Author: Tony Barthel

It’s no secret that a lot of interest exists in the Class B — aka #vanlife — market. What might be something of a surprise though is that some Class Cs just might be better an even better fit than their Class B counterparts. Case in point: the 2025 Thor Motor Coach Four Winds ESpec 19Z. This model is a worthy #vanlife competitor which offers a more attractive price and more spacious interior. 

Equally impressive, you won’t have to stretch your budget — or your parking space. you This smaller Class C fits nicely into smaller spaces, even while still offering a big-feeling interior even without the complexity of a slide room. 

 

At a Glance: Four Winds ESpec 19Z

While the final score for the Thor Motor Coach Four Winds ESpec 19Z at 6.2 out of 10 might seem low, don’t be fooled. This model is all about being the right fit, and there are a couple of features that will be deal breakers for some but not for others. Overall, I really like this RV for the right buyer and feel that there is some real attention to detail as you will see. 

This model is part of Thor Motor Coach’s ESpec line of Class C motorhomes. The intent behind this line is to be more price competitive. And for the right buyer at its price point, it packs a surprising amount of value. 

[review_summary class=”custom-class” title=”2025 Thor Motor Coach Four Winds ESpec 19Z” description=”This score is awarded by an expert reviewer conducting an independent assessment of the RV.”]

 

Check the Specs

• Sleeping capacity: 4
• UVW: 8,755 pounds 
• CCC: 2,745 pounds
• Exterior length: 20 feet 5 inches
• Exterior height 10 feet 8 inches
• Exterior width: 7 feet 10 inches
• Fresh/Gray/Black: 20/16/17 gallons
• Propane: 40 pounds
• Awning: 11 feet
• MSRP: $114,520

 

 

Features We Love

• Interior/exterior size balance
• Better bathroom than most Class Bs
• Two bed options
• Interior storage and layout
• Under-cap puddle lights
• Auto generator start based on temperature and battery state of charge

 

Benefits

• Open atmosphere. While this is not a particularly large RV, the layout and windows give it good natural lighting and a very open feel. 
• Spacious bathroom for size. Comparably sized Class B vans frequently have heavily compromised bathrooms just because of space constraints. While this is still a wet bath (meaning the shower and toilet are all in the same space), it’s still much more spacious than what you find in a Class B. And there is good headroom in the space. 
• Bed options. With a very large U-shaped dinette in the back and a good-sized, over-cab bunk you could choose to use one, or both. But you could also leave the bunk over the cab for storage depending on who’s camping with you. 
• Hidden storage. There were a number of cubbies, drawers and compartments, some of which were hidden surprises, making storage a highlight of this design. 
• Great lighting. The lights above each of the cab doors in this RV come on when you open the doors illuminating the space beneath. This is great to spot curbs or puddles or other tripping hazards as you enter/exit the vehicle. 
• Automatic generator start. The automatic generator start is a handy feature. You can configure this so that it comes on when the batteries drop to a certain state of charge but there’s another function where the generator can come on based on interior temperature. So, if you leave your pets inside and the temperature climbs above a certain point the generator can fire up and operate the AC, thereby keeping Fido feeling fine. 

 

Challenges

• Chassis and cockpit. The Ford-built chassis and cockpit in the Four Winds ESpec 19Z are dependable, but they’re not built specific for RVs. While reliable, the suspension isn’t exactly smooth, and the handling isn’t a particular highlight. 
• No bedroom. Great example that someone views as a benefit may be another buyer’s challenge. Although there are two sleeping spaces, the Four Winds ESpec 19Z doesn’t have a designated bed space. As mentioned, there is the large U-shaped dinette that converts, and there is a bed over the cab of this rig. But while those choices will suit some campers very well, they may nott suit all. 
• Wet bath. This is another preferential differentiator. (Noticing a trend?) The bathroom in here is a wet bath meaning that the shower and toilet are all in the same space. While this is a well-done example, and offers decent space, wet baths can be something some individuals don’t like. 

 

Best For

• This would be a home run for a solo camper who wants a small and relatively affordable motorhome yet one with a full set of features. 
• For those considering #vanlife (and keeping their RV small), this could be a really smart alternative with a relatively affordable price yet practical layout. 

 

Key Areas We Evaluate for RV Buyers

Sleeping Space: 5/10

Depending on who the buyer is, this category is going to be one of the make-it-or-break-it features of the Four Winds ESpec 19Z — without a doubt. Point blank, there is not a traditional bedroom in this model. However, there is a larger U-shaped dinette in the back. And additionally, there is also a larger over-cab bunk that could accommodate two adults and is rated for 850 pounds of capacity. So, there are two adult-friendly spaces to sleep, but no bedroom or permanent bed space.

You could set-up the over-cab bunk to be a permanent sleeping space with an included telescoping ladder to access the space. In theory, you could also set-up the U-shaped dinette as a permanent sleeping space, although this would eliminate all but the in-cab seats for sitting. 

It only took me a few moments to convert the dinette into a bed (nice!), and, with something like an RV Superbag, it would really be a quick transformation that would work well. 

 

 

Bathroom: 6/10

The bathroom in the Four Winds ESpec 19Z is what is referred to as a wet bath. For those who are unfamiliar with wet baths, it means that the toilet and shower are in one space. There is a small corner sink, but I found headroom to be plentiful. There was also enough space to be able to have full use of the toilet or the shower. I like that there is a higher-performing vent in the bathroom and a skylight adds additional headroom. 

There is a curtain that draws around the space and the toilet paper is in a covered compartment. Still, a wet bath can be a deal breaker for some buyers. 

