These big Class C motorhomes make living the good life easy
The words “luxury motorhome” generally evoke visions of mammoth Class A coaches, luxury buses and/or conversions with higher-end electronics, appliances and appointments than you’d likely find in a luxury Manhattan high-rise. For years these land-yachts have dominated the scene, and continue to enjoy immense popularity in the upscale RV-shopper market.
But not to be outdone, Class C motorhomes have evolved over the years to include many of the upper-crust features so often associated with Class A’s, with all the convenience of a (relatively) familiar ride and handling platform. Plus, many RVers prefer dual-cockpit entry doors afforded by the Class C configuration rather than entering the driver’s area via the living area as with a Class A.
Whether they’re part of the beefy “Super-C” segment or simply nimble brutes built on heavy-duty rails, today’s Class C motorhomes are so much more than the cabover sleepers built on a van chassis of years past. And, these beautiful beasts are strong, some even built on commercial-duty chassis found on semis, many of which sport a tow rating capable of pulling anything you’ll ever need. But this herculean strength is equally matched by the posh amenities on the inside, from the solid-surface countertops, hardwood cabinets and big-screen TVs we’ve come to expect, to the granite flooring, bath-and-a-half floorplans and flagship navigation systems we may not have seen coming.
So, from hulking Super C’s to robust Class C’s that are just plain super, the following motorhomes are good examples of what’s on the market today.
Born Free Imperial
The Born Free Imperial is a good fit for RVers looking to downsize, or for someone who wants an easy-to-drive motorhome. The standard Imperial is shown here, and options for dual slides, handicap accessibility and different sleeping configurations make the selection process a custom affair. Every Born Free is constructed with three tubular steel rollbars for safety, molded fiberglass body, fiberglass floor and running boards and all-LED body lighting. Inside, the handmade cabinetry features all hardwood doors and drawer faces, ¾-inch furniture-grade plywood and dovetailed drawers.
Plus, each Born Free base model comes equipped with a 4-kW generator, navigation, backup camera, 15,000-Btu air conditioner, 32-inch LED TV, Blu-ray player, electric awning, 2,000-watt inverter and more. A fiberglass warranty protects against corrosion or hail perforation for the life of the coach (to the original purchaser).
Born Free
800-247-1835
www.bornfreerv.com
Coach House Platinum
Coach House Platinum motorhomes are constructed with a patented one-piece, hand-laid fiberglass shell reinforced with carbon fiber, which the company claims results in a stronger, more durable and quieter vehicle. The Platinum 261XL DT shown here is a twin-bed model with a streetside slide that houses a convertible dinette. A spacious bathroom spans the width of the motorhome at the rear.
Like all Platinum motorhomes, the 261XL is fitted with top-of-the-line appliances and fixtures, a porcelain toilet, separate stand-up shower, 32-inch HDTV, three-way refrigerator and microwave convection oven. Coach House also offers standards such as a generator, hitch receiver, auxiliary batteries, full-body paint, navigation system with backup camera, automatic rain-sensing roof vent fans and more.
Coach House motorhomes are sold only at the factory in Nokomis, Florida, and Coach House warranty service is available nationwide or at the factory.
Coach House Inc.
800-235-0984
www.coachhouserv.com
Dynamax
Dynamax has been building Super C motorhomes for more than 17 years, and it shows. For the new 2016 DX3 lineup featured here, the manufacturer has introduced more aerodynamic front and rear caps and three new color schemes designed by artist Dean Loucks. Also included are thermal-pane windows, a 3,000-watt inverter with auto generator start, 4D AGM batteries, an Aqua-Hot hydronic heating system, a Thetford Sani-Con system, porcelain-tile flooring and quartz countertops. The interior is adorned with cherry hardwoods, upgraded upholstery and premium appliances. The redesigned DX3 lineup offers a long list of standard features, including a 20,000-pound tow rating, touch-screen audio/navigation system, electric fireplace (37TRS only) and a whole-coach water-purification system. Once you select a floorplan in the DX3 lineup, only three options are offered: Norcold 12-cubic-foot refrigerator with icemaker, stackable washer/dryer and bunk DVD players (37BH floorplan).
Dynamax
888-295-7859
www.dynamaxcorp.com
Haulmark
Haulmark Motorcoach is known for its durable, high-class motorhomes. Haulmark combines high-mile Volvo and Freightliner chassis with posh living quarters the company claims are designed to last 1 million miles. With features like solid-hardwood cabinetry, Corian countertops and granite flooring, in addition to the buffet table, 23-cubic-foot refrigerator and the convenience of a bath-and-a-half floorplan, we imagine those million miles in the 4501 GS configuration shown here would be more than enjoyable. Plus, it always helps to have an onboard wine chiller and glass holder; be ready to host all the parties at the RV resort. Haulmark coaches also offer ample subfloor storage in a solid-steel compartment, and a mind-boggling 40,000-pound towing capacity. A wide variety of options is available, including exterior paint packages and whichever interior upgrade you can think of; imagine the selection process for that aforementioned Manhattan high-rise, and you’re on the right track.
