Leisure Travel Vans Unity VS Airstream Atlas. Features & cost comparisons

[@quazelkopf]

I just bought a 2022 Airstream Atlas Tommy Bahama. This same discussion could be had comparing a Porsche Macan to a high end South Korean SUV and asking why the Porsche is so much more. I’ve always heard it’s only worth as much as someone is willing to pay for it. The Atlas is booking orders 1 year from now and the Airstream showrooms are sold out. The new Corvette is 4 times less expensive than a Ferrari with similar features and performance, but Ferrari’s have that cache and so does Airstream and people will pay a premium for that intangible. I have seen both the LTV and Airstream Atlas and the quality of materials, fit and finish and general presence of the Airstream seems to be at a higher level.

[@Pagosa]

Agree, the airstream folks and LTV folks are like Harley folks. Very brand loyal. The only difference is that MB builds the chassis for all the small class C's and the materials that go inside are the difference makers. I would love if LTV added some options the Atlas has, like airbags. Safe Travels!

[@stevenbartell8065]

Great video. What you didn't touch upon is the quality of construction. The B+ series from Airstream, Coach House, and Pleasure-Way are premium brands due to their construction methods. Example: LTV uses particle board in many places and the aforementioned brands don't. I currently have a Pleasure-Way XLMB and it starts with a steel super structure (floor, walls, ceiling). LTV walls and ceiling are vacuum bonded. Vacuum bonding is less costly and doesn't measure up to steel construction. The warranty on Airstream and Coach House are three years and transferable. The warranty on Pleasure-Way RV's are five years. The LTV warranty is just two years and not transferable. LTV doesn't have the same level of confidence as the others or they would offer a better warranty. I still believe LTV builds are very good product. I just can't put them in the same league as Airstream, Coach House, and Pleasure-Way. I agree with you Airstream is overpriced.

[@gosman949]

Coach House I believe doesn't have a dealer network.

[@Pagosa]

My argument would be that with the 3500 MB chassis, the OCCC is so low already, and LTV does a great job of putting the lighter materials in places that are not a quality touch, feel or safety issue. I'll take the added OCCC any day over a different material usage in the coach.

[@Detroitblue]

Great Comment

[@JeremiahHexx]

Leisure van is junk. If anything is overpriced, it's the cheaply made Leisure van . Leisure van is famous for their awful customer service btw, where Airstream, their customer service is legendary for taking care of customers. Airstream Atlas 👍⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐....., Leisure Van 👎⭐ - is what it is baby! 😘

[@Pagosa]

I have an airstream Globetrottet as well as the Leisure Travel Van. The build quality is the same, actually using many of the exact same interior parts and vendors. Unequivocally the customer service with Leisure is light years ahead of Airstream. I would invite you to own both as well, to enjoy the best of both worlds.

[@josephmarc6263]

I agree 110% with your assessment. We took delivery of our Unity IB in June and just did our first MB service on it… yes we put 20,000 mile on the coach over the summer! It’s a great product and we love it. Biggest 'gripe'? Everyone wants an LTV and we end up showing it to folks once or twice a week. But, we even enjoy that!

[@Pagosa]

It never gets old when someone is in awe of the LTV!

[@gosman949]

20k miles! Where in the world did you go?

[@quazelkopf]

Your kidding right. You have a Airstream Atlas parked next to a LTV and it is invisible because everyone is in awe of the LTV. In the non RV community 9\10 people know what a Airstream is. You’d be lucky to find 1/10 people that would know LTV, just saying.

[@Pagosa]

@@quazelkopf an Airstream is a trailer to non RV people. LTV has a 3 year waitlist right now and is at the top in B+ size RVs. They do a remarkable marketing job and millions of views on their KZbin. So I would say people would know LTV over Airstream when it comes to the small class C market

[@allenwhitsitt838]

