When it comes to building coaches that are just a little different, Dynamax is certainly one of the leading contenders. The company established itself as an out-of-the-box manufacturer when it introduced the Grand Sport, a sleek-looking luxury coach mated to a Freightliner cab. Now the company has introduced the DynaQuest, a smaller version of the Grand Sport slated to appeal to those who want a stylish Class C with an almost bulletproof drivetrain and serious luxury in a more compact package.
Built on a Freightliner M2 chassis with a 23,000-pound gross vehicle weight rating (gvwr), the DynaQuest is powered by a Mercedes-Benz 6.4-liter diesel engine backed by an Allison 3000 series six-speed automatic transmission. The test rig (a prototype) was outfitted with a 210-hp version of the Mercedes diesel tied to an Allison 1000 series five-speed automatic transmission. While the smaller diesel is available on special order, the company will provide the 250-hp diesel as standard, upping the gvwr from 21,000 pounds (as in the test rig).
The DynaQuest 260SL is not a cushy half-ton pickup, but the Freightliner’s driver’s position keeps the operator happy in comfortable surroundings. A broad range of seat adjustments, including vertical height/pressure for the air-ride part of the seat, help the driver get comfortable. The average-size steering wheel can be positioned to allow a good view of most gauges, and the balance of the vehicle controls is no more complex than on a standard Class C coach.
By day, there’s plenty of room in the living area. The 35-inch-deep slideout adds floor space, and the dinette is another place for a lounger to relax. The Flexsteel/sofa bed in the slideout room serves for daytime relaxation, and is also the main bed at night. It folds out to a 62 x 72-inch bed that’s fairly comfortable, but may be a bit tight for extra-tall persons. More than likely, this will be a two-occupant rig most of the time, so the multi-sleeper complexity will seldom be a problem.
The DynaQuest is a shade longer than 26 feet and fairly pricey. With a boatload of standard luxury features, the test rig sported a sticker price of $166,693, which becomes $182,039 with the bigger motor and heavier transmission added to the package.
Pick up the February 2005 issue of Trailer Life for full test impressions and details on the Infiniti QX56 and the DynaQuest 26′ — then subscribe to Trailer Life, so you can stay informed on the latest tests, previews, tow vehicles, and technical and RV-lifestyle information.
Dynamax Corporation, (888) 295-7859, dynamaxcorp.com.
