Blog

  • Introducing the New Travato

    Introducing the Travato, the newest Class B motorhome to join the Winnebago Touring Coach lineup.  At 20’ long, the Travato is unbelievably agile, while still offering a full-feature RV experience that is perfect for the adventurous explorer.  The 59G, featuring the Ram ProMaster chassis, will please value-conscious enthusiasts with its amazing fuel efficiency.  With swivel cab seats, LED ceiling lights, standard touch-screen navigation, a split dinette, and an abundance of features, the Travato delivers a whole lot of fun for less. 

    Highlights:
    ·  Ram ProMaster chassis with gas engine and estimated 16 to 18 mpg on the highway.
    ·  Best in class cab ergonomics, visability and safety features
    ·  Rear access double doors
    ·  Full-featured RV, perfect for two people
    ·  Awning with LED lights
    ·  LED ceiling lights – reduce energy consumption by up to 70 percent, extending battery life when dry camping
    ·  Corner double bed, portion of bed flips up against sidewall to allow for bicycles or other large items, access from rear doors.
    ·  Full height roller, tambour style bath door
    ·  Powered entrance step
    ·  Swivel cab seats
    ·  First in class 3-point seat belts on forward facing bench seat
    ·  Full-featured galley
    ·  MCD blackout roller shades
    ·  Available retracting screen door

    ·  U-Connect 5.0 Infotainment Center with touch screen, voice command and steering wheel controls features AM/FM radio with CD/DVD player, SiriusXM satellite radio with 12 month trial subscription, hands free Bluetooth, iPod®/iPhone® audio integration, speed adjusted audio levels, compass, color rearview camera, and integrated GPS with navigation for safe and easy routing and turn-by-turn voice guidance

    59G Floorplan
    The innovative 59G is for active people who want to take their toys with them.  This unique floorplan features a rear double bed that is designed to flip up, out of the way to allow for large items like bicycles to be stored inside and making them easily accessible through the large double doors at the rear of the coach.  A rear corner wet bath occupies the rear passenger side. The 59G features a compact, yet fully functional galley and deep wardrobe.  The forward-facing bench seat with two 3-point seat belts and dining table and another bench seat that may be used while camping, may all be combined into a Flex Bed system to allow for additional sleeping.  The front cab seats swivel for convenient television viewing.
  • Winnebago Industries Toolbox Distributed to Dealers

    To build a better motorhome, start with the right tools –

    FOREST CITY, IOWA, November11, 2013 — Winnebago Industries’ motorhome dealerships recently received a “Toolbox” display, along with a supply of matching brochures.  The Toolbox contains 11 sample pieces that represent the distinct advantages of Winnebago Industries, including exclusive vertical integration capabilities that enable the production of most of the parts used to create a motorhome to be manufactured in the Company’s facilities to exacting standards..  From the multi-density foam found in the Company’s Stitchcraft furniture, to the precision formed steel from the Chassis Weld facility, to the industry-leading interlocking joint design of the sidewalls built by the CAPCO division – each of the 11 pieces in the toolbox represent the Company’s advanced manufacturing processes that are used to create the Winnebago, Itasca, and Winnebago Touring Coach motorhomes.  A brochure accompanies the toolbox that explains each piece within the toolbox.  This brochure is then provided to retail customers as a takeaway to review later.
    “The Toolbox and brochure are a powerful sales tool that allow our dealers to tell the story of our quality manufacturing,” said Winnebago Industries Marketing and Sales Promotion Manager Kelli Harms.  “By helping to explain the how’s and why’s of what we do, the Toolbox is a powerful resource to help a consumer make their purchase decision.”   
    About Winnebago Industries, Inc. – “The Most Recognized Name In Motor Homes®“, is a leading U.S. manufacturer of recreation vehicles, which are used primarily in leisure travel and outdoor recreation activities. The Company and its subsidiary build quality motor homes, travel trailers, fifth wheel products, and transit buses under the Winnebago, Itasca, Winnebago Touring Coach, SunnyBrook and Metro brand names. Winnebago Industries has received the Quality Circle Award from the Recreation Vehicle Dealers Association every year since the award’s inception in 1996.
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  • The 2014 Sightseer® and Sunova® – Take the Scenic Route!

