Mini-Review | Coachmen CrossFit 22D | A Rare 4-Season Class B Camper Van built on the Ford Transit

[@Ultramobility]

🔴 *Help support Ultramobility with a one time donation: **www.paypal.me/ultramobility* Nick Recchio, the GM of Coachmen has joined the conversation and is answering your questions in the comments below! Thanks Nick! Be sure to vote at the end of the video if you want me to release the FULL review this week! The CrossFit competes with the Winnebago Paseo. Check out my very first review (ever) of the Paseo here! kzbin.info/www/bejne/mpS7fHVpZb9ghbc

[@dandoyle8908]

2019 Coachman Crossfit 22C Review Cons • Lack of higher end truck cab interior features (comes equipped with non-heated, non power - cloth seats) • Vehicle does blow around in wind while at highway speeds, to be expected… • Lack of exterior porch light (only equipped with step light when opening slider) • Battery storage inaccessible for maintenance-no access panels (requires unbolting battery box bolts to remove battery(s) for maintenance. The Port battery (my van has two batteries, two 100 watt solar panels) is located directly under the plumbing low point drains so when you drain water system the water drains onto the top of the port battery. • Front passenger seat cumbersome to swivel and turn around (still getting the hang of it) • Driver’s seat doesn’t pivot on 2019 (park brake handle in the way) • Poor fit and finish on shower/bathroom stall integration (caulking used to fill large gaps) • Squeaks and rattles prevalent when driving • Build quality is better than some, but not high quality • No inverter • Extremely low chassis clearance-sewer pipe storage tube hits pavement in some driveways, already tore the tube cover off • Low generator exhaust profile • Generator low clearance, limited accessibility for service • Reading lights over couch/bed don’t shut off individually (be nice to be able to switch off one side or the other individually) • Lack of storage in the rear behind sofa on model 22C (fresh water tank under sofa). Better storage on 22D. • Small holding tanks (not a lot of space claim for larger tanks considering it’s a B van) • Microwave not convection • Sewer drain floor pipe penetration factory seal job is sub standard (attribute to lack of quality control) • Aluminum wheel upgrade doesn’t include inner rear wheels (inner wheels are steel). Sales brochure says Aluminum wheels is an upgrade option. I have that upgrade but “wheels” doesn’t include inner dual is aluminum which is misleading. • Sewer drain accessibility requires hands and knee position to hook up (Sewer drain is behind a faring which given the fact the sewer drain is hidden it gives the coach a stealthier look which is a plus) • Outside shower and Electrical Shore Power covers on my van don’t fasten shut so going down the highway I noticed both flapping in the wind. I had to buy and install Velcro to hold caps closed. • Coachman only offers a 1-year warranty. What’s that say about their confidence in their product? Some equipment manufacturers for equipment Coachman uses in their Crossfit offer longer than 1-year warranty if you register their product online or via mail. I purchased an aftermarket warranty from selling dealership. Pros • Excellent maneuverability in town, parking lots, etc (22’ 2” length) • Be careful going in and out of driveways as vehicle is subject to scraping rear low undercarriage accessories • 3.5 Ecoboost a must, plenty of power (Don’t opt for the 3.7 if you plan to tow anything) • Comfortable to drive with decent drive-ability for a one ton truck • Lots of truck cab drink and water bottle holders • Over the driver/passenger truck cab storage bins • 2-12-volt truck cab power ports and 2-USB connectors • Great over the RH shoulder visibility and the convex side mirrors offer great blind spot visibility • Sync 3 technology (Ford’s System not aftermarket) • Decent back up camera • Rain sensing wipers • Power folding heated mirrors • Lane keeping alert • Heavy Duty alternator-not sure of amperage • HD 350 chassis with rear spring upgrade • Stable when parked and camping • 100 watt solar standard • Fresh water tank and plumbing inside cabin not external (not exactly 4-season but……) • Decent fuel mileage (so far averaging between 14- 15) • Quality better than some but…… • Decent sized refer and freezer • Truma heating system quiet once heat stabilizes and fan goes to low speed • Excellent stand up room (I’m 6’) In looking to address some squeaks and rattles in my van I’ve pulled interior rear seating under cushion panel covers, and Truma air vent grate under galley. Once exposed you can see the quality of assembly and construction is lacking in fit and finish for wiring, plumbing, heat ducts, screw fastening, assembly, etc. A close look underneath at plumbing, mounting, and sealing you confirm assembly quality isn’t top shelf. I have pictures of examples…..

[@Ultramobility]

LOVE this comment! thank you so much for sharing your ownership experience Dan!