 

 

Living Area: 5/10

There are two places for seating or gathering in the Four Winds ESpec 19Z — the cab of the rig and then that large U-shaped dinette. The table for this sits on a pole. Personally, I much prefer the free-standing tables some RVs use because you can accommodate more for the varying girths of different travelers. 

Still, there is plenty of space around this larger dinette with some space behind the backrest cushions for drinks with cup holders. There are also household and USB power outlets here and windows all around giving the space an open feel. 

You could also just put the table down and turn this into a giant lounge which would be great for movie nights or just relaxing. 

 

 

Kitchen: 7/10

The kitchen in the Four Winds ESpec 19Z features a two-burner, in-line propane stove and a convection microwave. There’s a larger round-bowl sink. Even though this kitchen is smaller, there isn’t a bad amount of counter space, and Thor Motor Coach provides a countertop extension that flips up and is flush with the rest of the counter. (A very nice example of attention to detail.)

There are limitations to how much space you have for drawers and storage, but Thor Motor Coach did a good job of maximizing that. There are drawers in the kitchen. Also, there is a larger cabinet behind the bathroom that could be a pantry with adjustable shelving or hanging storage. There are also some drawers beneath this as well which could serve the kitchen or the bedroom. 

This is certainly better than many kitchens in Class Bs and camper vans. 

 

 

Four-Season Capabilities: 7/10

The Four Winds ESpec 19Z is really intended for use when the weather stays above freezing with limited provisions to combat sub-zero temperatures. There are no tank heaters in here, so I wouldn’t camp if nights turn colder than freezing for any length of time. 

However, on the opposite end of the temperature scale, there is a generator aboard that can kick on based on the RV’s interior temperature or the battery’s state of charge. What this means is that, if you leave pets behind in the RV and the temps climb higher than where you want them to be, the generator can turn on which would kick-on the air conditioner and keep your furry trailers comfortable as the mercury climbs. This is an unusual feature in this price point and a nice surprise.

 

Storage Space: 7/10

I know I keep returning to this point, but the logical competitor to the Four Winds ESpec 19Z  would be a Class B. Most have essentially no exterior storage. So, the several compartments here, plus the good-sized rear pass-through storage, puts this model well above others in this price range. 

Further, Thor Motor Coach really took advantage of every inch of the interior to put cubbies, drawers or little compartments. For the size of this rig, I think storage is a big plus. (The kitchen, as mentioned before, is further proof.)

 

 

Chassis/Suspension: 4/10

Just a little perspective on the chassis in the Four Winds ESpec 19Z. When Ford builds this chassis, they don’t know if it’s going under a moving truck. Or a plumber’s truck. Or an RV. Therefore, the suspension on these is fairly rigid and handling is not a strong suit. The ESpec series doesn’t mitigate this with suspension or chassis upgrades. So, I would imagine that driving the Four Winds ESpec 19Z feels something like driving a rented moving truck. 

Even so, Ford’s “Godzilla” monster V8 is a simple beast that has proven to be reliable and is familiar to mechanics across the USA. That makes it easy to get routine maintenance done.

 

Cockpit: 5/10

While the E-Series cab is a tried-and-true reliable machine that’s been in production for a very long time, that also means that recent upgrades in ergonomics, safety technologies and driving position aren’t part of the equation. While I wouldn’t call this an uncomfortable machine, for comparison, Ford’s own Transit cab and chassis is much better in these areas. 

 

 

Off-Grid/Sustainability: 8/10

With the on-board, 4,000-watt generator that features automatic start based on temperature or battery state of charge, this would be an RV that could easily camp off the grid for days at a time. The reason to come in would be that a holding tank was full more than lack of power to run features in the RV. 

 

Value: 8/10

Despite living at the lower end of the price spectrum, there is a lot I like about how the Four Winds ESpec 19Z is made. The fiberglass used on the exterior is a higher-gloss example which speaks to higher quality. I also like that the cap on the front wraps around the nose of the overhead compartment. This means that there is no exposed edge at the front that can catch in the wind. 

Also, I was told that the lamination process of the RV featured a man-made substrate in the build, which basically means that water intrusion isn’t necessarily catastrophic. Cabinet doors and drawers did have a light weight feel but not concerningly so. 

As you can tell, I can’t stop comparing this to a Class B. It’s about the same length as many, but it offers so much more space and functionality. Given the choice of this rig or many Class B, the choice would be easy for me. Further, I think this RV offers a lot of value for its prospective buyer.

 

Closing Notes on the Four Winds ESpec 19Z

The Four Winds ESpec 19Z is a great example of a product better than all its parts. I really like this rig, and honestly, I don’t think the score numbers (while assessed accurately) really reflect how appropriate this model would be for some travelers. (But I also recognize that the bed set-up and wet bath are deal breakers for others.)

Considering the storage, drivability, and attention to detail in the Four Winds ESpec 19Z, I would recommend someone shopping for a Class B at least give this rig a look. The people for whom this would work will find that it solidly hits the mark.

 

A Note on the RV Trader Review Process

RV Trader asked RV shoppers what was most important to them in their RV buying process. Potential buyers — like you — helped us to identify a list of six key areas that camping and travel enthusiasts always look at when they’re searching for the perfect RV: sleeping space, bathroom, living area, four-season capabilities, and storage space.

The RV Trader team then got to work providing you with honest and unbiased evaluations. If you’re wondering, that’s where I came in. As an RV expert and enthusiast, I provide an honest look at RVs from an RV industry insider perspective.

 

For some RV buyers, the stereotypical size of a Class A can be intimidating. And the thought of driving a 45-foot bus can cause them to limit their search to smaller motorhomes — like Class Cs. While that in itself is fine, I’d offer this piece of advice: Don’t close the door on Class As. Many models are about the same size as a Class C but offer much more. A perfect example of this is the 2025 Thor Motor Coach Axis 26.2. At just over 27 feet, the Axis 26.2 is nimble and offers exceptional cockpit visibility for the driver. And that visibility is equally advantageous if you park where the views are spectacular. This motorhome offers an enormous front viewing area. 

