Setting up camp after a long drive should never feel like a chore. That’s why I am always looking for gear that saves time and effort. I just finished putting the Kings Grand Tourer Lite Roof Top Tent through its paces.
The good
- Low 180 mm external height
- Set up time is only 25 seconds
- Total weight is a manageable 70 kg
- PU5000mm ripstop canvas
- Includes large 13-inch tablet pocket
The not-so-good
- Telescopic ladder is heavy
- Requires sturdy roof rack
- Only available in one color
This hard-shell unit promises both speed and a low profile on your 4WD. It aims to make overnight stops simple and hassle-free. Let’s dive into the details of this popular roof tent. I want to see if it truly delivers on those big promises.
What You’re Getting
A low-profile hard-shell rooftop tent featuring a quick 25-second setup and superior waterproofing, complete with an internal storage pocket accessory for organisation and media viewing.
Quick Specs
If you’re ready to dive into the details, here are the key specs for this product. The table below gives you a clear and quick overview of everything you need to know.
| Spec | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | Adventure Kings |
| External Height (Packed) | 180 mm |
| Weight (w/ ladder & hardware) | 70 kg |
| Canvas Material | 180GSM, PU5000mm ripstop polycotton |
| Shell Material | Extruded aluminium honeycomb panel system |
| Setup Time | ~25 seconds (one person) |
| Water Ingress Protection | Four-stage automotive grade sealing |
| Storage Pocket Feature | Clear-faced 13-inch tablet pocket |
First impressions
The Grand Tourer Lite looks incredibly sleek sitting on the roof. Its external height measures only 180 mm. This low profile is seriously impressive. It keeps the roofline tidy and reduces drag while driving. The dark hard shell looks modern and tough right out of the box.
I appreciate how custom-designed the external frame feels. It is made from an aluminium honeycomb panel system. The texture of the shell suggests real durability. I am noticing zero external rivet or bolt joints on the surface. That smooth look is a nice touch. I can already tell this design feature will help keep water out. The heavy-duty handle is also easy to use. Everything about the Lite gives off a premium, ready-for-anything vibe. This tent is certainly a head-turner on the road.
Materials & Build Quality
The Kings Grand Tourer Lite is built for serious weather. It features a hard shell made from the aluminium honeycomb panel system. This system keeps the strength high without adding unnecessary weight. The low profile itself is a testament to smart engineering.
Inside the shell, the tent material is waterproof 180GSM ripstop polycotton canvas. It has a PU5000mm rating, which is fantastic for heavy rain. The most significant feature is the four-stage water ingress protection system. This layering truly seals the deal against dust and rain. Firstly, a rubber pinch weld seal acts like a barrier. An extruded aluminium custom shape then blocks any water that sneaks past. Finally, all joints are sealed with an automotive-grade polyurethane sealant. It’s a design that feels built to last for many seasons.
Ergonomics & Weight
Considering its size and features, the 70 kg total weight is quite manageable. This includes all the mounting hardware and the telescopic ladder. The low 180 mm external height improves vehicle dynamics and wind resistance. This means less fuel consumption during long trips, which is always a bonus. It also maximizes rooftop clearance for tighter tracks.
But the best ergonomic feature is the setup time. You can set up the tent with just one person in about 25 seconds. I simply pop the latches open. Then I give the heavy-duty handle a light push. The external gas struts immediately take over the heavy lifting. This truly saves effort and time. Packing down is just as easy, making quick stops a breeze.
I also love the included genuine Grand Tourer Internal Storage Pocket. This is a cracking accessory that adds heaps of organized storage. It simply attaches right to the internal ceiling carpet. It offers six individual pockets for phones, wallets, and jewellery. Best of all, it has a large clear-faced pocket. This pocket fits a tablet up to 13 cm in size. I imagine watching a movie to fall asleep, and that is just awesome.
Performance & Features
The key performance metric here is speed. The 25-second setup time changes how I approach long drives. I don’t feel hesitant to pull over for a quick overnight stop anymore. The gas struts work flawlessly every single time. It springs open smoothly and quickly.
Its weatherproofing is also a top feature. The PU5000mm ripstop canvas handles the strongest downpours I encounter. The four-stage sealing system performs perfectly. I find the interior stays completely dry and dust-free. This reliability is the most important part of any good roof tent. The absence of external rivets reduces potential points of failure.
The included storage pocket is a huge advantage for organisation. It keeps the clutter off the floor and right where I need it. Using the clear pocket for media viewing is a real stroke of genius. It turns the interior into a mini cinema when I want it. The thick 280GSM ripstop canvas of the pocket suggests that it will last for ages. This tent performs well and offers useful, clever features.
Gear That Complements Your Camping Setup
A hard-shell tent like this works best when paired with solid foundations. Before you hit the tracks, consider checking out our reviews on robust 4WD Storage systems. Proper organisation makes the inside of your tent even better. You might also want to look at our thoughts on Off-Grid Power solutions.
This gear ensures you can charge that 13-inch tablet you’re using inside your tent. Additionally, reliable 4WD Navigation gear is essential for finding those perfect remote campsites. Having the right Rooftop Tents setup is only part of the adventure.
This hard-shell rooftop tent offers impressive strength and a remarkably fast setup, making it ideal for quick overnight stops. The low profile minimizes drag and maximizes rooftop clearance. The included storage pocket is a fantastic addition for keeping essential items organised and secure inside the tent.
The Kings Grand Tourer Lite is a hard-shell tent that prioritises speed and weather resistance. Its low 180 mm profile helps you get to more places on the track. The rapid 25-second setup is a game-changer for quick overnighters. Its four-stage water sealing gives you peace of mind in any weather. The included storage pocket truly enhances the camping experience. It’s a durable and well-designed tent that makes vehicle-based touring easier.
This tent is best for touring enthusiasts who value a low profile and quick setup. It suits anyone doing long distances with frequent overnight stops. The excellent weatherproofing is perfect for tackling unpredictable conditions. It is ideal for one or two people who need minimal fuss.
The performance and build quality justify the investment for serious adventurers. The unique low profile and the incredible speed of setup add genuine value. Considering the durable construction and the useful included storage accessory, it is certainly a worthwhile purchase. It saves time and hassle, which makes the cost easy to swallow.