[@nickrecchio1676]

Dan I want to thank you for your post. I would like to have an opportunity to discuss your suggestions on your Cross-Fit. Whenever you have the time please feel free to email me @ [e-mail]. Looking forward to speaking to you. Thank you for your support.

[@howesyourmac]

Of course I didn’t see this post until after I bought my Crossfit! I’m still glad I bought it, but this will give me lots of things to look for when I do the walkthrough when I pick it up. Thanks for your thorough list!

[@Ceeboyforlife]

Can you talk about the best RV for urban camping and primarily boondocking?

[@Armenian]

Kudos to Coachmen for putting together a nice B on the Ford. I owned a Supercrew Ecoboost 3.5 and that engine was incredible. Hands down. I personally do not care much for the bed arrangement. If only it had the raising bed and toy garage like in the revel,,,I priced this ‘19 22CEB with Solar for 89,999 at one of our Texas dealers. Looking forward to your full review!

[@Ultramobility]

a loft bed like the IROK would be incredible! i'll have to mention that to Nick their GM. great idea! Be sure to vote in the poll at the end of the video if you want me to release the full review this week!

[@BobHorvath]

The 22C in my opinion has the better back lounge / bed. The Galleria has limited pass through under the rear sofa in similar layout. The 22C also has the better seat belts in the back.

[@cr0ft-2k]

A really nice vehicle and built in what I believe is the best European-style van you can get right now. The Transits handle beautifully, and with the 3.5 ecoboost they're hot rods, to boot. 600 amp hours of Lithium would be killer, and the only major disappointment I spotted so far is the paltry solar options. I'd also prefer to see a multi-hundred amp hour dedicated alternator for the rear battery, and an auto-start system for the engine - instead of that noisy diesel generator. Comparing the bed options to something really sweet, like the Leisure Travel Van Wonder with the queen size Murphy bed is also a bit meh.

[@Ultramobility]

Croft - wait for the full review - I go into a lot more detail on the electrical system including a second dedicated alternator for the house batteries!

[@crystaldwfan]

Water lines inside yay! Wish, so many class b vans did that. Looking forward to your full review!

[@Ultramobility]

Coachmen is a lead here. I talk more about what they're doing to make their products 4 season in the full review! check it out likely on Friday!

[@BobHorvath]

I like the Ford chassis over the MB and the Galleria is even longer than the CrossFit. I’d really like to understand what it would take to get the equivalent of the Galleria polar package on the CrossFit. It seems like tank heaters is one. Not sure what else. If that is all, I wonder why they don’t officially offer it. Sounds like people have been able to order CrossFits with tank heaters. The CrossFit also has something called phase change insulation which sounds interesting.

[@Ultramobility]

yep will talk about phase change in the full review. I think the polar package also wraps the pipes in heat strips?

[@misterhlam]

Thanks! Finally a review I've been waiting for a long long time since your review of the Paseo! Excellent! Thank you!

[@Ultramobility]

yep vote for it to be released this week in the poll at the end of the video!

[@acgypsy7771]

Neil, love your channel, especially the RV reviews. I'm hoping to buy a class be within the next few months; your channel has been extremely helpful, thank you!

[@Ultramobility]

really nice for you to share that with me A/C Gypsy and glad that my channel is helping you. I'm here to answer your questions any time - we got to get you into the RV Lifestyle!

[@ManuelHernandez-bg8bl]

This looks like a nice entry to the B- class lineup. Thanks for the mini review!

[@Ultramobility]

it's great that it's on the Ford Transit chassis. not many of those around.

[@mpgolfzen]

Neil thanks again for a great mini review- looking forward to the full review.

[@Ultramobility]

many thanks for watching mpgolfzen! full review coming out on Black Friday on maybe Thanksgiving Day! Not sure!

[@dlg5485]

The Crossfit is the most competent of the 'low cost' B vans, in my opinion, and I LOVE that Coachmen is offering the excellent Xantrex system in a cheaper van. That makes this a truly off grid rig. This will likely be my choice when I retire, if I can't afford my custom dream build. Although, it's my understanding that the bed in the Crossfit is only 5'10" long, which is about an inch shorter than I am. This is an unfortunate issue with an otherwise great coach, but it's probably not a deal breaker for me. Even with the optional 3.5 Ecoboost engine and Xantrex system, and a 4x4 conversion, the Crossfit would still be quite affordable for a very capable off-grid, 4 season coach. Looking forward to the full review!

[@BobHorvath]

Their bed is 76”. That s 6’ 4”!

[@Ultramobility]

Yep the bed is big enough for a 6' person to sleep comfortably.