 

At a Glance: Axis 26.2

I gave the 2025 Thor Motor Coach Axis 26.2 6.5 out of 10 stars, which is an average score. Up front, this RV scores high in the areas of storage and cargo carrying capacity. As already mentioned, whether driving or parked, it delivers enviable visibility with the huge windshield and side windows around the cockpit. 

However, the Ford E-Series chassis is not one of the best ride comfort and handling. And if you’re a camper looking to make good use of their galley, you’ll find that the kitchen has limited counter space. 

[review_summary class=”custom-class” title=”2025 Thor Motor Coach Axis 26.2″ description=”This score is awarded by an expert reviewer conducting an independent assessment of the RV.”]

 

Check the Specs

• Sleeping capacity: 4
• UVW: 11,383 pounds 
• CCC: 14,500 pounds
• Exterior length: 27 feet 2 inches
• Exterior height 11 feet
• Exterior width: 7 feet 10 inches
• Fresh/Gray/Black: 42/40/30 gallons
• Propane: 40 pounds
• Awning: 18 feet

 

Features We Love

• Enormous front windshield and side windows
• Plentiful drawers and cabinets
• Outside passthrough storage bay
• Back bedroom with reconfigurable twin beds
• Drop-down, over-cab bunk

 

Benefits

• Exceptional visibility. The huge front windshield and side windows are perfect for individuals who travel to beautiful places and want to see them. The curvature of the glass offers a perfect opportunity to enjoy the surrounding views. There is a power shade over the windshield and blackout shades over the side windows for night. 
• Interior storage. There are a lot of drawers in this motorhome — even more than in some larger rigs. The kitchen has three and then there are six more in the hallway, including one larger drawer toward the back bedroom. Additionally, there are cabinets above the drawers in the hallway and overhead cabinets in the kitchen. Without question, storage is a strong suit in the Axis 26.2. 
• Cargo carrying capacity. On the subject of storage, there’s a large passthrough storage at the back of this rig that surrounds the beds. With a cargo carrying capacity of 3,117 pounds, the Axis 26.2 represents a good amount of ability to carry the things you want to bring camping. 
• Sleeping spaces. The bedroom in the Axis 26.2 features twin beds, but there’s a bolster you can flip down between the beds to turn them into a large king-sized bed. This makes this RV good for couples or camping buddies. Another good bed is the one over the cab, which is on a Schwintek bed-lift mechanism. This 38-inch by 73-inch bed could accommodate two and is another good use of space. (It disappears by day and drops into place at bedtime via the power-lift mechanism.) 

 

Challenges

• Ride comfort. The Ford E-Series chassis in the Axis 26.2 is known for providing less-than-stellar ride and somewhat nervous handling. Originally, it was designed for use in delivery vehicles. So, ride comfort wasn’t a critical design aspect. While some RV makers transform this chassis with upgrades, that’s not true here. 
• Counter space. While the kitchen has all the tools you’ll need to prepare a meal, counter space is very limited here. 
• Solar capacity. The Axis 26.2 has a 100-watt solar panel, which really won’t even provide enough power under ideal conditions to compensate for the rather spacious 12-volt fridge. The value of a 100-watt panel is questionable at best. The general logic is to either provide at least 400 watts (to be able to keep up with the fridge) or just nothing. I suspect many buyers of this rig aren’t doing much boondocking as it is. There’s a generator on board, so that solar panel is more like an expensive decoration.

 

Best For

• This would be a great couples’ camper, especially for those who might otherwise consider a Class C motorhome. 
• This could also be a great rig if you’re traveling with a friend with the option of twin beds in the back or a king-sized bed. 

 

Key Areas We Evaluate for RV Buyers

Sleeping Space

The bedroom in the Axis 26.2 features twin beds, but there’s a bolster you can flip down between the beds to turn them into a large king-sized bed. This makes this RV good for couples or camping buddies. 

The other bed is over the cab, which is on a Schwintek bed-lift mechanism. This 38-inch-by-73-inch bed could accommodate two and is another good use of space. (It disappears by day and drops into place at bedtime via the power lift mechanism.) A telescoping ladder provides access to this space when it’s down. 

I like how the two sleeping areas could accommodate friends who enjoy camping together or couples. Both front and rear sleeping areas are capable of accommodating adults, and the bed over the cab features a slatted surface to make the mattress more comfortable. 

 

 

Bathroom

The bathroom in the Axis 26.2 is just a solid, usable space. While there’s nothing that particularly stands out in here, that’s also a good thing. There is ample space to accommodate any task you would use this space for. I particularly like the flexible shower door with the curved rail at the top which provides a bit more space in the shower. 

The one challenge in here is that there’s only a small four-inch fan, which really does little more than make noise. If hot steamy showers are your thing, which is possible with the tankless water heater, you would definitely want to upgrade this to a better vent fan. 

 

 

Living Area

Every RV is a compromise of some sort, and the living space might be one area where the compromise in the Axis 26.2 is more apparent. The main living area is nothing more than theater seats, but the front captain’s chairs do swivel around so you have as many seats as you do sleep spaces when they’re factored in. 

 

 

Kitchen

An even greater compromise in the Axis 26.2 is the kitchen. The galley has a two-burner propane stove, convection microwave, and sink, but counter space is a real challenge. One solution might be to bring a table that has adjustable height legs where one of the height choices is counter height. There is certainly enough floor space to accommodate this here, and that would solve your kitchen-counter dilemma. 

