Class A motorhomes have taken on a much more efficient and varied slant
lately, including more horsepower, torque and cleaner emissions.
However, considering that the gap in price between the diesel and
gasoline engines is shrinking every year, one of the more interesting
directions finds prospective owners in a quandary about which chassis
and drivetrain makes the most sense for their needs.
Although there is usually a difference in model designations between a
gas- or diesel-powered motorhome, Winnebago’s 2008 Destination is
available on the standard Workhorse UFO chassis with a rear-mounted gas
8.1-liter V-8 or the optional Freightliner XC diesel chassis with a
Cummins 6.7-liter ISB diesel engine. Other than the chassis and
drivetrain, the coaches are identical.
Available in two floorplans, the 37G and the 39W (the one we
tested, pictured to the right), the Destination has been specially
designed from the ground up to accommodate both chassis options, and the
result is a very livable coach with sleeping for up to six.
The flowing floorplan of our 39W test unit includes a forward
living room, midcoach galley and dinette, fully enclosed bathroom and
rear master bedroom. Livability is enhanced with two slideouts — one
streetside for the living/dining area and a curbside extension that
includes the galley and a good portion of the bedroom. Once the slide is
out, a hallway leading to the bedroom is exposed; the bathroom is
adjacent, with access from either the bedroom or the living room. When
the slide is retracted, the hallway disappears, but occupants can walk
through the bathroom to enter the bedroom.
Our test-drive took place in and around the Southern California
area, traveling roads with a wide variety of topography and giving us
the opportunity to experience the handling characteristics of the
Destination. Cameras on the side of the coach help the driver verify
that there is no traffic when changing lanes. On our route, the coach
climbed a 7-percent uphill grade at a minimum speed of 53 mph, with the
transmission downshifted into third gear. Descending the same incline,
our speed was held to 56 mph in third gear without having to ride the
anti-lock-equipped drum brakes. Cruising the interstate, we recorded
10.92 mpg, with judicious use of the throttle.
With the help of the Workhorse UFO chassis, Winnebago has put a
new slant on choosing a motorhome. With a difference of about $17,000
between the diesel- and gas-pusher, the choice seems to now be relegated
to personal engine preferences.
For complete details and full test impressions of Winnebago’s
2008 Destination, pick up the February 2008 issue of MotorHome magazine
on the newsstand — then subscribe to MotorHome
so you can stay informed on the latest motorhome tests, previews,
technical information, products, travel destinations and more.
Winnebago Industries, (641) 585-3535, www.winnebagoind.com
