Cruisemaster lineup. Adding Level 3 airbags to the system elevates (literally and figuratively) performance by varying ride height to suit road conditions. Removing air lowers the ride height for improved centre of gravity in normal transit conditions. Adding air increases ride height to improve body ground clearance in slow-going offroad conditions. Furthermore, raising and lowering individual airbags makes it possible to level out a van when parked up on a sloping campsite.

Cruisemaster XT independent suspension

Cruisemaster features throughout the van, including its prodigiously popular DO35 hitch and 12in electric drum brakes. ROH black wheels with Falken Wildpeak AT3W 285/75R16 tyres are both reputable brands to complete the package.

External storage and outdoor living 

The traditional front toolbox, complete with sliders, reveals a premium Engel chest fridge to supplement the internal fridge. In front of the toolbox is a stylish, open-top, three-compartment storage bin. The mid-section houses two 4kg gas bottles, and the sections on either side are ideal for hoses or a bit of firewood. Behind the toolbox in the caravan body is a tunnel boot that runs the full length and also features a shelf to hold smaller items.

Plenty of storage space in the front toolbox

The rear wall has one centrally located spare wheel and some more distinctively styled compartments on either side. The two larger compartments are suited to jerry cans, and the smaller ones for carrying whatever takes your fancy.

The picnic table is very well thought out. It is large enough to serve as a functional working space and also features a recessed compartment behind it that serves as a decent-sized pantry and an access point for the Cruisemaster airbag system. Power points inside the compartment make it easy to plug in the supplied portable induction cooktop. Plus, the table gets bonus points for the hatch still closing up flush with the van wall, unlike the Wonderland RV Amaroo 1806 I reviewed in 2025 that protruded just a little.

The large picnic table doubles as an external kitchen workspace

Speaking of flush, the tinted windows recessed into the wall further enhance the clean lines of the Solara 1806. Entertainment is covered with a Fusion sound system and an external TV bracket/aerial connection point.

Fridge slide in the front toolbox

Interior layout and composite furniture

Wonderland has also embraced timberless composite materials for its furniture construction as a premium option. The key benefits are to eliminate the risk of rotting or swelling in the event of a water leak and to reduce weight. The curious thing is that van builders and end customers tend to see this as an opportunity to add features (weight) somewhere else rather than bring the overall weight down.

Stepping inside the Solara 1806, the interior is well-equipped for comfortable touring. The familiar layout features a front queen-sized bed, a mid-galley, and a rear bathroom. The sleep zone features all the regular storage compartments beside and above the bed we have come to expect from Wonderland.

A familiar, tried-and-true layout with a new touch: two vertically stacked windows for extra natural light and ventilation around the bed

However, the Wonderland team has changed things up a bit by introducing two vertically stacked, smaller windows on either side of the bed. It means you can open the upper windows/blinds for ventilation while keeping the lower ones closed for privacy.

The L-shaped lounge has a more open feel than other dining layouts and makes it easier to access the side of the bed. On the kitchen side, Wonderland has replaced the traditional gas cooktop with a Westinghouse portable induction cooktop. When not in use, the cooker is stored in a drawer, freeing up bench space for meal prep. You can also take the hot plate outside for outdoor cooking.

Mid living with a L-shaped lounge and modern kitchen

The review unit was fitted with a basic NCE 23L microwave, but future models will feature a three-in-one multi-cooker to expand cooking possibilities. A Dometic 224L compressor fridge keeps food at the ready for your culinary endeavours.

I opened up every drawer and cupboard on the galley side and snapped a photo just to show there is a truckload of storage. Soft-touch close is what you would expect from a van of this calibre. And one of the nice little touches is the space dedicated to double rubbish bins so that you can separate general waste and recyclables.

The rear bathroom has a simple and functional layout. Positioning the raised basin in one corner rather than centrally locating it optimises bench space. It also creates the underbench space for a Destination RV 3.5kg front-loading washing machine. A bank of open shelves directly beside the toilet makes everything easily accessible, but some people may prefer doors for a cleaner look.

The rear ensuite with all the essentials

Off-grid power, solar and water capacity

The Solara 1806 really shines (pun intended) with its off-grid capability. Five 200W Arizon solar panels play a big part in the 1000W energy harvesting potential. Energy input is managed through a sophisticated Victron system that integrates dual 50A MPPT (solar), 50A DC charger (car charging) and 120A AC (mains power). All this juice gets sent to a lithium battery bank totalling 400Ah and is available for 240V appliance use through a 3000W inverter.

