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Yukon XL and SunnyBrook 27′

Originally Published in Trailer Life Magazine

The desert wasn’t supposed to be like this. We went in search of sunshine and warm weather, yet found ourselves heavily bundled up next to the campfire and climbing a twisty road in the snow the next morning. But regardless of conditions, the fully optioned Yukon XL made us feel supremely confident towing a SunnyBrook 27-footer that was our cozy portable home. That confidence, in part, was due to GM’s optional Quadrasteer four-wheel steering sytem, which takes the stability already afforded by the 2500-series platform up a significant notch.

Four-wheel steering has been done before on small high-performance cars, but it wasn’t offered on private-use trucks until GM introduced it in 2002 on select 1500-series vehicles. For 2003, the availability of Quadrasteer has been widened, and includes the 2500-series Yukon XL and Suburban.

We could run out of superlatives to describe the towing improvement with the Quadrasteer system engaged. Until you try it, it’s difficult to imagine the sense of security and stability that results from towing with an extra steering axle out back. A sudden lane change, simulating an emergency situation, is smooth and precise and totally controlled from start to finish. Cornering and tight-road maneuvers are likewise handled in stride. But be warned that even Quadrasteer is not without a few drawbacks.

Our test trailer, the SunnyBrook Lite 2708SL, differs from many travel trailers of today in two respects: It has an aluminum frame and no slideout. While the former is true of all SunnyBrook trailers, the latter is not.

The unit we tested came with many options, including the SL package (stabilizing jacks, spare tire, water-heater upgrade), a pillow-top mattress, a range cover (well worth the $36), aluminum wheels (five for $500), a gelcoat for the fiberglass exterior, a roof rack and ladder, and an upgraded water heater (DSI gas/electric, $145). That brought the price up to $18,000 and change, still a decent buy for an entry-level RV.

The layout of the 2708 is less common than many, and offers the potential for grouping people together or separating them into three areas — no small task in 27 feet.

If you have an RVing family to house, the SunnyBrook 2708 has room for plenty, won’t put a big dent in your budget, and doesn’t need an expensive diesel to pull it. The combo is impressive and ready for the long haul.

Pick up the May 2003 issue of Trailer Life for full test impressions and details on the Yukon XL and SunnyBrook 27′ — then subscribe to Trailer Life — so you can stay informed on the latest tow vehicles, tests, previews, and technical and RV-lifestyle information.

SunnyBrook RV Inc., (574) 825-5250, sunnybrookrv.com

Yukon XL and SunnyBrook 27′
RVSunnyBrook

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