There is a table that rests on two pole mounts that is intended for the theater seats and a second round table that is intended to mount between the captain’s chairs at the front. But the idea of an adjustable-height portable table would be much more practical in this space. 

 

 

Four-Season Capabilities

Frankly, the Axis 26.2 is suited for more comfortable weather. There are no exceptional efforts made for very cold camping, and I am not aware of tank heaters or a heated tank enclosure. You are definitely going to want to keep an eye on the weather if you camp where the temps can get close to freezing. 

 

Storage Space

Storage is a particularly strong area for the Axis 26.2. Combined with the cargo carrying capacity and the large passthrough storage in the back (effectively under the bed), this rig should prove to be pretty good at bringing the goods. In addition to the rear passthrough compartment, there are also several other smaller outdoor compartments so you can segregate things like take tools and such from more pleasant cargo. 

As mentioned, this rig is also strong on interior storage with two closets, one which could be used as a pantry, and plenty of drawers and overhead cabinets. 

 

 

Closing Notes on the Axis 26.2

I can understand those who might prefer a Class C with the rationale that it seems smaller and more maneuverable, but this has about the same footprint and price of many Class C motorhome. All the while, the Axis 26.2 offers a much more spacious feeling interior. I would think it would be a mistake not to consider this RV if you’re looking at a Class C. 

I shared my issues with the solar on this RV so no need to rehash that. Altogether, this is a pretty good package that can serve a number of different use cases quite nicely. 

 

A Note on the RV Trader Review Process

RV Trader asked RV shoppers what was most important to them in their RV buying process. Potential buyers — like you — helped us to identify a list of six key areas that camping and travel enthusiasts always look at when they’re searching for the perfect RV: sleeping space, bathroom, living area, four-season capabilities, and storage space.

The RV Trader team then got to work providing you with honest and unbiased evaluations. If you’re wondering, that’s where I came in. As an RV expert and enthusiast, I provide an honest look at RVs from an RV industry insider perspective.

 

Not all Class Bs are truly sporty, but the 2025 Thor Motor Coach Palladium 1930 is a Class B model that certainly falls into that wheelhouse. With all-wheel-drive and a lot of inside space tucked into a smaller package, this new entry into the Class B market represents a great choice for campers accustomed to the classic Class B dynamic — a lot of action in a little space. 

 

At a Glance: Palladium 1930

I gave the Thor Motor Coach Palladium 1930 an around-average score of 6.7 out of 10. There are some things this model really gets right — like flexible interior bedding, the outstanding drivability of the Ford Transit Trail chassis, surprisingly ample interior storage, and a Class B decent bathroom.

However, for a price over $180,000, there are some things to consider — like a kitchen with real limitations and storage that’s going to require lean, disciplined packing.

[review_summary class=”custom-class” title=”2025 Thor Motor Coach Palladium 1930″ description=”This score is awarded by an expert reviewer conducting an independent assessment of the RV.”]

 

Check the Specs

• Sleeping capacity: 2
• UVW: 7,534 pounds 
• CCC: 1,536 pounds
• Exterior length: 19 feet 8 inches
• Exterior height 10 feet 2 inches
• Exterior width: 8 feet 1 inch
• Fresh/Gray/Black: 27/20/4.75 gallons
• Awning: 10 feet
• MSRP: $182,700

 

Features We Love

• Power system with second alternator
• Rear bathroom
• Bedding – two twins or a single larger bed

 

Benefits

• Better battery power. The Palladium 1930 is equipped with two ReLion 100-amp-hour lithium batteries incorporated into a Mastervolt system with a Mastervolt Combimaster inverter/charger system. There’s also a second alternator that is able to charge the battery as well as a modicum of solar on the roof. These systems have proven to be exceptional and come out of the marine industry where the tolerance for failure is nonexistent. The second alternator also means no separate generator to maintain nor listen to. 
• Rear bath. See our bathroom section later but the rear bath in this is far more usable than what you may find in other Class Bs. 
• Convertible sleep space. The two bench seats in the back can be great seating, as well as separate sleeping space for two. By using a platform that slides across the open space and employs the backrest cushions, you can even achieve one very large sleeping surface if you choose. 

 

Challenges

• Exterior storage. As common with the case of most Class B models, there is no exterior storage. While not surprising, it is a limitation that should really make you consider how you can use the storage space in the interior.
• Cartridge toilet. We talk about this in further detail later, but some people love these. Others don’t. Cartridge toilets demand that you do some extra footwork to get rid of your business. If that’s not your thing, it’s worth noting.
• RV kitchen limitations. The kitchen gets the short end of the stick in this Class B, with lean counter space, a small sink, and a tiny fridge that limits cold food storage.

 

Best For

• This could be a great RV for those who camp with friends and want a place to sit inside and catch up. With the two bench seats in the back there is a good amount of seating space in here. 
• With the all-wheel-drive and outstanding battery system this could also be a good choice for those who like to camp off the grid. 

 

Key Areas We Evaluate for RV Buyers

Sleeping Space

Sleeping in the Palladium 1930 is less compromised than many Class Bs and offers some good flexibility. Without touching anything, you have two twin-sized beds on either side of the rear of this van. For those who like to sleep in their own bed, this is ideal as it gives each person a place to rest. This is especially fitting if you’re camping with a friend.

Beneath these beds, there is a platform that slides across the space between them. It then utilizes the backrest cushions to convert the entire space into a single large bed. However, in the Class B world of super-limited space, one decision giveth and another taketh away. If you go the singe-bed route, just be aware that it also blocks the pathway to the bathroom. 

