New RVs expand options in downsized choices

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By Jeff Johnston MOTOR MATTERS

More fuel-efficient is definitely "in" these days when it comes to RV products. Manufacturers are coming up with interesting, new, smaller motorized and towable options for those looking for something a bit different to fit today's economic sensibilities.

Winnebago Via

Motorhomes based on the Dodge Sprinter van, both the full van and cutaway chassis, are popular and commonplace today. Winnebago Industries (www.winnebagoind.com, 641/585-3535) has gone one step further with the introduction of its all-new 2010 Via Class A motorhome.

The Via and its Itasca equivalent, the Reyo, are based on the Sprinter "cowl" chassis that's currently being imported exclusively by Winnebago. This chassis allows the company to design its entire coach from the ground up, as is typical for any Class A motorhome, instead of working with the Sprinter cab or body features used on the earlier models.

At 25 feet long, the Via is a compact vehicle, yet it offers full-featured livability and comfort. At the same time, its 154-hp Mercedes-Benz 3.0-L turbo-diesel 6-cylinder engine delivers fuel economy numbers considerably higher than the average gas-powered Class A and better than various front- or rear-engine diesel-powered rigs on the market.

Sprinter-van-based Class B motorhomes are reported to achieve as much as 20-plus mpg. Winnebago hasn't released any fuel economy figures yet, but it's reasonable to presume that the Via will achieve lower numbers than the smaller van-based rigs, but still better than a V-8-powered coach.

Contemporary body styling and graphics give the coach visual appeal, and the interior abounds with smooth, rounded surfaces and next-generation-looking cabinets. It's a rig that likely would please the most persnickety type who doesn't want just another box on wheels.

The Via starts at $135,132 base MSRP. That's not cheap, but long-term fuel savings make it a viable investment option.

True North Freelance OSV

The interest in downsized trailers means more RV manufacturers are treading the fine line between an RV and a simple enclosed place to sleep on wheels. Northwood Manufacturing, a company long known for building functional and high-quality RVs designed by outdoors enthusiasts, has developed a new small trailer that fits a variety of recreation product niches.