[@johnpuccetti9383]

Very interesting. I notice many manufacturers are going to compressor refrigerators. I also noticed the awning has no anchor points on the side of the van. Good idea I have given up trying to use our awning with anchors as any wind will snap it in two. We now extend it out 4-5 ft and hang a 7'X10' shade cloth from it, privacy and a cool outside of the van place to be. With no fears of wind gusts.

[@Ultramobility]

hey john, yep the awning here is legless and has a wind sensor that will auto-retract it if a gust of wind comes along.

[@johnpuccetti9383]

@@Ultramobility Everything I have heard about wind sensors is not positive. But the 4-5 ft out makes them pretty stable.

[@Ultramobility]

hey john - the wind sensor on mine has saved me a couple times for sure. trick is to get them adjusted properly. true what you say about only extending them out 4-5 feet.

[@johnpuccetti9383]

@@Ultramobility Glad it worked for you. I always work with the "KISS" goal keep it simple stupid.

[@nitabaker9851]

Thank you so much for your greater customer service! Especially for being a good sport. (You're a household name in our family and a very familiar voice to all.) Happy Holidays Sir☆☆☆☆

[@Ultramobility]

wow - that's very very nice of you to tell me. thank you very much. I am humbled. am I known as the "ultramobility guy" or "neil"? lol

[@nitabaker9851]

To us Neil, to others "the Van Man" :)

[@Peter-976]

Now this coach hits a lot of buttons, Looking forward to the full review!

[@Ultramobility]

coming your way peter!

[@Sushigrl1029]

Oh I love the upgrades they did! I'm interested to know what the full review says and what is positive latching and their cabinet quality.

[@Ultramobility]

coming up!

[@kevinpolito1529]

You should do a tour/interview with Advanced RV. Granted, they custom-build super-high-end Class B models (up to $200,000 a pop), not your typical viewers, but they are a leader in engineering and design innovations that have been trickling down to the other Class B companies.

[@Ultramobility]

yep they've reached out to me but they are in Ohio and I can't easily get out there to see them unfortunately. Sportsmobile however is right around the corner ;-)

[@kevinpolito1529]

@@Ultramobility In you want to see what Roadtrek, Pleasure Way, Leisure Travel, and the others will be doing in the next few years, see what Advanced RV is doing right now.

[@spellmadam2947]

@@kevinpolito1529 I am glued to their channel. Love the company and what they are doing.

[@kimonogatos]

I’m excited to see the Sportsmobile Texas factory this Friday!

[@edmor127]

I definitely would get the up graded ecoboost engine....can't wait for the full review... thank you Neil

[@Ultramobility]

it's really great that coachmen even offers the EcoBoost engine as an upgrade. I love the way they're listening to customers and thinking outside the box. full review coming! stay tuned!

[@bobcat5412]

Looking forward to the full review. Very interested in this model. Thanks. 🙂

[@Ultramobility]

coming up maybe this Friday is voting continues to go well - vote in the poll at the end of the video! 😀

[@lynnelynne6685]

YEAH,,lol Thank you Sir,,, I have been waiting for this review,, and am very excited to see/hear your full disclosure on this capable/stylish "American Quality" built Coachman Crossfit class B RV. She's a beauty!!:)

[@Ultramobility]

she is a beauty. full review coming out shortly. vote in the poll at the end of the video!

[@colormedubious4747]

"She's one in a million girls (one in a million girls)" -- Could NOT help myself.

[@foretexas]

@ultramobility Been waiting on this one, looking forward to the full review.

[@Ultramobility]

me too! glad it finally got voted up! full review coming out in a few days. watch for it!

[@jss27560]

Good review as usual. I’m glas that it is 4 seasonish capable with minor upgrades.Also a not so modest upgrade but Quigley does a 4x4 upgrade the transit.Looking forward to the full review.

[@Ultramobility]

Coachmen is making some great progress on the 4 season front that I go into in more detail in the full review!

[@DavidHuffTexas]

Very cool! I've been wanting to see a "Neil review" of the Crossfit. It's an intriguing coach to be sure.

[@Ultramobility]

you'll get neil's full review coming up! vote in the poll at the end of the video for me to release it this week!

[@cponsler122017]

I went this weekend to a local dealer that had an 18 D and a 19 c model to see them. I was very impressed with both but the C is a better set up for me. Question. Can the solar upgrade be added after since the one here is not upgraded? Also is there a set up like pleasureway where the generator can be set to kick in and keep the coach cool inside when you are away? This is important to me I was impressed how stable it felt and would say a slightly bigger TV would be nice but not necessary and at 6’4” I did not care for the dead pedal when driving. Would much rather have room to extend my left leg but over all this is in my short list. Would love to see counter extensions in the galley area too and an AWD option for those of us in colder climates although I would not trade the dual rears for it.

