Winnebago has taken the wraps off the latest addition to its already deep catalog of RV models, but this one takes the brand in an unexpected and exciting new direction. The Winnebago Arka is a truck-based rig aimed squarely at the overlanding space, with the capabilities and features to match. But performance of this level doesn’t come cheap, making this one of the most expensive vehicles that the company currently offers.
Photo Credit: Winnebago
The Arka rides on a Ram 5500 4×4 chassis, sporting a 6.7L diesel engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The rig measures 26’7” in length, has a GVWR of 19,500 lbs., and an interior height of 6’8”. It is outfitted with dual 480-amp alternators, a built-in trailer brake controller, electronic stability control, and a 15,000 lbs. trailer hitch. Driver conveniences include lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warnings, and automatic emergency braking. The infotainment system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the truck even has a built-in 4G WiFi hotspot.
For now, the Arka is available in a single floor plan dubbed the 20Z. But that one model does offer several distinct options, including three different styles and sizes of dinettes, each of which converts into a bed. The main sleeping space is found in the cabover area, which offers multiple modes, including dual twin beds or both a queen- or king-size mattress. This allows the RV to comfortably sleep four, and potentially more, if you don’t mind getting cozy.
Photo Credit: Winnebago
Other interior highlights include a surprisingly spacious shower and a cassette toilet mounted on a sliding tray that moves out of the way when not in use. The Arka comes with ample storage space, too, including a gear garage with an integrated L-track tie down system in the rear. A 10” touchscreen grants access to the Winnebago Connect multiplexing system, making it easy to control lights, HVAC, and onboard power systems. Two movable and height adjustable tables add versatility and convenience.
The rig’s galley kitchen feels modern and efficient, with solid-surface countertops, a flip-up counter extension, and integrated accent lighting. A portable induction cooktop makes cooking meals a breeze, while conveniently storing away when not in use. A 12V mini-fridge and a stainless steel undermount sink round out the standard features, with a microwave oven as an optional add-on.
Photo Credit: Winnebago
Designed from the ground up to be a four-season, off-grid camper, the Winnebago Arka ships with a hydronic heater with multiple zones, heated floors, and heated holding tanks. It also ships with ample insulation, giving it a broad operating temperature zone ranging from -10ºF to 120ºF. Sadly, the RV ships from the factory with air conditioner prep, with a 48V split A/C system as an optional upgrade.
An EcoFlow power hub serves as the brains for the Arka’s electrical system and includes an integrated solar controller, a 3600W inverter, an AC-to-DC converter, and an alternator connection. These ensure the house batteries stay charged while on the move. The rig supports up to 800W of solar and 15kWh of lithium power cells, allowing it to stay off-grid for up to 14 days at a time. A 60-gallon freshwater tank, a 40-gallon gray water tank, and a UV water purification system help support those efforts.
Photo Credit: Winnebago
The Arka isn’t Winnebago’s first foray into the off-road camping space, as its Class B Revel has been a popular option for some time. But this new vehicle looks to take things to a new level, offering better all-around performance on a more rugged and capable platform. The truck-based model should make reaching remote campsites even easier, while delivering a roomy, well-appointed interior that provides a more elevated experience compared to a camper van. But that performance does come at a price.
As we already hinted at above, the Arka doesn’t come cheap, with a starting price of $331,901. Whether or not the intended audience for the rig is willing to spend that much with Winnebago remains to be seen, as the brand is now competing with smaller, but more established, manufacturers in the overlanding space.
Photo Credit: Winnebago
That said, we love that Winnebago is wading into these waters. Not only does it show the growing demand for overlanding-focused vehicles, it indicates that the big players in the RV space have also noticed the trend. Perhaps we’ll see other RV brands tip their toes into these waters, too, bringing more off-road vehicle options to the market.
The Winnebago Arka will officially make its public debut at Overland Expo West in Flagstaff, AZ next weekend (May 15-17). If you’re at the event, you’ll be able to check it out for yourself. We can’t wait to see it firsthand, as it looks like one of the more interesting and unique vehicles we’ve seen from an RV manufacturer in some time.
Find out more on the Winnebago website.
Kraig Becker is a writer in the RV, outdoors, and adventure travel space. Over the course of his career he has contributed to such outlets as Popular Mechanics, Outside Online, Business Insider, TripSavvy, Digital Trends, GearJunkie, The Adventure Blog, and countless others. An avid runner and cyclist, he enjoys camping, hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, and just about any other outdoor activity. His travels have taken him to seven continents and on many amazing adventures.
