It’s hard to picture a 36-foot Class A diesel-pusher as being downsized, but that’s the
case with the new 36 QSP Allegro Bus from Tiffin Motorhomes. The 2009 36 QSP, apart from being the smallest model in the Allegro Bus lineup, is also the company’s first quad-slide coach of this size. An experienced eye can tell this is a shorter-than-40-foot coach, and it’s impressive and has the usual Tiffin sense of style. Bold graphics and glossy paint plus tasteful details make this coach a real head-turner
Power awnings with sleek metal wrappers help keep the exterior clutter-free. The swing-out access doors make it even easier to reach the capacious pass-through storage bay areas, one of which includes an optional slide-out tray ($700) that’s a real back saver. One compartment includes the optional exterior 32-inch LCD high-definition TV ($1,540) for campsite entertainment.
The company’s proprietary Powerglide chassis with full air suspension plus independent front suspension is standard for this motorhome, as are the Cummins 425-hp ISL engine, Allison transmission and ABS-equipped front disc and rear drum brakes.
The interior space doesn’t reflect the unit’s smallest-in-its-class size. Two spacious slide-outs up front bring wide-open space to the forward living room, kitchen and dining area. To the rear, the bedroom’s pair of slide-outs add walking and dressing space, and the bath with its street-side toilet and vanity enclosure opposing the curbside shower is conveniently close to the master suite.
Clear instruments and well-planned controls should help the driver enjoy the ride. Adjustable pedals allow for leg and height variations. Visibility is terrific up front, and side-view cameras that help with safe lane changes augment the standard rear-view monitor. This coach’s little touches, like the control switches angled toward the driver for better
visibility, make a difference. The optional power drop-down sunshades ($980) are a feature
we’ve come to appreciate after time on the road with such equipment.
Natural Cherry cabinets, tan ceramic-tiled floor, and grey-shaded upholstery of the Nile color scheme made up the interior décor for the coach we toured, shaping a visually harmonious interior that’s opulent but not extravagant. In addition to the cabinets being an interesting mid-tone color, the company added distinctive wood accents made of a lighter shade of the same lumber. That little detail really makes the woodwork visually stand out. Ultra-leather fabric on the front buckets, the optional street-side sofa bed ($1,680) and the curbside sofa bed is both practical and elegant.
The optional glazed hutch ($560) abuts the aft end of the big slide-out. Finished in a black lacquer-like shade, the hutch also contains the main TV, and with its black-framed screen, it blends right in with the cabinets.
We really appreciate the kitchen with its massive microwave/convention oven, gracefully curved-front solid-surface counter-top with recessed stove-top and generous storage cabinets close by. The double-bowl stainless-steel sink with residential-type faucet adds to the kitchen’s practical side. Notable options that boost the comfort factor include the drawer-type dishwasher ($1,260) and residential refrigerator package that includes a 3kW inverter and two additional house batteries ($1,680). A sensibly sized dinette table that expands when needed is standard and its versatility is broadened with the optional computer workstation ($1,050).
This is the floor-plan for those who prefer a private-toilet-enclosure style of bathroom. The space includes a nice-sized vanity sink and roomy cabinet storage. The busy curbside bedroom wall includes a small slide-out with dresser below and 26-inch LCD TV and cabinet above, plus a corner sink and cabinet with mirror on the fixed wall portion. The floor space in the area makes this a good-looking dressing room. An optional queen-size memory foam mattress ($280) adds comfort to an already gracious bedroom. Reading lamps and small nightstand surfaces provide bedside convenience.
Tiffin has built a reputation as a manufacturer that cares about its clients and the quality of its motorhomes. With an excellent customer service reputation, many Tiffin customers keep coming back when it’s time to buy, and the new 36 QSP is a great option for both first-time buyers and those trading up to a new size and
style.
