Stay across the week’s key developments in caravans, RVs and touring. Each episode delivers a concise, trustworthy wrap of industry headlines, regulation updates, safety recalls, tech and manufacturing moves, dealer activity and travel trends from reputable Australian sources. Get plain English context and why it matters takeaways to help you stay informed and plan with confidence. No fluff - just a dependable weekly brief you can count on, wherever the road takes you.
This Week:
This week: The RBA raised the cash rate to about 3.85%, lifting variable rates and tightening borrowing power. Big US-style pickups stay expensive due to RHD conversions and local compliance, while mainstream models see small price rises. January sales shifted: China-sourced cars jumped, Toyota volumes dipped on changeovers, jumbo pickups fell, and hybrids grew. Takeaway: stress-test your budget, consider mid-size tow options that meet your caravans weights, and use pre-approval plus multi-lender quotes to move quickly on the right van or tow vehicle.
EPISODE 1232 | Caravan Finance Australia Industry News | Thu, 5th Feb 2026
8 Feb 2026 | Paige Estritori
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Read Full Transcript:
Hello and welcome to Caravan Finance Australia Industry News, Im Paige Estritori, and its Thursday, 5 February 2026.
First up, the RBA — thats the Reserve Bank of Australia — lifted the cash rate by a quarter of a percentage point on Tuesday to about three point eight five per cent. Banks are already moving variable rates, and some expect the next review in May to stay live. If youre shopping for a caravan or tow vehicle, build in slightly higher repayments and stress‑test your budget. A free eligibility check and multi‑lender quote comparison can show whats comfortable before you commit.
Next up, tow‑rig costs. Big US‑style pickups like Ram 1500, F‑150, and Silverado remain pricey here thanks to right‑hand‑drive conversions, local compliance, and higher-spec parts. That pushes drive‑away prices well past one hundred grand, while even mainstream models are seeing incremental rises. If you dont need jumbo towing, consider mid‑size utes or suitable SUVs and match the vans ATM and ball weight carefully. We can help compare secured caravan loans and terms to keep repayments steady.
Meanwhile, Januarys new‑car sales mix flipped. China‑sourced vehicles surged, Toyota volumes dipped on model changeovers, and the jumbo pickup segment fell. Petrol demand eased as hybrids and plug‑ins grew. For buyers, that can mean sharper deals in some segments and longer waits in others. Pre‑approval gives you a clear limit so you can move fast when the right tow vehicle or van appears.
And a quick price pulse: several popular models saw modest list‑price increases this week, including a mainstream ute and family SUVs. Small bumps can shift your total on‑road cost and your borrowing capacity. Update your numbers before you head to the dealer, and use our instant quote comparison to weigh new versus used options side by side.
Thats the wrap. For a fast, simple finance plan and a free eligibility assessment, head to caravan-finance.com.au. Safe travels and see you next week.
The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.
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