In a Class all its Own: The Airstream Interstate

Four floorplans are available for the Lounge EXT edition and two floorplans are offered for the Grand Tour, seen here. Both are also based on the diesel-powered Sprinter platform.

While its classic aluminum trailer is still a highlight in its extensive model line, and “silver” still being the preferred color pick among its consumers, Airstream Inc. of Jackson Center, OH, brings a high level of driveability and comfort to its Touring Coach Class B series, most notably the Interstate models.

One look on a showroom floor and it’s hard to miss the Interstate’s lean, stylish profile of the Sprinter Mercedes-Benz Chassis that gives way to a seamless interior design.  Options are minimal and standards are aplenty. What you see and feel in an Interstate is certainly what you get.

Ample storage space is found throughout for life on the road.

“We try to stand out above the competition by providing all the extra features as standard,” says Tim  Garner, General Manager of Airstream. “We call it being at the top of the pyramid. We offer approximately 50 best-in-class features, which has been driving our growth the last five years. We fully understand our customers, what they are looking for, and what they are willing to pay for.”

Meeting its consumers’ demands means offering a vast selection of appointments found in the Interstate`s two-model lineup. Four floorplans are available for the Lounge EXT edition and two floorplans are offered for the Grand Tour. Both are also based on the diesel-powered Sprinter platform, thus combining performance and easy handling with a series of interior choices suited for a range of touring experiences.

With an overall length of a little more than 24 feet – and interior height of a little more than six feet – the added space allowed engineers to broaden the Interstate appeal for both models.

The Grand Tour, which is classified as “more of a couples coach,” is devised for all-around RVing and features such as a large, loaded galley, ample counter space, a flexible workspace desk, an over-sized fridge and freezer – plus an RV-friendly layout – provides a comfortable living on and off the road. While it has a sleeping capacity for two, the floorplans offer passenger seating of up to seven.

The Lounge edition, which has been referred to as “an SUV on steroids,” seats nine safely (the largest capacity in its class), and is geared for family touring, attending sporting and music events, or many similar group functions. Nonetheless, this model is tricked out with series of features users will appreciate including a galley and fridge, head, a pair of TVs, and two separate sofa spaces.

Highlights at a Glance:

13.5 BTU AC • convection microwave • bed size (Grand Tour EXT Series): 70″ x 82″ • rear hidden storage compartment • 30 cu. ft. of additional rear storage • additional rear seating • golf bag storage • air ride suspension • high-gloss laminate cabinetry • flush- mount solid-shut cabinet hardware • Ultraleather seating • Magic Suede on the walls and window boxes • plank-style flooring • Corian pedestal table

“There are two different types of buyers that really split up our mix of consumers.” says Garner. “The Interstate’s Sprinter chassis has a very European design and offers an automotive-style driving experience. It`s tight, doesn’t wonder around the road, and the performance is 18-20 mpg (20-22 mpg once broken in), which is excellent. ”

The automotive-style dash of the Interstate.

Rounding out the Interstate`s appeal are the series of safety features. Confidence at the wheel – for male and female RVers – is further provided by the Mercedes-Benz Adaptive ESP® system to reduce risk of skidding, rolling, or losing traction, and lane assistance. Other features include  airbags, and integrated cameras for easier viewing in tight confines. LP gas, smoke, and carbon monoxide detectors, a first aid kit and fire extinguisher are also all part of the standard Interstate package.

“RVers feel very comfortable in the Interstate,” says Garner. “One of the things we are seeing right now is some RVers are downsizing as they are looking for something a little easier to manage, as well as first-time  buyers that don’t want a big unit. We are also finding that RVers are using our models in different ways for different experiences. The Interstate provides that added choice for our customers.”

While the standards are abundant, about the only decision RVers have to make is their color choice. It’s available in Jet Black, Artic White, and well of course, Silver.

Specifications:

Overall Length: 24’4.5″
Overall Height: 9′ 8″ (w/AC)
Overall Width: 6′ 7.7″
Interior Height: 6′ 2.25″
Interior Width: 5′ 10″
GVWR: 11,030 lbs
Tow Capacity: Up to 5,000 lbs
Fuel Capacity: 24.5 gal.
Fresh Water Capacity: 32 gal.
Grey Tank: 27 gal.
Black Tank: 14 gal.
Engine: Mercedes-Benz 3.0L V6 Turbo Diesel
Horsepower/Torque: 188 HP/325 lbs

Airstream Warranty: 3 Years/36,000 Miles
Mercedes-Benz Warranty: 3 Years/36,000 Miles
Mercedes-Benz Engine Warranty: 5 Years/100,000 Miles

(Top Floorplan Photo: The Interstate Grand Tour; bottom photo: The Interstate Lounge)

More Images of the Airstream Interstate

Steve Fennell