[@Ultramobility]

I believe the solar can be added later by the dealer. you'd need to verify with them. I *believe* the generator has automatic generator start. AWD isn't an option unfortunately from Ford but perhaps you could add it after market? it'd be pricey.

[@ליהיימליך]

wow, that's a great video!

[@shawnbranch9443]

Nice looking van

[@benvernick]

Hi Neil & welcome Nick! Great video as always. Interesting van. I’m glad to see more manufacturers building on the Ford chassis. I’ve never understood what is the benefit of having “dualie” wheels, does it provide for more carrying capacity? Better maneuvering? Personally I’m interested in shorter vans (under 19 feet), wondering Nick if you have any future plans for smaller class B vans? Thank you both and happy holidays!

[@Ultramobility]

hey ben - the dual rear wheels give you better handling and stability. i'll let nick chime in if he wants on coachmen's interest in shorter coaches.

[@jss27560]

From what I’ve herd is that there is an issue with rocks and other things getting stuck between the two wheels.

[@billymcfarlane1387]

Thanks 4 your excellent reviews, Neil. Propane-less? ... with dual wheels & ecoboost I could probably tow the mother-in-law in a small trailer. Under 100k very nice unit, thanks again

[@Ultramobility]

hey there - you could indeed go propane-less if you opt for the Li3 lithium upgrade and don't use too much electricity to heat the coach. the coach uses the truma combi system which can use electricity for heating.

[@nickrecchio1676]

Cross Fit will have propane on board for the Truma. However the Truma does not necessarily need GAS to run. It has both electric and Lp settings.

[@Ultramobility]

nick - thanks for clearly that up. Everyone, Nick's the GM of Coachmen! Ask him any questions you like!

[@gosman949]

@@nickrecchio1676 so even if you get the upgraded electric system, there will be some propane on board?

[@Ultramobility]

@jay. you'll have the tank but you could opt to just keep it empty I suppose if you had lithium to power everything.

[@tonynes3577]

Thanks for the review, Neil. But too big for me. Don't forget the smaller ones for a review, the Axion VS Tofino, the really short vans. Thanks!

[@Ultramobility]

you got it! so you like vans that are under 19 feet in length?

[@tonynes3577]

@@Ultramobility That's what I'm thinking.,for my first van...I saw some nice smaller European vans only available in Europe...But who knows my mind changes like the wind!

[@thomasfranta7028]

Hi Neil Just a FYI The 2019 CrossFit also offers a White Enamel on their cabinetry Looking forward to the full review

[@Ultramobility]

yep you're right. beautiful color too!

[@ruthleclere2596]

Looks cool.....holding out for my platinum 2queen /dinette.....but looks awesome for the price

[@Ultramobility]

*thanks for the comment ruth*

[@apollion888]

looking forward to the full review :-) and fyi: Coach House just came out with a B+ on the Transit called the Platinum III.

[@Ultramobility]

yep - will have to do a review of it! thanks for sharing that!

[@solodad]

Interresting Neil, but wait for the full review, see you next time.

[@Ultramobility]

full review coming! did you vote at the end of the video for me to release it this week?

[@MyChannel-vm6dw]

Great video Neil. The one-year warranty makes me very wary.

[@Ultramobility]

will address that and quality in the full review My Channel! you're right to be worried whenever you see a 1 year warranty but it's not always what you may think. i'll give you the full story.

[@corvettew.s.4360]

What about a review on the Coachmen Nova

[@calburnIII]

Even with the water tank and lines above the floor, nobody should fool themselves into believing that any RV is truly all season, with or without heated holding tanks. As the temp drops, it’s amazing how supposedly protected lines can suddenly freeze. My old rig was all season, with all plumbing but the gray tank inside (I added the gray tank several years after purchase), but I became pretty skilled at repairing cracked lines and fittings. Of course, some camping weekends involved -20° F temps! Another consideration is that dumping tanks in well below freezing weather can turn a normally unpleasant task into a pretty dreadful one. Even high quality sewer hoses become stiff and sometimes crack in really cold temperatures. BTDT.

[@Ultramobility]

yep great points. I talk more about what coachmen is doing to make their coaches 4 season in my full review. they address many of the points that you bring up.

