"Old" is "new" again: Winnebago rolls out retro Brave

For some of us, our minds can still clearly picture the classic Winnebago Brave motorhomes that plied the nations highways and campgrounds decades ago. If you like the retro look, here's a look at Winnebago's revitalization of the Brave -- coming to a highway or campground (again) near you.

Fleetwood's revamped Excursion may be the family "entry" Class A diesel rig

If you're in the market for a first-time Class A diesel pusher motorhome, Fleetwood would like you to look over their updated Excursion motorhome.

It's of particular interest to those with more than just solo RVers or couples – there's a bit of room for extra folks. No, this is not just a "flip the dining room table down to sleep" rig (although that's included, too), but bunks for the younger set. We're intrigued to see how the phrase, "optional hide-a-loft drop-down queen bed," plays out in the real world.

Here's a bit more "news release speak," to consider:

“Excursion appeals to both the first time diesel buyer, and veteran RVers looking for a better value and stronger feature set,” said John Draheim, President of Fleetwood RV. “The new 35E provides the additional sleeping capacity and storage space that families need with the value and durability they expect from a Fleetwood.”

As to that "storage space" promise. You'll find room to stash more stuff with a seating and storage bench in the bedroom, storage across the rear wall and pass-through storage in the exterior compartments. Should you dirty yourself up putting it all away, an optional washer/dryer gives owners the convenience of doing laundry as you scoot down the RV road of life.

For the 2015 model year, all Excursion models were upgraded to feature flush-mount windows, LED accent lights on the front headlights and new exterior graphics and colors.

For more information on Fleetwood RV, call 1-800-322-8216 or visit www.fleetwoodrv.com.

Winnebago introduces 2014 Solei diesel pusher motorhome

 Note: Take a video tour. See below.

Winnebago Industries has debuted its 2014 Solei diesel pusher motorhome. The RV is available in 34-foot and 38-foot models and rides atop a Freightliner XCS chassis with a 340-hp Cummins diesel engine with a six-speed Allison transmission. Its softer side comes through in the polished Corian galley countertops, coffee-glazed cabinetry, LED ceiling lights, and upscale entertainment features including a few that are innovative.

And, with Smart Storage as an integral part of its two floorplans, RVers will have ample of room to bring plenty of their belongings.

Its highlights, as noted in a Winnebago news release:

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

The suggested base retail price on the 38R is $216,068.