    The Sightseer and Sunova are an invitation to great value and good times in Class A comfort. Four floorplans deliver a perfect living experience built to Winnebago Industries® exacting standards. This year, LED ceiling lights bring energy efficiency to a coach already loaded with premium features such as Corian® galley countertops, MCD solar/blackout roller shades, and Ultraleather™ cab seats. The 35G delivers exceptional travel flexibility with the inLounge™ extendable sectional sofa and movable inTable™. For additional sleeping space, add the StudioLoft™ drop-down cab bed to any floorplan.



    Highlights:
    – New inLounge extendable sectional sofa and moveable, multi-function inTable (35G model)
    – New Radio/rearview monitor with 6” touch screen, color rear camera, iPod®/MP3 input
    – Corian galley countertops and Corian sink covers.
    – MCD Duo Solar/Blackout roller shades throughout coach
    – Ultraleather™ cab seats, sofas and lounge chairs
    – LED ceiling lights – reduce energy consumption by up to 70 percent, extending battery life when dry camping
    – Power mirrors with defrost and integrated side view cameras
    – Powered patio awning with metal wrap and integrated LED patio lighting
    – Residential 30” stainless steel microwave/convection oven
    – Defroster fans for windshield
    – Porcelain toilet with sprayer on all models
    – Convenient LPG accessory connection in the patio area
    – Full-body paint
    – Ford® F53 super-duty V10 SEFI Triton® engine, 22,000-lb. GVWR, 22.5” tires and stylized aluminum wheels
    – Available features:
         – SiriusXM™ satellite radio with 6” touch screen monitor, handheld remote, iPod interface cable/connector
         – King bed (not available on 30A)
         – Ideal Rest® Nouveau™ digital control mattress with remote (standard on 35G)
         – Studio Loft™ drop-down cab bedo Large capacity, two-door refrigerator/freezer with icemaker (30A)
         – Four-door refrigerator/freezer with icemaker (33C, 35G and 36V)
         – Vinyl floorcovering throughout (cab area and slideouts will have carpet)
         – Exterior entertainment center with 32” HDTV

    30A floorplan

    The 30A lives large for its compact size. The double slide 30A features an innovative extendable U-shaped dinette – a hybrid couch/dinette that offers convenience, comfort and style – and seats up to six! Plus, there’s a large mid-coach TV that slides out for optimal viewing even when the slideout is not extended. The lounge area also features a recliner with an available Euro recliner with built-in footrest optional. The in-line galley is fully stocked with everything you need to make the perfect meal. The enclosed bathroom is spacious, with the rear bedroom featuring a large wardrobe, chest of drawers and a walk-around queen size bed. Additional sleeping space is available in the new StudioLoft in the cab area.

    33C floorplan

    This triple slide floorplan features a large driver’s side slide that expands the entire galley and dinette, with a flat floor slide found across from the dinette, and a queen bed slideout in the rear. The large galley offers a three-burner range top, microwave/convection oven, refrigerator/freezer (a larger, four-door refrigerator/freezer with ice maker is optional), pantry and a double sink. Our own BenchMark dinette is another highlight of the 33C, with a buffet-dining module with chairs and a large, retractable TV just above the buffet optional. The Comfort Sofa/Sleeper and recliner or available Rest Easy sofa and Euro recliner are seating options in the lounge area. An optional washer/dryer is also
    available. The 33C offers a spacious bathroom, and a generous bedroom area with a king bed optional. Additional sleeping space is available in the new StudioLoft in the cab area.

    35G floorplan

    With three slideouts, an innovative inLounge Extendable Sectional Sofa/Sleeper, a movable inTable, large TV and an optional fireplace, this floorplan creates a spacious and comfortable lounge area. Additional sleeping space is available in the new StudioLoft in the cab area. A rear slideout powered queen walk-around bed, or optional powered king bed, with nightstands are the perfect complement to the vast wardrobe and chest of drawers storage and optional stackable washer/dryer on the opposite wall. An additional TV is also located in the bedroom. A large split bath with sliding doors on both sides provides privacy from the front and rear of the coach. A fully functional kitchen is available with either a large pantry and 2-door refrigerator/freezer or optional large 4-door refrigerator/freezer with icemaker. A three-burner range with oven is also available.