Haulmark Motorcoach
574-264-9661
www.haulmarkmotorcoach.com
Itasca Cambria
The Itasca Cambria is a low-profile Class C motorhome that combines upscale living amenities with a rugged Ford E-450 chassis. That combination makes it a great choice for RVers looking to scale things up a bit, as the Ford chassis is a familiar, friendly platform that’s easy to maneuver. But this convenience comes without much compromise; the Cambria sports Ultraleather furniture, Corian countertops, available mosaic-tile backsplashes, a powered patio awning with LED lighting and TVs in the lounge and the bedroom. A large pass-through sliding tray and dinette below-seat compartment make storage easy. The 30J offers a split-lavatory footprint, and the master bedroom houses a walkaround queen bed, dual nightstands and a wardrobe. All this on a motorhome constructed using methods such as laser-cut structural-steel tubing, Thermopane side windows and a fiberglass roof.
Winnebago Industries Inc.
641-585-3535
www.winnebagoind.com
Jayco Seneca
The Jayco Seneca features an impressive balance of sturdy construction and thoughtful upscale amenities. The Seneca is built on the Freightliner M2 106 chassis coupled with a Cummins ISB 6.7-liter diesel and fitted with a 10,000-pound-rated hitch receiver. A heavy-duty rear air suspension provides a smooth ride, while a front-axle stabilizer reduces the need for steering corrections. The seamless fiberglass front cap improves aerodynamics and increases durability. Inside, the padded ceiling makes for a soft, enjoyable atmosphere, while the cherry-stained, solid-hardwood cabinetry, high-gloss solid-surface countertops with tile backsplash and laminate flooring all offer a touch of class. The living area of the 37HJ shown here features a cabover queen bed and entertainment center with electric fireplace, while the master boasts a king bed, wardrobe, dresser and optional washer/dryer. Every Jayco features a two-year warranty.
Jayco
574-825-5861
www.jayco.com
Renegade RV
The 2015 Renegade XL 45RF is a 45-foot triple-slide unit featuring a large kitchen, solid-surface counters, maple cabinets and plenty of storage. Luxurious flourishes include soft-close drawers, day/night shades, a large pantry and an 18-cubic-foot residential refrigerator. The bath-and-a-half floorplan features a Flexsteel sofa bed and spacious dinette with storage drawers as standard. There’s a mini-king bed and plenty of wardrobe and dresser storage, plus a private master bath featuring a vessel-bowl sink, vanity, and huge one-piece shower with integrated seat and glass surround. Outside, the XL features fiberglass walls and a one-piece fiberglass roof, and is finished with tri-color full-body paint, frameless dual-pane windows and side-swing baggage doors. Power comes courtesy of the impressive 525-hp Cummins ISX 15-liter diesel.
Renegade RV
888-522-1126
www.renegaderv.com
Thor Chateau
Thor Motor Coach’s Chateau Super C platform incorporates Ford’s F-550 Super Duty chassis with the 300-hp, 660 lb-ft-torque Power Stroke diesel, increased fuel efficiency and a 10,000-pound hitch receiver. Some key elements include Thor’s own HD-MAX Exterior with Graphics Package; automatic hydraulic leveling jacks; chrome, heated remote exterior mirrors with a side-view camera system; leatherette furniture; residential appliances; a power patio awning with integrated LED lighting and solid-surface kitchen countertops.
At bedtime, the 35SB bunkhouse featured here offers amidships bunk beds, in addition to the rear king bed, front overhead sleeper, sofa with air bed and dream dinette, upping the sleeping positions to double digits. Popular options include a cabover entertainment center with a 50-inch TV, DVD player and soundbar; a 12-volt DC attic fan in the galley or overhead bunk; and a 6-kW Onan diesel generator.
Thor Chateau
800-860-5658
www.chateau-super-c.com
Thor Four Winds 35SF
Thor’s Four Winds 35SF Super C features an open floorplan matched to a 6.7-liter V-8 Power Stroke diesel engine. The motorhome features all the comforts of home, including two lav areas, a spacious split galley with a three-burner stove, microwave, 18-cubic-foot fridge and plenty of counterspace. The bath-and-a-half floorplan helps with privacy and convenience, while the large rear bedroom “retreat” sports a 60-by-75-inch queen bed, his-and-hers closets and a 32-inch LED TV – all with access to the adjoining bathroom. The kids will no doubt enjoy watching their favorite shows on the 32-inch TV mounted on a swivel in the cabover area (an even larger 50-inch TV is part of an overhead cab entertainment center option). There’s also an exterior 32-inch TV for outdoor entertainment. Sleeping for up to eight is easily accommodated, based on options. Leatherette captain’s chairs, a backup monitor, and touch-screen AM/FM radio with DVD/CD player are designed to make piloting the coach even more enjoyable.
Thor Four Winds
800-860-5658
www.fourwinds-super-c.com
Winnebago Aspect
The Winnebago Aspect Class C incorporates the same feature and comfort level as the famous manufacturer’s top-of-the-line Class A gasser. However, the lower ride height and automotive cab make the Aspect drive like a smaller motorhome while living like a larger one. This combination of luxury and ease of driving is what makes them so popular with RVers looking to downsize from a larger Class A gas or diesel-pusher motorhome. The triple-slide 30J featured here is one of three available floorplans and features a 40-inch LCD TV, powered RestEasy sofa/recliner, polished private collection Corian countertops, stone and tile backsplashes and upgraded Ultraleather furniture. Thoughtful appointments include a large shower in the mid-coach split bathroom, flip-up countertop extension and an exterior rear trunk and table. Popular configurations also include premium adjustable-firmness mattresses, hydraulic leveling jacks and satellite TV dish.
Winnebago Industries Inc.
641-585-3535
www.winnebagoind.com