[@semdoug]

My wife and I saw one of these at the recent Tampa Fall RV Show. It was the power rear sofa version and was priced at $79,995. We both liked it, seems like a decent price and it offers some of the things we like about the Sprinter chassis but without some of the MB concerns. Besides the one year warranty, the other thing that concerns me a little is the protruding awning. Would the awning be damaged, or torn off, if one was to snag low hanging trees? Not sure if this is really a concern as long as low hanging trees can be avoided.

[@Ultramobility]

hey there. I agree with you on the assessment of the transit as compared to the sprinter. the awning is like every other class b that I've seen. you do need to be aware of the overall height of the rig. once you're used to that you're good to go.

[@semdoug]

@@Ultramobility No, not exactly like the other awnings found on Promasters and Sprinters, when viewed side by side it is apparent. Look at the gap between the roof line and the front leading edge of the awning assembly. Looks kind of like a fighter plane refueling probe. This is shared with the Paseo. Like you alluded, not a big deal but the driver should be aware of this.

[@BobHorvath]

The FB forum says you can order something from WGO that fills in the gap.

[@nitabaker9851]

Sorry, had to laugh. The trees in the back of your head looked like your new hair du and the stop sign looked like your earings! (Hey, thanks for all your hard work and great info every time:)

[@Ultramobility]

that ridiculous tree and stop sign! I swear I try to park my van this way and that each week to avoid looking like a freak but to no avail! lol!

[@nitabaker9851]

Sorry, I understand about the after marketing gray from freezing.

[@84imreplica]

I sat in a 2017 CrossFit's driver seat and was surprised to find that my right foot made contact with something under the dash when I moved my right foot back and froth between the gas and brake pedals. In day-to-day driving this would drive me nuts. I wonder if this is a one-off problem, or is found on all CrossFits.

[@Ultramobility]

hmmm, i'll have to look for that when I go to a dealer next time. I didn't notice it when I sat in the driver's seat but I wasn't moving my foot. thanks for sharing that.

[@JRMoritz]

Nice... I will check back for the full review. Curious about Coachman's build quality. The Forest River B on the Ford Transit build was horrible.

[@Ultramobility]

yep I will talk to the build quality and the 1 year warranty in the full review!

[@marystringos3583]

Don't forget that Leisure Travel Vans has the Wonder model with three floor plans that is also built on the Ford Transit chassis.

[@Ultramobility]

yep but that's the cut-away chassis and not the van chassis.

[@edmor127]

I love Leisure vans also.....but they dont make a four season van....thats the deal breaker....so much of the country is in cold climates.....thats so restrictive....especially for the MSRP of travel vans....

[@marystringos3583]

Also a deal breaker for me. But they are so pretty!

[@Minds2u]

Love your videos. I have adopted you as my personal advisor for purchase of my fist rig., smile. I’m tall, 6’4, and really want a van style rig. Can you do a review of the 2019 Regency National Traveler DLX TREK Class B. I Think this van fit a taller person. Thanks!

[@Ultramobility]

very interesting rig. did not know that regency made a promaster rig. thanks for sharing. i'll keep an eye out for one to review.

[@Sonnyboy346]

I don't see a poll at the end of this video, but I definitely want to see the full review.

[@Ultramobility]

you got it. just look for the "I" in the upper right hand corner and click it for the poll.

[@Sonnyboy346]

The "I" doesn't show up on my Kindle. Looking forward the full review.

[@Sonnyboy346]

Very interesting van, although I would be a little concerned about the length and the one year warranty. Happy Daze in Sacramento offers them at a fairly substantial dicount. Could this be a serious competitor to the Lexor?

[@Ultramobility]

i'll talk about the quality and 1 year warranty in the full review. yes, it could compete with the Lexor definitely.

[@nitabaker9851]

Please, what is "compressor refrigerator"? And you said pipes need to be wrapped after sale? Is that normal? I cannot comprehend taking a road trip and constantly worrying about pipes freezing.

[@Ultramobility]

a compressor refrigerator doesn't use propane to keep cool, just electricity. if you want a 4 season rv then you likely need to wrap the water pipes in heat strips to keep them from freezing. also the holding tanks need warmers.

[@apollion888]

if Nick is still here, I just looked at the Coachmen website's Crossfit page for details on the lithium batteries but couldn't find any, can you direct me to more info? Thanks

[@Ultramobility]

it will be available this January. here's the link to the galleria li3 brochure: coachmenrv.com/brochures/2018/2018Xantrexflyer.pdf

[@nickrecchio1676]

With the release just over a month ago we are playing catch up for our Cross Fit Li3 marketing material. I can get you some info directly if you are ok with this. It is almost exactly the Li3 system that we use for the Galleria Class B with a couple slight modifications.

