Sometimes, indeed, less is more, as we happily discovered while driving the all-new Gulf Stream B Touring Cruiser. While aimed at the growing multiuse recreational vehicle market, the B Touring Cruiser is just as much at home in an urban setting as it is in the backcountry. At 23 feet 9 inches long, with a narrow body and low aerodynamic shape, it lends itself well to the trials and tribulations of city driving. In addition to its primary camping function, it should also be very effective in transporting busy 21st-century family and friends to their various indoor and outdoor activities that may never require leaving the urban landscape.
Our test coach was Gulf Stream’s model 5230, an aft-bath unit with the optional dinette mounted in the slide-out and fitted to Ford’s E-350 cutaway chassis powered by the 6.8-liter V-10 gas engine.
Gulf Stream has incorporated a number of larger-coach features into a smaller package. This makes the B Touring Cruiser an ideal choice for anyone, from an entry-level buyer to the veteran looking to downsize to an easier-to-drive (and park) rig. Four models are available, from 22 to 28 feet, with floorplans that include an aft bedroom, aft galley or aft bath complemented by myriad interior and exterior options. There’s also a slick off-road “G-Force” package designed with the boondocker/explorer in mind.
The B Touring Cruiser is a well-designed-and-executed coach that will appeal to those who are looking for a downsized alternative to a larger, more costly rig. It has many of the same amenities, but fits easily in the driveway, can be used to haul the golfers to the course or the kids to practice, and still provides the family with a first-class camping experience.
Pick up the June 2003 issue of Trailer Life for full test impressions and details on the B Touring Cruiser 23′ — then subscribe to Trailer Life — so you can stay informed on the latest tow vehicles, tests, previews, and technical and RV-lifestyle information.
Gulf Stream Coach Inc., (800) 765-8787, gulfstreamrv.com
