Impulse RVing(2)

SUVs are a popular choice for young families on the go, with new models appearing almost
monthly. Room for the kids and all of their gear is the reason most buyers cite for an SUV
purchase, a principle that Winnebago has applied to its all-new Winnebago Access and Itasca
Impulse Class C motorhomes. Its abundance of exterior storage and robust cargo carrying
capacity, as much as 3,379 pounds in some models, are sure to find favor with families, yet
with a base price in the high $60,000 range, it doesn’t cost much more than some loaded
SUVs, and is even less than a quality full-size SUV and trailer combo. When Winnebago says
the Access and Impulse are “all-new,” it’s not kidding. “This is not some warmed-over
product,” asserts Bill O’Leary, vice president of product development for Winnebago. “Our
goal was to develop an affordable Class C motorhome, and that required rethinking the
product from the ground up. And although it is affordable, it’s built with the same quality
that goes into every Winnebago product, regardless of price point.” O’Leary points out
strategic cost savings, such as the chassis-supplied driver/front passenger seats (instead
of custom seating) and vinyl flooring instead of tile or carpet, as details that cut price,
not quality. Available in six floorplans ranging from 22 to 31 feet, the 31-foot Impulse
31C (pictured) is available on a Ford F-450 or optional Workhorse chassis. Up front, the
cab area includes power windows and door locks, cruise control and a tilt steering wheel,
and the option of power exterior mirrors with defrost. A traditional overhead bunk measures
57 x 80 inches if you require additional sleeping capacity, but if not, you can opt for an
entertainment system with a 20-inch color TV and DVD player, plus added storage. A 40 x
67-inch sofa bed and 42 x 67-inch fixed dinette are housed in a large streetside slideout,
across from the galley. Standard features here include a microwave oven, a three-burner
range, an overhead television cabinet and a double-door Norcold refrigerator. The bath area
features an enclosed toilet room with lav and an opposing shower with a folding door, and
the master suite boasts a 60 x 75-inch queen bed with a streetside wardrobe as well as a
curbside nightstand and TV shelf. Less-noticeable — but still significant — standard
features include a full fiberglass roof and rugged rotocast storage compartments. “We’ve
provided all of the equipment people really need, and allow them to option it out however
they desire,” explains O’Leary. In the case of the 31C, options include a patio awning, an
exterior accessory package with a rear ladder, running boards and upgraded exterior
storage-compartment covers, a rear-vision camera and LCD monitor, an electric entry-door
step, a 4kW Onan MicroQuiet genset and a 14,800 BTU ducted air conditioner (13,500 BTU
ducted standard). “The Impulse is ideal for families and first-timers,” O’Leary concluded.
“They will find it is truly affordable.” Winnebago Industries Inc., (641) 585-6935,
www.winnebagoind.com