For the last 18 years, if you wanted a Class B motorhome from Airstream, your only option was something based on the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. Now, the RV manufacturer has something new called the Rangeline Touring Coach, which builds on the bones of the Ram ProMaster 3500. This is the first time Airstream has used the ProMaster platform.
On the outside, the Airstream emphasizes a somewhat understated appearance compared to many motorhomes. That was done by design, as the company wanted to present the Rangeline as something more akin to a passenger vehicle than a full-service camper. Even the external joints are hidden from view, hidden either under the van or behind panels that look like pieces of exterior trim. That said, it’s hard to hide the roof-mounted air conditioner at the rear, but even the vans equipped with the optional pop-top roof look hidden.
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Stepping inside, you’ll find a compact kitchen with a 3.2 cubic foot refrigerator, small freezer, sink, and dedicated space for a microwave. There is no built-in hob, but a storable electric hob is available for counter-mounting. The small wet bath has a toilet, sink and shower, located opposite the kitchen.
The back of the van lowers into the bed and storage with a fold-out bed that can be stored throughout the day. With the optional pop-top, there is an additional sleeping area with a 78-inch by 50-inch bed. At the front, the driver’s and passenger’s seats rotate backwards to face the second row of travel seats with seat belts. A folding table between the two serves as a dining area.
Electric power comes from a 270Ah lithium battery and a 2,000 watt power inverter. 200 watts of solar power is also available. The van is capable of four seasons, although it does not use an LP tank or diesel. The heater for hot air and water uses fuel from a 24 gallon ProMaster gas tank. A small 2.8 kW generator also feeds the Ram tank to power the air conditioner when it is not connected to shore power. The Rangeline carries 28 gallons of fresh water, 19 gallons of gray water, and 12 gallons of black water.
The RV’s beating heart is the Pentastar’s 3.6-liter V6 engine, producing 276 horsepower (206 kilowatts). It’s a front-wheel drive layout, sending power to the ground via a 9-speed automatic transmission. Airstream says the van can tow 3,500 pounds.
The initial MSRP for the Airstream Rangeline Touring Coach is $131,882. That’s a lot less than the Interstate 19 Airstream made from the Sprinter, but Airstream President Bob Wheeler told reporters during a media preview that the Ram won’t be replacing Mercedes-Benz in the lineup. In fact, he stressed that more Sprinter-based products are in the works.
As for the Rangeline, it is now available to order. The new Class B motorhome will make its public debut on September 14 at the Hershey RV Show in Pennsylvania.