 

 

Bathroom

Class Bs aren’t known for great bathrooms, but the Palladium 1930 makes a good showing. Its bathroom, which is a wet bath, covers about two-thirds of the back of the van. Because it is a wet bath, the shower and toilet are in the same space. However, there is a curtain that draws around the bathroom to keep water contained. Altogether, this bathroom works well. It has ample space. And it definitely allows you to get clean in comfort.

Being at the back of the rig, arguably, you could also have another option. Depending on where you are camping, your draw a curtain across the two opened back doors and make that a large shower. It’s not tremendously uncommon to see done among van lifers. And given the sporty demeanor of the Palladium 1930, you could see how the bath would suit life off-road — where it might be the best choice. 

You can also shower in the bathroom, which is really the intention here. Even so, some owners will draw a curtain across the two opened back doors and make a larger space and then shower outside. There is also a thick curtain that covers the back of the van, so privacy issues are solved with that. 

The Palladium 1930 uses a cartridge toilet. So, the contents that you generate go into a portable cartridge rather than a black tank. To dispose of your business, you can dump the cartridge at just about any regular toilet you can find. There are people who absolutely love this system. Naturally, there are also those who don’t want to carry these cartridges around. This is purely a matter of personal taste, but these are absolutely the norm in Europe and also in many Class Bs. 

 

 

Living Area

The two beds at the back of the Palladium 1930 form a rather spacious place to sit during the day. You could easily seat six people if three people sat on each bunk. There is also a Lagun table that can be slotted in here and moved around like the planchette. This helps accommodate all sorts of placements. In addition, there is a second mounting point for the Lagun table that you can use in the kitchen. 

There is one TV back here on the wall, and, if you lounge in the twin bed, this is at a good position. However, you’ll be calling a chiropractor if you try to sit on the road side and watch that TV. Personally, I’d also like the TV to be a 12-volt model, so you don’t have to run the inverter to operate it. 

Interestingly, there are two water fills in this rig — one on the road side and one inside the actual RV itself. 

 

 

Kitchen

Another challenge of the Class B is the kitchen — specifically counter space. The Palladium 1930 is a prime example. The kitchen in this model is basically a very small cabinet with a sink on top. There is a single drawer, but the induction cooktop is found in it and takes up most of space.

As previously mentioned, one option to gain counter space is to use the Lagun table. You can place it on the edge of the camp-side bench to create a kind of kitchen counter. But, even performing this maneuver, this isn’t where you’re going to be practicing for your appearance on that chef TV show. 

Another challenge is that the refrigerator in this model is pretty small. It’s about what you’d expect at your friend’s bar. That means you won’t be using this for Costco runs or getting much cold food storage.

 

 

Four-Season Capabilities

The holding tanks on this vehicle do have 12-volt heating pads, but I would stay pretty aware of the temperature. If you’re camping and gets below freezing for any length of time, it’s probably time to head south.

 

Storage Space

Like virtually all Class Bs, there is absolutely no exterior storage on this unit. The storage you do get are overhead cabinets above the two twin beds. That actually isn’t bad. There’s also storage over the cockpit of this unit that is open at the back. (So watch your use of the accelerator pedal if you put your fine China in here.)

There is also a cabinet that takes up about a third of the back of this rig that provides hanging storage — not something you often find in a Class B RV. There are also a few drawers. A storage cabinet sits opposite the kitchen with four drawers and more hanging storage plus another drawer under the fridge. 

Altogether, there are certainly more drawers and cabinets inside this rig than you’d find in a lot of Class B RVs. So, interior storage is a plus. 

 

 

Closing Notes on the Palladium 1930

The Palladium 1930 certainly doesn’t suffer from its looks. The exterior of this model is sharp and even a bit aggressive — which works well with the all-wheel-drive capability and backs up that sporty vibe. But it’s not over the top. Honestly, the Palladium could almost be mistaken for just another fancy Ford Transit passenger van. So, it’s a bit stealthy and that’s not a bad thing — especially if you have an RV-ticklish HOA.

For those who camp with life partners or friends, the flexible interior and sleeping situation could make this a good choice. Unusual for Class B, it also has enough space that you could comfortably spend time inside with a few friends if the weather gets lousy. The Palladium 1930 could also be a nifty RV to have if you have children in group activities. (You could be the parent with the fridge and bathroom.)

 

A Note on the RV Trader Review Process

RV Trader asked RV shoppers what was most important to them in their RV buying process. Potential buyers — like you — helped us to identify a list of six key areas that camping and travel enthusiasts always look at when they’re searching for the perfect RV: sleeping space, bathroom, living area, four-season capabilities, and storage space.

The RV Trader team then got to work providing you with honest and unbiased evaluations. If you’re wondering, that’s where I came in. As an RV expert and enthusiast, I provide an honest look at RVs from an RV industry insider perspective.

[marketplace_inventory_widget header=”Find your Palladium”]

If you’ve thought about a Class B but been hesitant due to of some classic Class B hang-ups — lack of interior storage or compromised bathrooms — the 2025 Thor Motor Coach Tranquility 24A just might be the solution you’re looking for. While it lacks exterior storage altogether, it’s a different story on the inside. 

 

At a Glance: Tranquility 24A

I gave the Thor Motor Coach Tranquility 24A an above-average score of 7.2 out of 10 based on the flexible interior bedding, outstanding drivability of the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis, surprisingly ample interior storage, and decent bathroom in a Class B.

With an MSRP in excess of $200,000, I’d say features like the all-wheel drive (AWD) and the aggressive exterior are pretty commensurate for what you would expect for a Class B at that price point.