I ordered the LTV, then cancelled and purchased the 2022 Atlas. To each his own, and I am sure I would have been very happy with a LTV, but your review was noticeably skewed to your LTV. I did not buy my Atlas because I had "money to burn" . So in fairness--- I did not pay $100,000 more. I doubt most do. Because of a trade in, sales tax savings and dealer discount, less than half that. Exterior and interior fit and finish on each is very different, so too construction and warranty as some have pointed out. Seamless fiberglass exterior, all electric shades and skylight, fully corniced shades with no exposed edges, Airstream aluminum ceiling and door panels, cabinetry with aluminum corners, underside and framing, Firefly coach control system, VB rear air suspension, every Mercedes option available on the Sprinter chassis i.e. side mirror cameras, felt lining in all interior and exterior compartments, electronic compartment locks, electric waste valves and macerator waste discharge, larger all electric (ac/dc) fridge-you get the point. Finally, some of your comments were just silly. Like the Atlas having a darker shower because it does not have a skylight. With shower lights not dimmed, you could do surgery in the Atlas shower it is so bright. I would not have paid $100K more for the Atlas, however, for well under $50K, the extra features were well worth it to me.

[@Pagosa]

That's great. I do believe any RV is great for each individual taste. I am a bit LTV biased, lol.

[@TheBigWanger]

Excellent comment. Yes Brandon is heavily biased towards LTV and that bias shines bright. But we all believe that what we buy is the best choice in whatever it is, so I get the LTV rah-rah hype. It’s his channel, which I do enjoy and appreciate. So like you I filter out the details which don’t always come to the surface equitably.

[@francetrudelle]

Great, great vid. Pertinent, faire and to the point ! And you are totally right !!! The colors and feel are so much brighter, airier (is that a word ??? French person here). Much less claustrophobic !!! Actually, not claustro... at all ! Love, love, love it !!! ❤

[@Pagosa]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@almatchem2122]

Thanks for the comparison. Comparing Airstream to LTV is like comparing Mercedes to Chevrolet. Airstream uses quality materials, offers items that LTV don’t, like powered everything including window shades, macerator hose reel, skylight, Key FOB button to lock/unlock all its exterior bay doors, side view cameras on both exterior mirrors for left and right turns etc. Everyone isn’t “claustrophobic” and some may prefer a dark color interior. You’re right any one option that comes on a Atlas isn’t worth $100K but together totaled out it might provide a more accurate review. LTV appears to be a good product because of its many options. 2 years ago I looked at the LTV Unity lineup at 2 different locations and was impressed with the product. I had concerns with the wait time (1 yr then) and the lack of dealerships and service centers locations. It’s difficult to provide a review if you only use websites. You might want to go check an RV out in person for a better comparison and to “kick the tires” then you’ll know what it comes with before your reviews. Thanks

[@Pagosa]

I've walked through the Atlas, and my argument would be all of those components that LTV doesn't have as powered are never going to break and will give your coach much more OCCC in a very low OCCC chassis. Anything that is powered is going to break (and Murphy's law says that it will happen at the most inconvenient time). so when the motor on the skylight breaks, will prob be raining, lol. OCCC is the most important luxury that choosing an LTV over the Atlas would give you. Lighter weight, more safe, more stuff you can take to enjoy. Leave the powered items at the factory, as they have the potential to ruin your trip.

[@Detroitblue]

@@Pagosa Wow You arguments msy be true but that is the difference in what you are paying for. What you are really saying is your wallet is not deep enough. Would you choose all wheel drive over two wheel drive? That is also something that might cause problems over time as well. It does not mean you should write off luxury components and accessoires because you are concerned about them breaking.

[@Pagosa]

@@Detroitblue not at all. Literally was on a zoom call with a previous owner of the Atlas and said his window blinds motor broke day one and replaced five times during ownership. Things that shouldn’t be motorized should not be motorized. Shades, skylight, etc. RVs should be fun and stress free. I would pay extra for non motorized shades if it came down to it. RVs are not like cars and any seasoned RVer would tell you to “keep it simple”. Also weight is your enemy with these things.

[@Detroitblue]

@@Pagosa i understand what you are getting at.

[@almatchem2122]

Hi Brandon, thanks for being so engaging! I appreciate and respect your opinion. I own an Airstream Interstate and my only issues, have been thru user error. I prefer automatic systems instead of manual systems. As with anything the end user makes the difference in the longevity of any product…

[@sherifelsharkawy7041]

Great video , excellent companion. Very helpful 👍

[@Pagosa]

Thanks 👍

[@TheBigWanger]

Great point about Atlas skylight is going to break cuz it’s motorized. I’ve ordered my new Mercedes with roll up windows. Thanks for the heads up. Since as you say, the Mercedes electric windows will fail when it’s raining.