    36V Floorplan

    The BenchMark dinette, Extendable Sectional Sofa, queen or available king bed, his and hers wardrobes, chest of drawers, spacious split bath, full galley and optional StudioLoft bed allow for plenty of living and sleeping space in this dual-slideout floorplan.

  • RVDA Quality Circle Awarded to Thor Motor Coach

    <!–[if supportFields]> DATE @ “MMMM d, yyyy” <![endif]–>October 30, 2013<!–[if supportFields]><![endif]–> (Elkhart, In.) – Leading motorhome manufacturer, Thor Motor Coach has earned the prestigious Quality Circle Award for 2013 from the Recreation Vehicle Dealers Association (RVDA).
    “Without our valued dealers and retail customers, we cannot succeed,” said Dana Simon, Vice President of Sales at Thor Motor Coach.   “Continued effectiveness of programslike the “Shield of Protectionhelp us strive to be the best partner in the business. The key to Thor Motor Coach’s success are innovative products offered at a competitive price, all backed by superior sales, parts and warranty support.  Game changing products like the new Axis & Vegas RUV’s (Recreational Utility Vehicles) are proof of this commitment to our partners. ”
    “We are honored to be recognized by our dealers for this significant award and thank them for their support and partnership,” said Ron Davidson, VP of Operations for Thor Motor Coach.  “Our comprehensive “Shield of Protection” program has been instrumental in receiving this award.”

    “The program starts with our Gold Star Inspection, a detailed inspection which produces consistent and superior quality products to our dealers,” continued Davidson. “The remaining components deliver exceptional customer support after the sale, which makes ownership of a Thor Motor Coach product so desirable.  The Concierge Connection provides new owners with a personal Thor Motor Coach contact for assistance as needed.  The Rapid Response parts initiative provides that essential parts are stocked at all times for quick shipment.  Single Source warranty cuts down on the hassle of dealing with multiple vendors.  And lastly, 24/7 Factory Support delivers technical support day or night from our highly trained Thor Motor Coach technicians. “



    About Thor Motor Coach
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  • Leisure Travel Vans Debuts 2014 ‘Free Spirit TE’

    Winkler, Manitoba-based Triple E RV announced the launch of a 23-foot Free Spirit TE luxury touring coach in its Leisure Travel Vans lineup.
    Built for convenience and flexibility, the Free Spirit TE features dual sliding doors, room for seven and two fuel-efficient powertrain options, according to a press release.
    Exclusive to Leisure Travel Vans, the 2014 Free Spirit TE offers dual sliding doors, giving passengers “unmatched comfort and convenience,” the company said. The coach also offers four Ultraleather seats up front, room for three on the rear sofa, a passenger side screen door and TVs in both the front and rear.
    Upscale amenities include handcrafted solid-wood cabinetry, French-seamed upholstery and Corian Private Collection countertops. The attention to detail continues to the exterior, including an optional new roof trim kit that gives the coach an even sleeker look.
    Built on a Mercedes Benz Sprinter 3500 dual rear wheel chassis, the Free Spirit TE is powered by either a 3.0-liter V6 BlueTEC Turbo Diesel with 188hp and 325 foot-pound of torque, or the new 2.1-liter, 4-cylinder BlueTEC Turbo Diesel with 161hp and 265 foot-pound of torque and 7-speed transmission. The Free Spirit TE provides an estimated 18-22 mpg.
    The Free Spirit TE also features bi-xenon headlamps, a multi-function steering wheel, front and rear Parktronics parking sensors, blind spot monitoring, collision prevention assist, lane keeping assist and high beam assist.
    With MSRPs start at $119,600 USD, the Free Spirit TE begins production in early 2014 and will be distributed throughout Leisure Travel Vans dealers in North America.
    Take a virtual tour of the Free Spirit TE on the new Leisure Travel Vans website. To create a more interactive experience, the new website features 3D floorplans, tour videos and high-quality photo galleries. There is also a new ‘compare all’ tool to help users see how the Free Spirit TE stacks up against the rest of the LTV product lineup.
    For more information, visit www.leisurevans.com.
  • B&W Debuting 20,000-Pound Companion Hitch