[review_summary class=”custom-class” title=”2025 Thor Motor Coach Tranquility 24A” description=”This score is awarded by an expert reviewer conducting an independent assessment of the RV.” overall_score=”7.2/10.0″]

 

Check the Specs

• Sleeping capacity: 3
• UVW: 8,500 pounds 
• CCC: 2,461 pounds
• Exterior length: 24 feet 4 inches
• Exterior height 10 feet 6 inches
• Exterior width: 7 feet 8 inches
• Fresh/Gray/Black: 35/27.5/26.5 gallons
• Awning: 14 feet
• MSRP: $216,860

 

 

Features We Love

• Mastervolt power system with second alternator
• Mercedes-Benz Sprinter platform
• Rear bathroom
• No propane
• Bedding — two twins or a single larger bed

 

Benefits

• Exceptional battery system. This RV is equipped with a 460 amp-hour Mastervolt battery system as well as Mastervolt CombiMaster inverter/charger system. There’s also a second alternator that is able to charge the battery as well as a modicum of solar on the roof. These systems have proven to be exceptional and come out of the marine industry where the tolerance for failure is nonexistent. The second alternator also means no separate generator to maintain nor listen to. 
• Sprinter chassis. The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter platform incorporates a lot of comfort and safety features that are on-par with what you expect in a high-end car. These features can help make driving much more pleasant as well as safer. Additionally, the four-cylinder diesel engine is remarkably efficient yet surprisingly peppy. These are nice to drive. 
• Bathroom access. See our bathroom section later but the rear bath in this is far more usable than what you may find in other Class Bs. 
• Great heating. The heat and water heat in this RV utilizes the diesel fuel aboard simplifying the number of places you have to go to fuel up this RV. The Aqua-Hot system also provides really pleasant heat — another bonus. 
• Multifunctional sleep space. See our section on the bedding in here but the two bench seats in the back can be great seating as well as sleeping for two and, by using a platform that slides across the open space and employs the backrest cushions, you can even achieve one very large sleeping surface if you choose. 

 

 

Challenges

• Exterior storage. There is none. So, all of your storage options are strictly found in the interior.
• Maintenance accessibility and price. The one downside to the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis that maintenance can be more difficult to obtain in rural areas, and the price of even routine maintenance is high.
• TV placement. Outside of watching TV in the bedroom, the placement is not great for viewing. In the living area, it swings down from the ceiling and faces the back, which creates awkward angles.

 

Best For

• This could be a great RV for those who camp with friends and want a place to sit inside and catch up. With the two bench seats in the back there is a good amount of seating space in here. 
• With the all-wheel-drive and outstanding battery system, this could also be a good choice for those who like to camp off the grid. 

 

Key Areas We Evaluate for RV Buyers

Sleeping Space

Sleeping in the Tranquility 24A is less compromised than many and offers some good flexibility. Without touching anything, you have two twin-sized beds on either side of the rear of this van. For those who like to sleep in their own bed (or if you’re camping with a friend), this works out well. It gives each person a place to rest after a long day. 

There is also a platform beneath these beds that slides across the space between them. You can then utilize the backrest cushions to convert the entire space into a single large bed measuring 75 inches by 70 inches. (But know that adding the center surface also blocks the pathway to the bathroom.)

Additionally, sleep space in the Tranquility 24A includes a two-place bench seat behind the front captain’s chairs which also folds out into be a bed measuring 40 inches by 61 inches. I would imagine that it would be best suited for a younger traveler. Also, when the second bed is folded out, you completely block the sliding door. So, there are a few reasons to think of this as a last resort sleep space. 

 

 

Bathroom

One of the biggest disadvantages of many Class Bs is the bathroom. However, I would say that the Tranquility 24A goes a long way to countering that with a bathroom that covers about two-thirds of the back of the rig. This includes a wet bath, which means that the shower and toilet are in the same space and there’s a curtain that draws around the bathroom to keep water contained. But as for usability, this bathroom works well with enough space to do what you go here to do. 

Being at the back of the Tranquility 24A, you could arguably draw a curtain across the two opened back doors and make that a large shower — depending on where you’re camping. It’s not tremendously uncommon to see this use case in #vanlifers. And with this being a rig that’s suitable to go into some off-road situations, that might be the best choice. 

Water is heated by a diesel-fired Aqua-Hot system. So, you do have a good supply. (But, of course, showering outside isn’t appropriate everywhere.) You can also shower in the bathroom which is really the intention here. There is also a thick curtain that covers the back of the van, so any privacy issues are solved with that. 

 

 

Living Area

The two beds at the back of the Tranquility 24A form a rather spacious place to sit during the day. You could easily seat three people on each bunk, which makes it suitable for up to six people — and converts into a pretty social space. There is also a Lagun table that can be slotted in here which is a table that can move around like a planchette.

There is one TV back here on the wall. And, if you lounge in the twin bed, this is at a good position. (But you’ll be calling a chiropractor if you try to sit on the road side and watch that TV.) That’s true of the front TV as well, which swings down from the ceiling and faces the back of this camper. Honestly, I’d rather just have storage over the cab rather than a TV that’s not all that convenient. I’d also like these TVs to be 12-volt models, so you don’t have to run the inverter to operate them. 

 

 

Kitchen

Another challenge in many Class B is the kitchen. They rarely have much counter space. Again, here the Tranquility 24A stands out from its Class B peers. There is more than typical counter space in this RV, and the kitchen employs a portable induction cook top as the primary heater of pots and pans. 

This is nifty because you can stow it when it’s not being used. But you can also use it where it’s convenient — on the kitchen counter, on the handy counter extension, on a table outside. I really like this solution for a lot of reasons. 

While the counter space is good, relatively speaking, the refrigerator is on the small side. (Not uncommon in Class Bs.)

