The Black Series HQ Lineup Explained
Black Series makes four main hybrid camper models in the HQ range: the HQ12, HQ15, HQ17, and HQ19. All four share the same off-road DNA — galvanised chassis, independent suspension, AL-KO or Cruisemaster running gear, and the signature pop-top or slide-out roof design. But they're meaningfully different in living space, features, and what kind of touring they suit best.
This guide breaks down the differences so you can choose the right model without second-guessing it later.
At a Glance: HQ12 vs HQ15 vs HQ17 vs HQ19
| Feature | HQ12 | HQ15 | HQ17 | HQ19 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Body length (approx.) | 12ft | 15ft | 17ft | 19ft |
| Sleeping capacity | 2 | 2–3 | 2–4 | 2–5 |
| Fresh water tank | 2 × 60L | 2 × 80L | 2 × 95L | 2 × 115L |
| Grey water tank | 80L | 95L | 115L | 115L |
| Black tank | No | No | Optional | Yes |
| Shower | External only | Internal | Internal + external | Internal + external |
| Toilet | Portable cassette | Cassette | Separate ensuite | Separate ensuite |
| Fridge (standard) | Dometic 93L | Dometic 130L | Dometic 148L | Dometic 185L |
| Dinette (converts to bed) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Solar (standard) | 200W | 200W | 200W | 200W |
| Battery (standard) | 2 × 100Ah AGM | 2 × 100Ah AGM | 2 × 100Ah AGM | 2 × 100Ah AGM |
| ATM (approx.) | ~2,800kg | ~3,200kg | ~3,500kg | ~3,800kg |
Note: Specifications vary by year model and build variant. Always check the current Black Series spec sheet for exact figures.
HQ12: The Compact Adventurer
The HQ12 is Black Series' smallest offering and the one most suited to solo travellers or couples who prioritise manoeuvrability over space. It tows easily behind a mid-size 4WD (Land Cruiser Prado, Ford Ranger, Hilux) without needing a heavy-duty vehicle.
What it does well: The HQ12 fits through tracks that would be uncomfortable for larger models. With a 2,800kg ATM it's light enough for most medium 4WDs. The fold-out dining area doubles as a double bed, and the pop-top gives standing room when set up. Water capacity (2 × 60L) is enough for 5–7 days if you're conservative.
Where it falls short: There's no internal shower (external shower only), toilet accommodation is a portable cassette rather than a built-in, and the fridge at 93L is adequate for two but tight for three nights-plus stocking. Those wanting ensuite facilities should look at the HQ17 or above.
Best for: Couples doing remote off-road touring where track width is a consideration. Solo adventurers who want a serious off-road rig without the footprint of a larger caravan.
HQ15: The Sweet Spot
The HQ15 is the most popular model in the HQ range for a reason. It adds an internal shower and cassette toilet, meaningfully larger tanks, and a bigger fridge — while remaining towable behind a full-size 4WD (Land Cruiser 200, Prado 150, Patrol Y62) without the weight concerns of the HQ17 or HQ19.
What it does well: The internal shower is the standout upgrade over the HQ12. It also comes with a larger 130L Dometic fridge, 160L of fresh water capacity (2 × 80L), and a more comfortable dinette setup. The HQ15 feels like a proper home on wheels without the bulk of the HQ17.
Where it falls short: The toilet and shower are in the same space (wet bathroom arrangement), which means no dedicated dry ensuite. If a separate shower/toilet is important to you, the HQ17 is the next step up. Also still no blackwater system — grey water management is a consideration for extended trips.
Best for: Couples who want self-contained camping without the size and cost of the larger models. The HQ15 hits the balance of capability, livability, and towing weight better than anything else in the range.
HQ17: The Serious Tourer
The HQ17 is where Black Series builds in the features that serious long-term tourers need: a separate ensuite (shower and toilet in a dedicated space, separate from the kitchen/living area), dual 95L tanks for genuinely long-range capability, and a 148L fridge that handles a couple for a week-plus without restocking.