[@apollion888]

Yes and thank you @@nickrecchio1676

[@nickrecchio1676]

@@apollion888 Please send me an email @ [e-mail] and I will get you Cross Fit Li3 info ASAP. Many thanks for your compliments.

[@michaelhanson4848]

I was under the impression that only the passenger seat swivelled- and with a bit of difficulty at that.

[@Ultramobility]

I believe you're correct.

[@BobHorvath]

FB group is speculating that 2019 Ford models address this. Note this is Ford not Coachmen 2019 models.

[@nattydj8646]

Good point. This mini review is wrong about the drivers seat. That s a bit of a deal breaker versus a true front lounge unit.

[@bh9262]

How many does it sleep?

[@dp523]

Enjoyed the review. What is the cargo carrying capacity and is it now available with a diesel. Thanks

[@Ultramobility]

occc varies by options but for the unit I review in my full review it is 1,972lbs. not available as a diesel - gas only.

[@cr0ft-2k]

US Transits are only sold in a gas model, for whatever reason. The European 2 liter eco diesels get 35+ mpg... I'd rather have those, even if they do only top out at 170 hp.

[@Ultramobility]

I believe the diesel model is available here in North America?? I have to double check but it's not currently offered on any coaches.

[@Ultramobility]

yep diesel is available here in North America but isn't used by any coach builder: 3.2L Power Stroke® I-5 Diesel

[@gregghershberger7968]

The CrossFit drivers seat does not swivel. At least in the several I looked at this year.

[@Ultramobility]

yep I believe you're correct.

[@rrowdyrogers707]

Until Ford moves the emergency brake lever on the Transit, none of the driver's seats can be swiveled... lever is on right side of the seat.

[@Ultramobility]

it's on the right side of the seat on the sprinter as well and those seats rotate... maybe they need to see how Mercedes does it lol

[@nickrecchio1676]

Currently we do not have a floor plan that the driver swivel is beneficial with the shower being 7" to 12" behind the normal driver seating position. We do have some floor plans in the works where the driver seat will swivel and be more beneficial to the floor plan.

[@brucepatrick3029]

That was a very big negative for me also. I have seen several KZbin videos on how to lower the handbrake enough allowing you to insert a swivel between the seat and pedestal.

[@nylronetynarf6952]

I wonder why more manufacturers do not use the Ford Transit. It's generally thought of as a better looking van with higher standing head room. There are also more of them on the road commercially. Maybe Ford is asking for too much for them to purchase the chassis.

[@Ultramobility]

I think you're right. it comes down to cost. they are substantially more than a promaster, closer in cost to a Mercedes but not as high. Mercedes has the cache so the coach builders can charge a premium to make up some of the higher cost while Ford doesn't have that cache. that's just my opinion.

[@vicalzip]

@@Ultramobility If I purchase a B or B+ I am absolutely firm on going with the Ford Transit. Assuming they have the same typical features as other Fords (I'm in a 2018 Explorer now) SYNC3 is great, they have all the safety features, and Ford really packs in a lot for the money. I've had 3 Escapes and an Explorer since 2012 (long story on why so many) and all have been excellent vehicles overall with a great ride. The huge pluses less cost, regular gas, and being able to get the chassis serviced almost anywhere put it over the top. So I'm really hoping to see more manufacturers use the Transit.

[@edmor127]

@@Ultramobility yes very good point......but Ford has the edge with service availability and cost.....everyone knows that is a guaranteed cost down the road cost....

[@nickrecchio1676]

We are extremely pleased with the Ford platform. Power of both engines, cockpit ergonomics, towing capacity, ceiling height, dual rear wheels, solid service...Ford Transit is a winner.

[@BobHorvath]

Nick Recchio ... love what you guys did with both class B’s. Galleria is too big for me and prefer ford over MB. Hopefully you see my other comment on polar package. Any chance of a long body version? The extended body is still a little large for me. Obviously getting a decent sized bed would be the challenge there.

[@perdidoatlantic]

What is the headroom interior?

[@Ultramobility]

6'3" - I talk about it in the full review coming out later (maybe?) this week.

[@DavidHuffTexas]

Yeah, that's one thing about the Transit. They come in three heights, and the tallest (the only one suitable for an RV) is *very* tall inside.

[@amartins02]

You get a 1 year warranty for $100k van? No thanks. There are other brands that'll give you more for the money. Great video as always.

[@Ultramobility]

watch the full review tomorrow and let me know if you change your mind at all!

[@RetroWolf13]

Awesome

[@getcraig55]

Nice 👍🏽..

[@Ultramobility]

thanks craig!

[@getcraig55]

Ultramobility can’t wait to see the full review 😁.. this one caught my attention

[@Ultramobility]

I was pleasantly surprised... i'll just say that.