 

 

Four-Season Capabilities

The holding tanks on this vehicle do have 12-volt heating pads. Even so, I would be cognizant of the temperature if you’re camping where it can get below freezing for any length of time. The Tranquility 24A is not intended to park in deep cold.

 

Storage Space

Like virtually all Class Bs, there is absolutely no exterior storage on this unit. The storage you do get are overhead cabinets above the two twin beds and above the second-row bench seat. That actually isn’t bad.  There is also a cabinet that takes up about a third of the back of this rig that provides hanging storage, not something you often find in a Class B RV, and a few drawers. There is also a storage cabinet opposite the kitchen with four drawers and more hanging storage plus another drawer under the fridge.

All told,  are certainly more drawers and cabinets inside this rig than you’d find in a lot of Class B, so interior storage is a plus. 

 

 

Closing Notes on the Tranquility 24A

With the all-wheel-drive platform and some aggressive details outside the story, the Tranquility 24A clearly wants to find an off-grid adventure. The Mastervolt power system backs that up. So. this would be a decent machine to take on some adventures. But be advised: It’s not a hard-core off-road vehicle.

I would think that the flexible interior and sleeping situation could make this a good choice for those who camp with life partners or just friends. This is also an unusual van in that you can spend time inside if the weather gets lousy just having a conversation with friends.

 

A Note on the RV Trader Review Process

RV Trader asked RV shoppers what was most important to them in their RV buying process. Potential buyers — like you — helped us to identify a list of six key areas that camping and travel enthusiasts always look at when they’re searching for the perfect RV: sleeping space, bathroom, living area, four-season capabilities, and storage space.

The RV Trader team then got to work providing you with honest and unbiased evaluations. If you’re wondering, that’s where I came in. As an RV expert and enthusiast, I provide an honest look at RVs from an RV industry insider perspective.

 

For many full-time RVers there is no other way to travel than in a big diesel-pusher. These Class As are large, diesel-powered, and bus-sized. Altogether, they offer an RV experience built on living large. Thor Motor Coach is a long-time player in the diesel-pusher field, so I was pretty excited to see how their experience translated to the Aria 3702.

 

At a Glance: Aria 3702

I gave the 2025 Thor Motor Coach Aria 3702 a score of 7.3 out of 10. There are some really strong features here — including the plush-feeling interior, incredible storage, and abundant attention to detail. Quite frankly, nothing scores below average in this diesel-pusher, and there are some wow factors that could excite a lot of potential buyers. 

The main thing that impacts the value score here is the overall price, which is over $400,000. Certainly, the Aria 3702 has earned the title of a luxury, Class A diesel-pusher, and for its price I’d say that delivers the standard overall value you would expect.

[review_summary class=”custom-class” title=”2025 Thor Motor Coach Aria 3702″ description=”This score is awarded by an expert reviewer conducting an independent assessment of the RV.”]

 

Check the Specs

• Sleeping capacity: 6
• UVW: 35,320 pounds 
• CCC: 6,485 pounds
• Exterior length: 37 feet 8 inches
• Exterior height 12 feet 6 inches
• Exterior width: 8 feet 5 inches
• Fresh/Gray/Black: 91/51/51 gallons
• Propane: None
• Awning: 20 feet
• MSRP: $434,850

 

Features We Love

• Powerful Freightliner chassis
• Automatic generator start and Onan 8,000-watt diesel generator
• Incredible cockpit
• Whirlpool washer and dryer
• Cargo tray in storage bay
• Hidden storage inside

 

 

Benefits

• Pet-friendly power. The automatic generator start is a handy feature. You can configure this so that it comes on when the batteries drop to a certain state of charge, but there’s another function where the generator can come on based on interior temperature. So, if you leave your pets inside, and the temperature climbs above a certain point the generator can fire up and operate the A/C, thereby keeping Fido feeling fine. 
• Driving experience. There’s nothing like driving something like this. With things like big captain’s chairs, an air suspension, and 800 foot-pounds of torque these do feel like you own the whole darned road. Add to that the air horn, and you have a unique driving experience. 
• Surplus storage. There is a lot of storage in these Class A diesel-pushers, and Thor Motor Coach includes a slide-out tray in one of the bays to make it easier to get to items that would otherwise be right in the middle and difficult to reach. Plus, there are a number of hidden storage compartments where you can hide your grandmother’s secret cheesecake recipe, or whatever. More details under Storage. 

 

Challenges

• Intimidating size. A lot of people are rightly nervous about driving anything this big, especially when you think that many owners also tow a vehicle behind the rig. Truthfully, it doesn’t take long to get used to this after all. 
• Schwintek slide-outs. I was rather surprised to see Schwintek slide mechanisms being used. I had previously thought these were mostly for lightweight slides as most rigs with slides this large either use hydraulic or power ram-style actuators. 
• Drawer quality. For something at this price point, I was also surprised to see stapled drawers. I’ve seen some other brands with tongue-and-groove drawer builds, which is a higher quality of cabinet making. 

 

Best For

• If you dream of full-time RV living, this is potentially what you dream about. These large, luxurious rigs are iconic travelers. 
• If you’re bringing the grandchildren along this could be a good choice with a power-operated drop-down bed over the cockpit.

 

Key Areas We Evaluate for RV Buyers

Sleeping Space

True to the premium nature of the Aria 3702, there is a full king-size bed. That bed has a power-lift mechanism to raise the head of the bed up to almost vertical. (So, you could sit there and read RV reviews for hours in comfort.) There’s also a TV in the master as well as a fireplace. So, if your spouse says something and you want to retreat to a place of solace, this is it. 