[@Pagosa]

Mercedes electric windows and RV electric components are manufactured completely different. All RV parts, motorized or not, are produced by the same companies and built for all brands. They are built for low weight and low price, so will fail eventually. My Mercedes window motors are built to last. Mercedes builds vehicles and RV companies build RVs, so not a really fair comparison. Appreciate the comments ✌️

[@craigfarmer5245]

The E1 lithium option is incredible…both in quality and in price. Like 24 thousand, I mean wow

[@Pagosa]

Crazy. Factory lithium is always so overpriced, but you have it immediately. I'm still a fan of aftermarket install.

[@lanceballew2304]

Great if you can get the LTV after 30 months of wait, New 2023 Airstream RV Atlas Murphy Suite // Arriving OCT from DFW Airstream

[@Pagosa]

Congrats! I bought our Airstream Globetrotter from them. Great service.

[@dickwooden4496]

Would like a comparison to the Airstream Interstate full model series vs single Atlas. Include towing capabilities and floorplans. Thanks

[@Pagosa]

Thanks for the suggestion

[@williamj.dovejr.8613]

If I don't get color choice on the airstream, I go somewhere else and have them paint the mother black.

[@Pagosa]

would be interesting

[@guscerice9130]

Not that it justifies the $100k difference, but doesn't the Atlas have a single piece shell whereas the LTVs have seams where the sides join the roof?

[@Pagosa]

I know they have a difference in construction, but could be a benefit. I've never had an issue with our construction on our LTV, so far so good.

[@dang3585]

I think your numbers are way off or your looking at LTV pricing from several years ago. When I price a comparable LTV MB to an Atlas the real vector was about 10 to 15K not a 100k. If you add all the features that an Atlas has into the build of a Unity the MSRP is in the mid 240s (at least for the remainder of 2022) the Atlas MSRP is around $270k (but some dealers will knock up to 10 percent off of that, some won’t). I think they are both great RVs, both have great resale and high customer satisfaction. I am surprised that the LTV doesn’t have the Firefly system, they have it on the Wonder, but not the Unity which is really head scratching. Similarly I am surprised Airstream doesn’t offer app based control of their Firefly system as many lower competitors have this feature. I agree with the comments in the video about interior choices. I would have liked to see more color options for the cabinets and furniture in the Atlas, particularly lighter cabinets and they should bring back the lux white option and whiteI counter tops. I am guessing because of either supply chain issues or manufacturing efficiency they are basically only making the Atlas in modern griege right now. Buying an RV is a series of compromises we opted for the Airstream Atlas. The dealer experience and better availability were significant factors in our decision. I didn’t want to wait 2 to 3 years for and LTV with a 4 cylinder engine. It will be interesting to see if Airstream and LTV stick with Mercedes when they go to an all 4 cylinder TD Sprinter lineup next year. Asking an awful lot of a 4 cylinder to push one of these vehicles around IMO.

[@Pagosa]

A spec'd out LTV will be about 180k now. Mine was $155k with every option in 2020. There are a few things the Atlas has such as air suspension that is about a $4k aftermarket upgrade, but otherwise I don't think an LTV could get close to an Atlas price tag. The Unity RL has the firefly system, and I would pay more to not have the firefly. Sometimes technology is not your friend and the firefly just adds pain points to basic functions as well as the opportunity to fail too often. LTV is for sure sticking with the MB 4cyl and I'm sure all the other Sprinter based RVs will as well. The new engine is an evolution for better or for worse, so I'm curious how it works out. The Sprinter is a massive profit center for MB, and I can't imagine them switching to this if there wasn't some benefit to them and the consumer.

[@billcleveland3820]

I believe LTV has the Truma AquaGo Comfort Plus and the AS Atlas does not.

[@Pagosa]

Love our Truma

[@brettc4734]

Take a look at Renagade class B+,,, another great alternative with a good build and representation.

[@gosman949]

Renegade is probably a Thor product?

[@Pagosa]

Yes, I plan on looking at all of the alternatives to LTVs including Renegade.

