Newmar packs big features into a midsize gas coach
Newmar is known throughout the RV industry for quality craftsmanship, and the 2014 Bay Star continues the tradition at a price that is attractive to first-time buyers. Newmar provides many luxury features in the gas-powered Bay Star line that were previously only offered in diesel pushers. Available in six impressive floorplans ranging from 29 to 33 feet, the Bay Star is built on the proven Ford F53 chassis with the Triton V-10 engine.
Launched last year, the Bay Star 3124 floorplan has great features, including a full-wall slideout, upscale furnishings, handmade cabinetry and full-body paint available in two colors, Latte and Hazelnut. The full-body paint scheme with protective finish is attractive, modern and sleek-looking. The 3124 is equipped with a large electric patio awning, and is color coded to match the full-body paint. Outside storage is plentiful, with pass-through storage bays easily accessible from both sides of the motorhome.
The Bay Star’s cockpit is adorned with wood trim, easy-to-read gauges and controls for the stereo, heated power mirrors, 4 kW Cummins-Onan generator, backup monitor and the standard hydraulic auto-leveling system. The cockpit chairs are comfortable and swivel to face the cabin. Controls for the air conditioning and heat pump are placed on the wall next to the driver’s seat for easy access. The Sony surround sound audio system and optional 32-inch LED TV (prewired for satellite) are mounted above the cockpit and provide theater-quality sight and sound to entertain, even if the viewing angle from the sofa isn’t optimal. The cabinet above the entry door houses the tank-monitoring systems, slideout controls and battery disconnect. The panel has been redesigned and is angled to better accommodate shorter travelers.
The Bay Star interior is available in two décor choices and three different wood options. Our test unit was outfitted with the Inca Tan interior, a combination of light browns offset by the Empire Maple wood trim. All of the overhead storage cabinets have hidden hinges that provide a very clean look. The quality cabinet design and rich wood trim are impressive. The roomy cabin has an expansive feel with integrated ceiling and overhead lights, artwork and lighted wall sconces that give the appearance of a much more expensive coach.
The highlight of the living area is the aforementioned full-wall streetside slideout that runs nearly the entire length of the coach. This feature, combined with large windows, gives the Bay Star 3124 an open, residential feel that seems bigger than 31 feet.
The Bay Star kitchen is functional and very modern. The solid-surface counters and backsplash with glass inserts are a luxury design element. A twin-basin sink with matching covers provides additional countertop space. Meal preparation is made easy with a three-burner cooktop, convection microwave and Norcold 8-cubic-foot refrigerator with black front panel. The residential-style full-extension drawers are deep and provide exceptional storage.
The ceiling is well-insulated and the result is a very quiet coach even while the air conditioning is in use. The vinyl flooring has the look of the Newmar Ventana without the added price. The Flexsteel sofa with braided-welt trim is comfortable and attractive, housing a queen-size pullout bed. The bed comfortably sleeps two adults, even though the mattress is a little on the soft side.
The booth dinette allows the table to easily be lowered with the touch of a button, converting into a small bed. Seating can accommodate two people per side; however, the inside person may be a little cramped by the window treatment and table leg. Two full-extension drawers beneath the dinette make good use of the space, and additional storage can be found in the full-extension pantry and linen closet located behind the dinette.
The bathroom is bright, well-lit and offers a good use of space. Other features include a 36-by-36-inch radius shower, modern fixtures and a footrest built into the bottom drawer for shorter travelers.
The bedroom offers a standard king-size bed in a comfortable retreat. The décor in the master suite is inviting with a wood-framed headboard, wainscoting on the rear wall and new bedding style. A Sony LED TV faces the bed and the two wardrobe closets have six dresser drawers beneath.
The Bay Star 3124 is a great example of the high-quality fit and finish that Newmar is known for in a competitively priced package.
Newmar Corp. | 800-731-8300 | www.newmarcorp.com
Our thanks to Tom Lindstrom RV in Southern California for providing this motorhome for our review.