What it does well: The separate ensuite is the HQ17's headline feature — and it matters on longer trips. The toilet area is properly separated from the main living space. Tanks are large enough for remote travel (4+ days off-grid for two people with normal usage). An optional black tank is available on the HQ17, which is increasingly required for national parks in Australia. Internal and external shower options provide flexibility.
Where it falls short: At ~3,500kg ATM, the HQ17 requires a legitimate tow vehicle — a Land Cruiser 200 Series, Patrol, Fortuner, or similar heavy-duty 4WD. Not all LC200s or Y62 Patrols are set up for this — check your tow vehicle's towing capacity and GVM. It's also wider and longer than the HQ15, which matters in tight campsites and on narrow tracks.
Best for: Couples or small families doing extended trips (2+ weeks) who want ensuite facilities and serious off-grid capability. The HQ17 is the model we recommend most often for buyers doing serious remote touring.
HQ19: The Family Flagship
The HQ19 is the largest and most specced model in the range. It adds a dedicated bunk area that genuinely sleeps children, the largest fridge in the lineup (185L), the biggest tanks, and a standard blackwater system. It's designed for families doing extended trips.
What it does well: The HQ19 has sleeping for 5 — the main bed, a convertible dinette bed, and the rear bunk. This makes it a genuine family camper rather than a couple's rig. The 185L fridge makes weekly shopping trips viable for a family of four. Largest fresh water capacity in the range (2 × 115L) means longer off-grid capability. Standard blackwater gives access to national parks requiring it.
Where it falls short: The HQ19 is heavy (~3,800kg ATM) and requires a serious tow vehicle (Land Cruiser 79 series, 200 series with upgraded suspension, Patrol, or similar). It's also the most expensive model and the least nimble on tight tracks. Not suitable for routes where track width or clearance is a concern.
Best for: Families with children who want the camping lifestyle without compromising on space or facilities. If you're taking kids on extended trips and want a self-contained setup with separate sleeping areas, the HQ19 is the right choice.
Which HQ Should You Buy?
Couples doing remote off-road touring on tight budgets or tight tracks: HQ12 or HQ15
Couples who want real ensuite facilities for extended trips: HQ17 — it's our most-recommended model for serious tourers
Families with kids who need sleeping space: HQ19
Budget and tow vehicle capacity: Work backwards from your tow vehicle. If your 4WD has a 3,500kg tow rating, the HQ17 is the largest you should consider. If it's rated to 3,000kg, the HQ15 is your ceiling. Always factor in tow ball mass (typically 10% of ATM) and check your vehicle's GVM before deciding.
Upgrading Your HQ: Parts and Accessories
Regardless of which HQ model you choose, the same upgrades make every model more capable off-grid:
Lithium battery upgrade: The standard 2 × 100Ah AGM setup limits off-grid time with the fridge running. A 200Ah LiFePO4 upgrade roughly doubles usable capacity and improves solar charging efficiency. Our most popular upgrade across all HQ models.
Victron SmartSolar MPPT: The standard solar controller is adequate, but Victron MPPT delivers 20–30% more energy from the same panels and includes Bluetooth monitoring. A meaningful upgrade for extended off-grid use.
Dometic CoolMatic CRX 80 (HQ12 only): The HQ12's 93L absorption fridge struggles in heat. Swapping to a CoolMatic compressor fridge dramatically improves cooling performance in summer conditions.
Additional water tank: All HQ models support aftermarket water tank additions. For extended remote travel, an extra 60–80L tank extends off-grid capability by 2–3 days.
Parts and Spares for Your HQ
We stock Black Series OEM replacement parts across all HQ models — suspension components, water fittings, interior hardware, awning parts, and electrical accessories. Browse our Black Series parts collection or contact us to find a specific part for your year model and build variant.