    B&W Trailer Hitches has introduced its new RVB3500 Companion fifth-wheel aftermarket trailer hitch sporting a 20,000-pound capacity. According to a press release, the new Companion hitch employs B&W’s unique Turnoverball mounting design that promotes quick, single-point hitch installation. The quiet riding hitch is designed to handle today’s heavier trailers and pickups with varying truck bed configurations.
    B&W’s earlier Companion model had an 18,000-pound towing capacity, but remained virtually unaltered since its inception in 1998. The new 20,000-pound rated Companion fifth-wheel trailer hitch has all the features that RV owners and dealers favored in its predecessor.
    “The combination of product quality and reliability, along with B&W’s reputation among customers, have made the B&W Companion fifth wheel hitch our most popular,” Don Collins, president, DC’s RV Campers. “With its 20,000-pound towing capacity, enhanced height adjustment and flexible installation design, we anticipate that the new Companion will be even more commercially successful than its forerunner.”
    The new Companion hitch features two adjustable pivot arms that can be oriented horizontally, relative to the truck’s axle, and vertically to allow trailers to clear the taller truck bed walls now on many late-model pickups. The new hitch also features adjustable plastic feet that allow the hitch to adapt and mount snugly to an ever-increasing variety of truck bed corrugation patterns.
    The entire system is made of top-quality American steel and is finished top to bottom with a tough, durable powder coating. Once installed, the substructure leaves the truck bed totally unobstructed. The substructure’s socket accommodates any of seven different Turnoverball-style hitches, including the RVB3500 Companion.
    The single-post hitch base drops easily into the socket and, once married to the substructure uses adaptable leveling feet for stabilization and bolts to lock it securely into position. Pivot arms are also fully adjustable with a height range of 16 1/4 inches to 18 1/4 inches. The arms feature thick polyurethane bushings that allow the locked coupler head to pivot effortlessly, and the coupler head itself is fitted with a hydraulic dampening mechanism that absorbs road shock and tilts up to seven degrees. The whole hitch system operates so smoothly and quietly that drivers and passengers sometimes have the sensation that there is no trailer being towed.
    “Our new 20,000-pound rated Companion hitch is a response to recent trends in the structure and shape of truck beds, along with the increasing lengths and weights of trailers,” Cleat Stockebrand, product design engineer for B&W Trailer Hitches, said. “The new Companion hitch base takes advantage of the structural features of late model truck beds, optimizing the capacity of the hitch and giving customers the needed adjustments to accommodate their towing needs.”
    For more information visit http://www.Turnoverball.com/.
    Courtesy:  RVBusiness.com
  • First West Coast Display Of Trend And Travato, New Minnie Winnie 22R On Display

    FOREST CITY, Iowa, Oct. 14, 2013 /PRNewswire/ — Winnebago Industries, Inc. (NYSE:WGO), a leading U.S. manufacturer of recreation vehicles, is showcasing several new and exciting products at the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association’s 61st California RV Show in Pomona, CA, going on now through October 20, 2013, including the Solei 38R, Minnie Winnie 22R, Trend and Travato motorhomes.
    The new Solei 38R floorplan is on display for the first time at a retail event.  Providing a luxury Class A diesel at an affordable price, the Solei is built on the Freightliner® XCS straight-rail chassis which provides a solid foundation with a Cummins 340-hp diesel engine and Allison six-speed transmission delivering the power.  Diesel pushers are known for storage and the Solei ups the ante with its Smart StorageTM design that pushes capacity even further.  Inside, the Solei has fine amenities such as polished Corian galley countertops, coffee-glazed cabinetry, upscale entertainment features, and LED lighting.  The 38R features two slideout rooms with an exceptional bath-and-a-half floorplan.  A rear master suite provides a private rear bathroom and a queen-size bed with large wardrobe and a 28″ HDTV that flips down from the ceiling for easy viewing.  The 38R also includes a Flex Bed system that provides bunk beds, wardrobe, or converts into a dinette.  Also standard in the 38R is a half bath, Comfort Sofa Sleeper, BenchMark dinette with Dream DinetteTM table, full-featured galley with pantry and residential refrigerator, and large 50″ LED HDTV above the optional fireplace.