[@Pagosa]

Actually REV, which, much like Thor, has been labeled "profit over quality". Not sure though, as I've never stepped in one.

[@mikeczajka906]

We just ordered an FX and curious if you know what the bathroom door redesign looks like yet?

[@Pagosa]

I don't yet. I spoke with LTV about it a few times and they are building the prototype and will debut it in the '22 model year video. I look forward to seeing what they came up with

[@PRESA25]

Brandon you know a lot of us are waiting for our LTV. Your not helping make this line any shorter! Can you steer them to the airstream please lol

[@Pagosa]

Haha, will do!

[@straycat1674]

I’ll say this, between the two of them I like the atlas more. It all boils down to the rear bathroom area.

[@Pagosa]

The Atlas has some great features for sure.

[@larrygray1557]

I'm in luck! Not tempted by Airstream's single floorplan. Nothing against a murphy bed, but when it is either seating or bed, it just doesn't work. Spouse turns in early, I have nowhere to sit/work.

[@Pagosa]

If you aren’t opposed to a Murphy bed in theory, you will love the LTV FX. The back living room is amazing

[@jamesmillaway4252]

Thanks for helping me out with a decision. Airstream all the way. You sounded like Mr. Garrison from South Park… With the air ride, Compressor, cedar closets, heated tanks, and power recycling sofa… I’ll pay the difference. The people who watch your video, based on the description, are in the market for a B+. We’re doing homework and you didn’t. Thanks.

[@Pagosa]

Leisure’s now have reclining sofa’s. Cedar closets still escape the brand. Glad it was helpful. Happy traveling. Let me know how you like it. Always looking for feedback.

[@Detroitblue]

Would you compare a LTV with a Thor Axis 24.1 .

[@Pagosa]

Plan on doing comparisons to all of the similar units, so stay tuned

[@stevenmargini8248]

I don’t believe you added the cost of the macerate in the LTV

[@Pagosa]

Ah, believe it’s a $900 option

[@ScottyMarinePapa1]

I believe he may have not considered that LTV is made in Canada and Airstream in USA hence you will get more bang for your buck due to the monetary exchange rate US $1.00 = CAD 1.24 and US labor costs more too.

[@Pagosa]

That wouldn't apply as you purchase at dealers in the US, and purchase in US dollars.

[@robertjones6324]

It's the LTV!

[@Pagosa]

yep

[@Realist_McCoy]

I did not like this review. Extremely biased in favor of LTV. I thought it would get better but it didn’t. Video could be renamed to why i have an LTV instead of Atlas.

[@Pagosa]

Agree with you, biased in a good way in the sense I own an LTV and also have spent time in an Atlas and know Atlas owners. Save some $$$ and get an LTV. (I also have an Airstream Globetrotter on order, so a huge Airstream fan in general.)

[@pow6574]

Very biased review. So what? You like the LTV more. That is why they make different kinds of vehicles. Either your income, or the things you value in your value system are different from other folks. You didn't compare the cost of materials, construction, dealership network, and a myriad of other things. Its OK for you to like the LTV better, but it is a waste of our time when you only compare price and declare that the Airstream is not worth the extra.

[@Pagosa]

Not biased, own an LTV and like some things. Been in an Atlas and know someone who owns one. The Airstream is great too, but the amount of money for the differences is way off. Plus, my local Airstream dealer (I ordered an Airstream Globetrotter, so definitely an Airstream fan) has an Atlas that's been sitting there for months with no buyers and LTV has a 2 year waiting list. I think it's the price and lack of ingenuity that holds the Atlas back.

[@mobonds1]

Do they have TPMS?

[@Pagosa]

Mercedes 3500 chassis do not

[@bradwhite1585]

If doing a side by side build would be best to know the options that they each have Eg Atlas does have the Wineguard And the macerator Etc Need to be apples to apples ….

[@Pagosa]

I think I did this video during Covid when there wasn’t a lot to do. Was just going over the website. I have a more in depth video about the Atlas on the channel from the Florida RV show if your interested

[@bradwhite1585]

Thank you I will look for it!