[@josephkelleher5964]

My understanding is this coach has a 1 piece fiberglass bath not a 3 piece.

[@Ultramobility]

3-[piece means shower, toilet sink. it would be 4 piece if there were a tub and believe it or not there are some smaller RVs that have had 4 piece bathrooms! Some class b vans only have 2 piece bathrooms (no sink). you're right it is a single piece of fiberglass and not sectioned. I talk about this in the full review. thanks for the comment.

[@josephkelleher5964]

@@Ultramobility ah gotcha! thanks for the review, it's very helpful cause there really isn't a ton of info out on these units.

[@nickrecchio1676]

Cross Fit is one piece fiberglass. NO Plastic!

[@Ceeboyforlife]

I think Class B rv’s should have a the option of removing the wet bath and save space. Instead make it a leaner closet with a toilet

[@Ultramobility]

you mean like the Revel?

[@Ceeboyforlife]

Ultramobility yes like the Revel I love the idea they used with the shelves. Keep the outside shower though for true campers.

[@Ultramobility]

hmm interesting. not sure the typical buyer (non-adventure type) buying the crossfit would want this but maybe viewers can chime in here since I know that the GM of Coachmen is reading the comments!

[@calburnIII]

No idea whether I’m typical, but I like the “3-piece” bath in my 2018 Ascent. In the 8500 miles I’ve traveled in it over the past year, I’ve showered something like 17-18 times, and of course used the toilet and sink countless times. A more spartan “toilet room” wouldn’t appeal to me at all.

[@Ultramobility]

i'm there with you @cary! I love my 3 piece bath. it's one of the best features of my ascent!

[@alliejr]

At this size, might as well go with Class C/B+. This seems to have all the disadvantages of larger classes while removing all of the advantages of a Class B. :-/

[@Ultramobility]

well wait for the full review. it definitely has its advantages. it's still a couple feet shorter than most class B+ motorhomes but some of the things they're doing to make this a true 4 season coach are amazing. it's also shorter than all the class b's built on the 170 inch wheelbased Mercedes sprinter.

[@onejourney]

I love RV'S ____🎬 1 📽 🎞 🗣 🎙 🧐 🚐🌎🌍🌏 🚐 Outstanding, thank you so much for sharing. 🤔 🧐 ❤❤❤❤❤ 🚐 RV Journey ROAD TRIP!❗️ I like this brand "Coachmen"... So Cool 4-Season

[@Ultramobility]

me too! I go into a TON of detail in the full review. if you want me to drop the full review this week then be sure to vote at the end of the episode!!

[@billredding2000]

My main concern would be build quality (materials used/fit & finish). Coachmen travel trailers are cheaply/poorly made. -- BR

[@Ultramobility]

hi bill. I hear you. stick around for my full review coming up later this week. I talk about build quality.

[@nickrecchio1676]

Bill we have 3 pillars for our Quality at the Class B Div. #1 of course is how you build it=fit and finish. Coachmen Class B's are generating quite the buzz as a quality manufacturer. #2. And I believe this is most important and you bring this up is the parts and pieces one uses to assemble a Class B or any product for that matter. We use the highest quality materials in our build. No cheap pink spun fiberglass insulation, we don't finish our interiors with ABS plastic or cloth-we use marine grade PVC that won't rot or mold or breakdown. We use Xantrex electrical products which are industry leading, we do not buy any furniture from a typical "RV supplier". All our furniture is custom designed with partnership with a local limo seating supplier. All of our cabinetry is custom made by a local Amish woodworking shop. All hardwood stiles, no vinyl wrap doors. We take great pride in delivering products that are unique and well thought out for this segment. And finally and dear to my heart is that we provide the best customer service experience in the Class B segment. We don't let our customers/RV family members down. Any questions on the above I would be happy to answer. Many thanks.

[@billredding2000]