Meanwhile that spouse can be relegated to the bed over the cockpit, which is remarkably well hidden. But, at the touch of a button, it lowers down. Humor aside, it’s also not a bad place to sleep. It has  a slatted base that adds to the cushioned feel. There is also a telescoping ladder to get up here, but keep in mind that it’s stored in the bedroom. (So, your better half will be able to decide if you should have it.) 

Lastly, the example we saw had a dinette where the table pushes down. You could make this a bed, but that space might be best left to younger travelers. 

Of course, nobody would judge you if you included the power-operated recliners in the sleeping category, as they power down almost completely flat — and have heat and massage functionality. I could relax here happily. (But, as you may be able to tell, I’m also quite adept at saying dumb things, which increases my chances of sleeping in timeout areas.) However you get here though, it’s not a bad place to be. 

 

 

Bathroom

The mid-bath in the Aria 3702 is quite nice, but frankly, it isn’t as very lavish as some of the larger motorhomes with baths across the back of the rig. Still, there is plenty of space in here to accomplish what you need to. It’s even large enough to enable you to change clothes. 

Also, I like that Thor Motor Coach includes an Oxygenics shower head. This is a shower head that many of us install immediately. However, in the case of the Aria 3702, Thor Motor Coach went ahead and did it for us — a quality move. 

 

 

Living Area

As you would expect in a rig of this price point, the living area of the Aria 3702 is nicely done. The air conditioning is ducted so that it’s no obtrusive at all. It’s also what is referred to as a whisper-ducted system. Happily, this name really fits. 

Opposite the theater seats and that dinette is a big TV on a televator that comes rising out of a cabinet. There’s a surprise here, too, with a pull-out desk. You could wire in a computer and use that big TV to get some work done or, potentially, use it for gaming as well. (I don’t judge.)

Something you can only find on a rig of the Aria 3702’s caliber is heated tile floors. Towable RVs have much more flex in their frames, so tile doesn’t work well there. But these big, hefty frames allow you to also use actual tile floors. I was also impressed to see that Thor Motor Coach included a few spare tiles in the event that you drop a pickle jar and break one. 

Something I have never seen before in a motorhome is the provision for securing child safety seats. This is something that surprises some owners when they realize they can’t bring the very youthful campers because there’s no provision to accommodate their seats. Fortunately, that’s not true here — and kudos to Thor Motor Coach for including them. 

 

 

Kitchen

This kitchen in the Aria 3702 has no propane whatsoever, so cooking is done via an induction cook top. There’s also a very large microwave — one as large as in a nicer home kitchen. Another thing to like is the large residential refrigerator with ice and water in the door. There is a whole-RV water filter as well. What this means is that the water in the fridge (and everywhere else) goes through that filter whether it comes from the holding tanks or the city. 

Another really neat feature is a slide-out set of drawers. The entire drawer cabinet slides out from under the main cabinet. This adds to the already-substantial counter space. The drawers here are also pretty deep.

 

 

Four-Season Capabilities

Like most RVs these larger models do best when they’re kept above freezing. While there is insulation around water tanks, these aren’t well-suited to camping when temps get much below freezing. 

 

Storage Space

One of the reasons you buy a Class A diesel-pusher is for storage. Honestly, there is so much storage in the basement of these you could almost rent it out to friends. What’s more, this has a sliding tray in one of the storage bays to make getting to things even easier. 

Further, there are a ton of overhead cabinets, closets and drawers inside the RV. If you’ve read about people downsizing when they hit the road, they likely don’t have this RV. You may have to buy more stuff just to fill all the compartments. Well, okay, maybe that’s an exaggeration, but there is a tremendous amount of storage in here. 

 

 

Closing Notes on the Aria 3702

Driving Experience

As mentioned in the features, there is a lot to like about the Freightliner chassis. While it might seem that these are very large and intimidating, a bit of time behind the wheel will tell a different story. 

The suspension in this RV is an air suspension, able to smooth out bumps and jolts and provide a rather isolated ride like a 1956 Coupe de’ Ville. There are also cameras around the RV to give you a good view of who or what is around you. And you’re also sitting in very comfortable captain’s chairs. As a bonus, the navigator’s seat features a power reclining mechanism. (So, it might be tough to keep them awake.)

Something unique here is a power-operated mechanism that lifts the floor of the step well at the entry door to become even with the floor of this RV. This seems more reliable than the sliding floor section in some of these Class A motorhomes, and the material Thor Motor Coach chose is the same solid surface material as used in the counter tops. Nice. 

 

 

Pros and Cons

While a lot of RVs talk about luxurious this and that, there’s really no comparison to a Class A for a premium experience. Driving these, with the enormous windshields and high-up driving position, is a great way to see the USA. You are also very elevated above the road, so the whole driving experience is rather plush. 

But the downside to this is that you are driving a big bus with all the cost of maintenance, tires, and all of that inherent with this platform. Also, only 100 watts of solar literally is nothing but a disappointment — it won’t compensate for any use. Either go in with a few hundred watts or don’t bother. 

I was also really surprised to see Schwintek slide mechanisms, as written. 

However, altogether you get a very pleasant place to be with the ability to accommodate guests in the over-cockpit power lift bed, which is really well integrated into the cockpit. (It might surprise some that it’s even there.) Overall, the Aria 3702 is a nice place to call home, wherever you park it. 

 

A Note on the RV Trader Review Process

RV Trader asked RV shoppers what was most important to them in their RV buying process. Potential buyers — like you — helped us to identify a list of six key areas that camping and travel enthusiasts always look at when they’re searching for the perfect RV: sleeping space, bathroom, living area, four-season capabilities, and storage space.

The RV Trader team then got to work providing you with honest and unbiased evaluations. If you’re wondering, that’s where I came in. As an RV expert and enthusiast, I provide an honest look at RVs from an RV industry insider perspective.