    Also debuting at the show is the new Minnie Winnie 22R Class C built on the Ford E350 chassis.  The 22R provides great function and full amenities in a compact size. With a rear corner bed, and U-shaped dinette that folds into a bed and overhead cab bed, the 22R has the ability to sleep up to 6 people.  The 22R also features a large wardrobe and large exterior rear trunk storage.

    The Pomona Show is also the first West Coast showing of the new Trend and Travato.  Winnebago Industries is the first to build a Class C motorhome on the Ram ProMaster chassis with the world renowned V6 Pentastar gas engine and 9,350 lb. GVWR, six air bags in the cab for added safety, and best in class cab ergonomics and visibility.  The nicely affordable new Winnebago Trend delivers peppy, fuel-efficiency and comfortable living space for up to six people.  Both 24′ floorplans feature a powered StudioLoftTM bed that lifts tight to the ceiling to conserve space during the day.  Other features include energy-saving LED lighting and available soft, easy-to-clean UltraleatherTM furniture.  The Trend features industry-leading three-point seat belts in the dinette.  The 23B offers front swivel cab seats, a sofa/bed and dinette, a large, full-featured mid-coach galley and rear bath. Two large sleeping spaces provide comfortable sleeping for four adults with the Queen size front loft bed and a King size Flex Bed System. The 23L also features swivel cab seats expanding the living area of the motor home, as well as a forward-facing dinette on the driver’s side and a side-facing dinette bench seat on the curb side of the unit. Together these comfortable seating spaces convert into one convenient sleeping space.  Additional sleeping space is available with the rear corner bed and front Studio Loft bed.  A mid-coach L-shaped galley is full featured and has a forward facing sink.

    The Travato is the latest Class B motorhome to join the Winnebago Touring Coach lineup. The Travato is also built on the Ram ProMaster chassis. At just under 21′ long, the Travato is unbelievably agile while still offering a full-feature RV experience that is perfect for the adventurous explorer. Travato also provides value-conscious enthusiasts amazing fuel efficiency.  With swivel cab seats, LED ceiling lights, standard touch-screen navigation, a split dinette, and an abundance of features, the Travato delivers a whole lot of fun.  The Travato is the only product in its industry segment to provide a 3-point seat belt harness for passengers in the dinette.  The innovative 59G floorplan features a rear double bed that is designed to flip up out of the way to allow for large items like bicycles to be stored securely inside and making them easily accessible through the large double doors at the rear of the coach.  The Flex Bed system allows for additional sleeping in the front of the unit as well.  
    Feel free to stop by Winnebago Industries’ display in Booth # 3001, 4001 and 1021, where you will find the full complement of 2014 Winnebago, Itasca, Winnebago Touring Coach and SunnyBrook motorhome and towable products on display. 

    About Winnebago Industries, Inc. – “The Most Recognized Name In Motor Homes®”, is a leading U.S. manufacturer of recreation vehicles, which are used primarily in leisure travel and outdoor recreation activities. The Company and its subsidiary build quality motor homes, travel trailers, fifth wheel products, and transit buses under the Winnebago, Itasca, Winnebago Touring Coach, SunnyBrook and Metro brand names. Winnebago Industries has received the Quality Circle Award from the Recreation Vehicle Dealers Association every year since the award’s inception in 1996.
  • The 2014 Winnebago Forza™ − Go Forward!

    It is time to go diesel with the all-new, pleasantly priced Winnebago Forza. The Freightliner® XCS straight-rail chassis provides a solid foundation with a Cummins® 340-hp diesel engine and Allison® six-speed transmission delivering the power. Diesel pushers are known for storage and the Forza ups the ante with its Smart Storage™ design that pushes capacity even further. Inside, you will appreciate fine amenities such as polished Corian® galley countertops, coffee-glazed cabinetry, upscale entertainment features, and LED lighting. Take a stroll through the 34T and 38R and you will already be planning your first adventure in your new Winnebago Forza.

