Metalian Genie vs Bowhunter: Which Compact Trailer Is Right for You?
If you're looking for a compact off-road trailer that can take you beyond the campsite, two Metalian models are worth comparing: the Metalian Genie vs Bowhunter.
Both are designed to keep things compact, practical and adventure-ready, but there are some important differences in weight, GVM, storage and towing requirements.
Metalian Genie: Lightweight and Compact
The Metalian Genie is the smallest and lightest trailer in the Metalian range. With a tare weight of approximately 450–500 kg, depending on the final specification and tent, and a GVM of under 750 kg, it's designed for lightweight towing.
The Genie is particularly well suited to smaller towing vehicles, including the Suzuki Jimny, and is an attractive option for campers looking for a lightweight camping trailer in South Africa. It can be equipped with a rooftop tent (hard or soft shell), 60-litre fridge, 85-litre water tank, kitchen equipment, storage and electrical systems.
In short, the Genie is about packing light and keeping your setup simple.
Metalian Bowhunter: Compact with More Capacity
The Metalian Bowhunter is also a compact off-road trailer, but it gives you more capacity than the Genie. It has a tare of approximately 650 kg and a GVM of 1,250 kg.
The Bowhunter can accommodate a rooftop tent (hard and soft shell), 60-litre National Luna fridge, water system (2 x 68L water tanks), kitchen, awning and a range of electrical and camping accessories.
It is particularly suited to couples and adventurers who want a compact trailer but need more room for camping equipment.
Genie vs Bowhunter: What's the Difference?
The biggest difference comes down to weight and capacity.
Metalian Genie | Metalian Bowhunter | |
Tare | ±450–500 kg* | ±650 kg* |
GVM | Under 750 kg | 1,250 kg |
Size | Smallest Metalian | The 2nd Smallest Metalian |
Ideal for | Lightweight travel & smaller vehicles | Couples & more equipment |
Rooftop tent | Available | Available |
Fridge | Up to 60L | 60L National Luna |
Water | 85L | Up to 136L |
*Final tare depends on the selected specification and accessories.
Which One Should You Choose?
Choose the Metalian Genie if your priority is a lightweight off-road trailer, you drive a smaller vehicle, or you want a simple and easy-to-tow camping setup. It's also particularly relevant if you're looking for a Suzuki Jimny camping trailer.
Choose the Metalian Bowhunter if you want a little more capacity while still keeping your trailer compact. It's a good option for couples who carry more camping gear and want additional water, storage and equipment.
Remember that the Bowhunter's 1,250 kg GVM means an EB licence is required, while the Genie is designed to remain under the 750 kg GVM limit. Always check your specific vehicle's towing rating and the applicable South African licensing requirements before purchasing.
At the end of the Day...
When comparing the Metalian Genie vs Bowhunter, the choice really comes down to how much you want to carry.
The Genie is the lightweight, compact option for travellers who want to keep things simple. The Bowhunter gives you more capacity while retaining a compact footprint.
Both offer the freedom to explore South Africa's gravel roads, bush tracks and off-road destinations — so the right choice depends on your vehicle, your equipment and the way you like to travel. Email us at sales@metalian.co.za for a price list today!
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