@Nick: Thanks for your comments...will try to keep an open mind about Coachmen Class Bs...but it will take some convincing given Coachmen towables reputation over the years. Hard to believe they suddenly changed but we'll see. Not singling-out Coachmen: There are plenty of other "suspect" brands out there (including their parent company, the huge conglomerate of brands Forest River), but people keep buying them anyway so the crap-makers stay in business. Crank-them out as fast as possible seems SOP in the RV industry: Look for the video "Building a Jayco in 7 hours" -- where does Quality Control fit in there? And with no Lemon Laws in the RV world, buyers need to be VERY careful what brand/maker they choose -- besides ALSO choosing the dealer carefully! Personally, I'm in the market for a Class B in 2-3 years...aside from "acceptable" quality (not looking for a too-expensive "luxury" Class B), I understand that even the "best made" RVs can have issues -- but the crap-built ones have WAY more! In my Class B shopping, I'm looking for these things: -- 4-season capability. -- 4x4/AWD (and the ground clearance to use it). -- Lots of solar output, not the measly output seen on them presently. -- Lithium batteries (when the prices come down)to use increased solar output. A compressor refrigerator/freezer is a given: The obsolete ammonia/absorption units don't cut it anymore... But that's just addressing the Class B itself, the "concrete" product if you will -- which is 50% of my buying decision. The OTHER 50% of a buying decision (again, for me) is the "abstract" -- Customer Service/Care/Support AFTER the sale...from the dealer of course, but more importantly from the manufacturer, with no passing-the-buck or other nonsense that puts the owner in the middle (dealer blaming maker; maker blaming dealer), especially when it comes to any warranty work: No unnecessary delays getting an appointment to get work done, no delays getting parts, the maker not paying the dealer enough to do the work (so he really doesn't WANT to do it), etc. These negatives we see regularly in the RV industry today (and have for decades really) -- we shouldn't. -- BR

[@Desperado3248]

Well less competition and more interest in these now that Hymer is done

[@spellmadam2947]

Looking forward to the full review. The warranty doesn't give confidence to a buyer. One year translates as Coachman a sheepish about their product.

[@Ultramobility]

full review coming out tomorrow!

[@Netscorer]

22 feet and no front lounge. That is a very inefficient use of space and prevents two people to use coach when one person is resting and another wants to work at the table or have a snack. Am I missing something?

[@Ultramobility]

yeah as you can see from comments the driver's seat doesn't swivel because of the hand brake blocking it. that's a design flaw of ford's. that prevents a true front lounge. this is also true of the paseo.

[@Ultramobility]

they could however put in a workstation for the passenger's side and that would at least allow someone to move up front while another person is sleeping in the rear. nick you there? lol.

[@windsurfer49]

Why do all the vans you review" have such big BHP engines!, , In Europe we have the same vans with 130 - 150 bhp, 35-40+ mpg, lots of mountains to climb in Europe, bhp never a problem. much less pollution.

[@Ultramobility]

typically I believe our vans are heavier. we have more components like heavy under mount generators, large lithium battery packs, rooftop AC units, large onboard propane tanks. this all adds weight. also the chassis is generally used by commercial operators. they're the big buyers here in North America and they dictate what sized engines go in these chassis, not the RV manufacturers. the RV manufacturers just go along for the ride.

[@windsurfer49]

Do you really need all those things mentioned" Europe has a hot climate, a lot of custom uk vans have underslung l.p.g tanks or diesel cooking and heating- solar panels. and still manage to keeps the weight down, for ferry or tunnel tolls. those USA spec vans would not sell over here" I enjoy your vids"""@@Ultramobility

[@Ultramobility]

I don't know if we need them or not but the market here demands them. we are changing. cassette toilets for example are showing up. large sunroofs to aid with air circulation. at the same time, more American amenities are showing up in Europe as well: rooftop AC units, permanent onboard propane tanks, large lithium battery banks so I imagine that the engine requirements there will go up. maybe... again its not really the coach builders that specify the chassis specs. it's the fleet buyers. mainly for service and delivery vans. I guess here in North America the fleet buyers want bigger rigs to carry more stuff. Amazon is big here lol.

[@vicalzip]

@@windsurfer49 Having been to the UK and living in the US, Europe does not at all have a hot climate compared to many places in the U.S. For instance, here in the middle of the country (Missouri) it is expected and common to have temperatures of 35 to 38C (90 to 100F) in summers, lasting weeks and months.Our heat indexes (feels-like temps) commonly soar to 47C (115 or so F). Our vehicles also have to operate at top speed while keeping cool for hundreds of miles on highways where the speed limits are 70 to 80 mph and traffic typically exceeds that by 10 mph or so, so you have to be able to keep up. It's different, for sure. :)

[@vicalzip]

Oh and adding, our winter temps here in Missouri very commonly get to -18 to -26C. We have a very wide range and that's typical in many midwestern states.

[@tradersato]

I understand it’s a quick review, but an internal standing height and an external heigh clearance would of been nice in your dimensions talk.. nice job otherwise! 👍

[@Ultramobility]

hey there. I generally hold off on actual specs until the full review. I suppose I could consider stating them in the mini...

[@tradersato]

Ultramobility, you mentioned the overall length, so just a brief spec of the others would be nice.. I’ll still watch the full length one though...