Plenty of power for off-grid adventures

There’s enough electrical power for the internal appliances. Well, almost — diesel is used to power a combination hot water system/space heater. This is a popular choice among many van builders for supplementing electrical power. And Wonderland still allows for the great Australian tradition of the barbecue — there are two 4kg gas bottles on the A-frame, fed via a bayonet connection, so you can plug in the portable barbecue of your choice.

For more information on calculating your off-grid power requirements, check out our guide here.

Wonderland has upped the water game with a 190L freshwater tank capacity plus another 90L dedicated to drinking water. Grey water catchment comes in at a reasonable 100L. Your water will go further with the inclusion of the Thetford Separation Toilet, which is a non-flushing system.

Weights, towability and vehicle suitability

Wonderland’s 2021 RAM 1500 Laramie had plenty of grunt for hauling the Solara 1806. However, it pays to do your homework with this style of American ute as they tend to have lower payloads than our classic mid-sized utes, such as Ford Rangers and Isuzu D-MAXs. Once you put 300kg plus towball into the ute payload, you're not left with much for everything else. GVM upgrades are often the solution of choice to make American utes legal for a van like the Solara 1806.

The key weights of 3495kg ATM, 2780kg tare and 715kg payload are all typical for a van of this size. The Solara’s water-carrying capacity is slightly higher than typical at 280L (280kg), leaving a payload of 435kg with full tanks. That’s probably still enough for most people. Just keep in mind you don’t always have to travel with the water tanks full if you need a bit more cargo capacity.

The Wonderland RV Solara 1806 pairs well with a good towing ute like a Ford Ranger or Isuzu D-MAX, or in this case a hefty RAM 1500 Laramie

Final thoughts on the Wonderland RV Solara 1806

Driven by customer demand, Wonderland RV has made a significant change, adopting full composite construction while offering aluminium-frame vans as an alternative. Timberless composite furniture construction is now an option, bringing Wonderland in line with the most contemporary builds.

As for the van itself, the new Solara 1806 is a nice size with strong underpinnings, typical weights and plenty of water-carrying capacity. It’s a functional, proven layout with good appliances, and Wonderland always nail the styling. Spreading power across a premium 12V system, with gas for external cooking and diesel for water/space heating, is a smart and efficient way to stay off-grid longer. The price is right for a van of this calibre and is definitely worth being on your short list for a new van.

Measuring up

Pros

• Composite construction outside and in will be welcomed by many buyers
• High-capacity off-grid capability
• Another elegant build by Wonderland RV

Cons

• Some buyers might like to see a traditional gas oven/hotplate
• Adding doors to the bathroom cupboard would create a cleaner look

WONDERLAND RV SOLARA 1806 RATINGS

VALUE FOR MONEY

Premium build and justifiable premium price to match

TOWABILITY

Get yourself a big tow vehicle, and away you go

SUITABILITY FOR INTENDED TOURING

It’s got everything you need for the Big Lap

BUILD QUALITY

Up to Wonderland RV’s usual high standard

LIVEABILITY

It’s all well thought out and functional for easy living

SELF-SUFFICIENCY

Plenty of electrical power, supported with gas and diesel. A non-flush toilet makes your water go further

CUSTOMER CARE

A three-year manufacturer’s warranty combined with a five-year structural warranty is a strong offer

INNOVATION

Wonderland RV has joined the big players with composite construction

X-FACTOR

Just a great all-round package, that ticks a lot of boxes

WONDERLAND RV SOLARA 1806 SPECS

WEIGHTS AND MEASURES

EXTERNAL

INTERNAL

Wonderland RV Solara 1806 price from $157,499

OPTIONS FITTED

• 
  
• Aluminium capping
• Lightweight timberless composite furniture
• Rear aluminium jerry can holders/storage tubs
• Solid stone-look benchtops

Wonderland RV Solara 1806 price as shown $164,458

MORE INFORMATION

Wonderland RV

46 Lara Way

Campbellfield Vic 3061

P: 03 8692 0032

E: sales@wonderlandrv.com.au

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