    Highlights:
    – All-new Class A diesel pusher series
    – Two floorplans – the 34T and 38R
    – Attractive price
    – Loaded with standard features
    o Powered driver and passenger seats in leatherette
    o Radio/rearview color monitor system with 6″ touch screen
    o Powered mirrors with defrost/side-view cameras
    o Powered MCD visor shade for the front windshield
    o MCD blackout shades in the coach area
    o Soft vinyl ceilings
    o LED ceiling lights
    o Vinyl tile flooring throughout
    o Polished Corian galley countertops and tiled backsplash
    o Home theater sound bar with DVD/CD player
    o Full-coach water filtration system
    o 6,000-watt Cummins Onan® diesel generator
    o 2,000-watt inverter/charger
    o Roof A/C with heat pump
    o Hydraulic leveling jacks
    o Dual-glazed Contour™ coach windows
    o Heated holding tank compartment
    o Powered patio awning with LED lighting
    o Exterior wash station
    o Low profile allows unit to fit through 12′ door opening while having amazing storage of up to 228 cubic feet (38R)

    – Available features:
    o Fireplace, +Lounger, powered StudioLoft™ (34T only), stackable washer/dryer, automatic HDTV satellite antenna system, satellite radio, and Ideal Rest® Noveau™ air sleep system

    34T floorplan
    The new 34T is a real value in a fully equipped Class A diesel motorhome. This beautifully appointed coach offers a driver’s side slide with the unique inLounge™ extendable U-shaped sectional sofa/sleeper in leatherette, versatile inTable™ movable drop-leaf table, and a passenger side slide galley with island sink. The 34T also features a large private bath, queen-size walk-around bed, and a large wardrobe.

    38R floorplan
    The 38R features two slideout rooms with an exceptional bath-and-a-half floorplan. A rear master suite provides a private rear bathroom and a queen-size bed with large wardrobe and a 28″ HDTV that flips down from the ceiling for easy viewing. The 38R also includes a Flex Bed system that provides bunk beds, wardrobe, or converts into a dinette, whichever you choose. Also standard in the 38R is a half bath, Comfort Sofa Sleeper, BenchMark® dinette with Dream Dinette™ table, full-featured galley with pantry and residential refrigerator, and large 50″ HDTV above the optional fireplace.

  • Lifestyle Luxury RV – Strong Consumer and Dealer Response and Quick Turns

    LIFESTYLE Luxury RV, manufactured in Middlebury, Indiana, assembled a team of the industry’s best and brightest who are putting their expertise to work to give the RV industry a new choice for resort-ready luxury fifth-wheels. The company focuses on creating the ideal year-round living experience through construction that’s second to none and by delivering a higher level of service to both dealers and customers.

    Recognition came early for Lifestyle Luxury RV as the brand gained notoriety at the National Recreational Vehicles Industry Association (RVIA) trade show in December of 2012.  Winner of both RV Business Magazines’ Top RV Debuts for 2013 and RV Pro Magazines’ Best of Show for 2013, the product was off and running. Since that time, as dealerships have steadily grown across the country, Lifestyle has also become a consumer favorite.  This consumer appreciation is shown in sales, with over 40 percent of the Lifestyle Luxury RVs having been sold since the brand was founded in February of 2012.

    Family owned La Mesa RV, with 12 dealerships nationwide in the states of California, New Mexico, Arizona and Florida, is having great success with the Lifestyle Luxury RV.
    “The Lifestyle is doing well,” said family member and Head of Towable Sales, Jason Kimbrell. “Certain categories have exceeded expectations. I don’t think anyone thought there was the market there is for high end fifth-wheels like the Lifestyle.”

    Kimbrell spoke to the type of consumer purchasing Lifestyle. “This is definitely a niche product.” For the savvy fifth-wheel buyer, the difference is clear — the difference is LIFESTYLE Luxury RV.

    For more information, visit Lifestyle LuxuryRV, or contact Lifestyle Luxury RV at 574.825.5578.