[@stevenmargini8248]

Airstream has macerator and Alcoa wheels

[@Pagosa]

The LTV does as well

[@quazelkopf]

Yes, but they are an option on the LTV and included on the Airstream

[@50spudman]

👍🏻✌🏻

[@Pagosa]

thanks for watching

[@TheBigWanger]

How many color options did you get when you ordered your new Airstream Globe whatever? 😂😂😂

[@Pagosa]

There are 4 color choices for Globetrotters. We chose Barcelona Blue and happy with the choice.

[@tommitchell813]

I can really tell that you are not bias at all. Is it worth A HUNDRED THOUSAND DOLLARS. Get real!!! Get it in one!!! There are no Options on an Atlas. And if it works, it does!

[@quazelkopf]

Yes there is bias for sure. The difference is less than $100,000 per video. Does not include air ride suspension. Tommy Bahama is not $20,000 extra, try $6,800. Plus owns a LTV.

[@Pagosa]

A bit biased, but Tommy Bahama is no more so had to guess. New pottery barn Airstream is 20k more than it’s non PB branded airstream. I would pay 100,000 extra not to have some of the things the Atlas has like electric blinds, but at end of day I love any RV that gets you out there

[@danatmatchvox]

Airstream is over priced...pleasureway is awesome and more advanced in construction...LTV are innovative but need to step up in solar, warranty.

[@Pagosa]

They are all overpriced, lol

[@NicholeLeigh]

I had to stop watching midway because clearly your post is so biased it was nauseating. Could you please try and consider next time when comparing? I wonder how many times you said “is that worth $100k?” by the end the post. Midway, there were so many reasons to pay the premium, I’m certain my choice was made. I’m going for the Atlas.

[@Pagosa]

Ah, at the end I said it was worth it. You tapped out too quick. JK, I am totally biased and still said it wasn’t worth the extra, lol.

[@NicholeLeigh]

Maybe for you but the reasons you poo pooed the Atlas were bonuses for some of us and the bonuses for the Leisure were not selling me. I have been wanting a Leisure for a long time and the only bonus I could find would be storage or MAYBE, choosing the TB model but I like the 4500 standard, the power awning, the power step, the metal, the standard colors, the look, the quality upgrades, and more. Resale is proving the Atlas is the way to go as well. I don’t care for all of the exterior colors or any of the nonsense that seem to be bonuses for you. To each his own. Not worth the wait and losing money off the lot.

[@Pagosa]

@@NicholeLeigh I recently sold my Leisure for more than I paid for it new 3 years ago. In all seriousness, the Atlas is a fine RV, however since this video was made, the Atlas has gone up another 100K, going over 340,000. Not sure what they discount, but AS usually does not discount more than 10%. LTV can see up to 7% discount. I only have my Airstream Globetrotter now, which I love and I'm not a hater of the brand, just high prices.

[@navajasrs2402]

I think the Leisure would be my choice. That said, I stopped watching the video. I'm afraid your consistent snide dismissiveness of the Airstream was off putting. I find this to be a trend with your content. We get it, you chose the LTV. I will most likely as well. Your condescension is not helpful nor indicated.

[@Pagosa]

Good choice on stopping watching and the LTV. If you choose LTV, you will like my more positive vids. Happy travels

[@ericsmith2869]

U pushin propaganda bro! U must work for leisure which I genuinely admire. How about you go toe to toe with an airstream rep so they can expose and exploit you. Floorplans? (Check interstate) same benz chariot, however no slideouts

[@Pagosa]

Hi Eric, I also own a 2022 Airstream Globetrotter 27FBT. I am a Leisure fan boy, and wish they would pay me, lol. I'm also an Airstream fan boy. Love both brands and own and use both brands, but for the Class C, the Airstream is overpriced just because they can. Leisure is a better option for most people in my opinion in that regard. Thanks for taking the time to comment.

[@ericsmith2869]

I dont think you're being fair to airstream and how they actually do out merit leisure. Not saying that the leisures aren't amazing. Just not as good as the atlas pound for pound or tit for tat

[@Pagosa]

Don't disagree they have better features, my point was the pricing is a bit ludicrous for those features. I'm sure someone would be happy in either brand.

[@mitchell1108A]

Airstream is a ripoff!

[@Pagosa]

In ways, yes.