Winnebago Revel Review: A 4x4 Sprinter Van That is as Good as Home
Outdoor life is a pure thrill. Now, like you’ll be learning from this Winnebago Revel Review, your RV travel is going to get a notch more exciting, thanks to some inspired engineers at Iowa.
What am I trying to say?
Well, if you’re addicted to nomadic adventures, the keys to a Winnebago revel open the door to a sea of camping bliss, whatever your destination.
Let’s dissect this wonder 4x4 sprinter van, up, close, and personal.
Introducing the Winnebago Revel RV
The Winnebago Revel is the very first Mercedes Sprinter 4×4 purpose-built for the North American traveler.
You see, Mercedes released their popular off-road van a while back.
However, to the disappointment of many, the design didn’t include a default living space, mandatory for a mind-blowing experience in open space living adventures.
This left you with two not-so-exciting choices…
Choice 1: Roll up your sleeves and build your living area, quite nightmarish if you hate DIY stuff.
Or…..
Choice 2: Drive to your nearest up-fitting business and pay for the modifications, which often left your pockets drained.
This struggle got the engineers at Winnebago Industries thinking.
Moreover, it meant working overtime for years.
The result?
An amazing Mercedes-powered class B recreational vehicle that guarantees you a good night’s sleep in the wild, whatever the weather.
So to give credit where it’s due, the company has done a remarkable job.
Indeed, to many climbers and backcountry enthusiasts, this bush-land living van is a godsend.
How good is the Winnebago Revel?
To say that Winnebago Revel RV has been a revolutionary invention for outdoor enthusiasts would be an understatement.
Indeed, from the low torque, raised ride heights, and to the sophisticated braking system, it’s clear that the van was created with the unique requirements of modern-day camping in mind.
We are, in short, speaking about a robust four wheeler that maneuvers the most challenging snowy mountain climb with legendary ease.
Then it’s also a well-balanced sprinter and will tackle paved roads with the smoothness and nimbleness of a city superstar.
The icing on the cake is, however, the Winnebago’s heavenly treatment when you get inside the stunning living space.
The homely rear bedroom, multi-functional dining table (converts to an extra sleeping space), and the Europe-originated cassette toilet system (more comfortable to dump) are just some of the highlights.
In a nutshell, Winnebago Revel is now considered the most accomplished all-weather RV to have ever been built by Winnebago.
We will discuss the myriad revolutionary features comprehensively a bit later.
Winnebago Revel Specifications
It would be unfair for us to progress deeper into this Winnebago revel review without first highlighting its key specifications.
Take a look:
· Safety features
The unique construction of RV’s (these vehicles are way heavier) and the often unpredictable outdoor conditions can make an RV drive dangerous.
Indeed, statistics make grim readings.
For example, there were over 75000 injuries from RV accidents in 2012. It has also been estimated that about 26 campers die from these types of accidents every year.
Perhaps this is the reasoning behind Winnebago’s inclusion of an advanced safety system in this revel.
The blind spot monitoring, coupled with the lane keeping assist increases your awareness to allow you to make lane changes safely and lower the risk of a sideswipe accident.
On a similar note, the collision prevention assist helps you brake on time by warning you of a possible collision.
Finally, the innovative hill-descent control system further reinforces your safety and control when descending from your fun-filled excursion.
· Beast-like Engine
Winnebago has deployed the performance-oriented Mercedes Benz 3.0L V6 turbo diesel engine making an impressive 188-horsepower.
The engine boasts of 325 ft-lb — torque, enough to help you conquer that scary rocky two-track on your way to nowhere.
· Wheels and Other Ride Features
Above that, the brawny BFGoodrich tires generate the additional traction necessary to topple the extremities of punishing off-roading.
What I love most about these tires is the versatility: They are smooth sailing (and silent) on a busy interstate highway as they are on deserted upcountry paths.
Plus, you have the luxury of activating the on-demand 4WD in this Sprinter-based motorhome in areas with stubborn terrain.
Make no mistake: The van is as comfy to ride in as they come thanks to an assortment of features including the muscular stabilizers.
· A Home away from home
The revel has all it takes to be your perfect home when boondocking with buddies in the middle of nowhere.
First, it can sleep four people- quite an achievement considering that many camper vans in its class accommodate two people only.
How?
First, we have the power lift four-foot-wide bed.
We then have the pull-up table in the dinette supplementing the sleeping space for your family.
Both sleeping constructions are designed to eliminate mattress sag while delivering optimal support to your back.
Don’t forget you can comfortably pack all your bikes and other large essentials in the vast gear garage (available when you push the bed back to the ceiling).
The solid rooftop rack is your savior when you have more cargo. It’s actually big enough to haul even bulky kayaks, skis, among others.
Moving on, you will also be impressed by the Revel’s galley.
There is the cool stainless-steel sink, sizeable vertical pantry, and the energy-efficient single-burner induction stove.
Other standouts include the folding table and the setup which forms a functional outside table.
Also, yes, the handy 2.5 cu ft. refrigerator keeps the space cool and hospitable.
Also noteworthy is the all-in-one bathroom (wet bath)/closet installation-the fact that the toilet turns to whichever side you elect to face when sitting on it makes it a winner.
I, of course, also warmly welcome the additional waterproof storage.
Also, as I had mentioned, the RV uses the increasingly popular cassette toilet which allows you to conveniently remove the portable holding tank for dumping at your preferred spot.
The rest of the RV’s interior is marked by some cool touches like the operable window (for better ventilation), and the double insulation (to reduce cold).
Add the standard solar power installation, roof-mounted AC system, and diesel-powered heating, and you realize that this could be a gem.
Overall, not many coaches maximize the use of space like the Winnebago revel while remaining as livable.
Winnebago revel specs summary
Engine details
Fuel Type : Diesel
Engine : Mercedes Benz 3.0L
Chassis : Mercedes Benz Sprinter
Horsepower : 188 hp
Fuel Capacity : 24.5 gals
Transmission : Five speed, automatic
Inverter : 2,000 watt
Solar panel charger : 200 watts (expands to 510 watts)
Battery system : RV batteries (maintenance free)-315 AMP hour
Tank monitoring system : Truelevel holding
Cooling : Compressor driven-2.5 cubic feet, refrigerator cum freezer
Patio awning : 10 feet (power)
Dimensions
Length : 19 feet 5”
Exterior Width : 7 feet 1”
Exterior Height : 9 feet 10”
Interior Height : 6 feet 3”
Other measurements
Odometer : 22
Wheelbase : 144”
Torque : 325 feet-lbs.
Axle Weight Front : 3970 lbs.
Axle Weight Rear : 5360 lbs.
AC BTU : 13500 btu
Hitch Weight : 5000 lbs
Gross Weight : 8550 lbs
Cargo Weight : 1360 lbs
Gross Combined Weight : 13550 lbs
Fresh Water Capacity : 21 gals
Grey Water Capacity : 21 gals
Black Water Capacity : 5 gals
Tire Size : 17
Tire type : BF Goodrich all-terra” tires TA KO2 LT245/70R17
Furnace BTU : 17500 btu
Extras
¾ Electronic stability control (esc)
¾ First aid kit
¾ High beam assist
¾ Emergency flashlight
¾ Leather-wrapped steering wheel
¾ Diesel burner (continuous hot water)
Customers Reviews
It’s not lost on us that the best way of gauging whether a product is meeting clients expectations is by listening to what its buyers are saying.
Moreover, so far it seems that most of Winnebago revel customers are thoroughly happy with their choice.
For example, one buyer calls the revel “a great thing” for those looking to venture into 4x4 van living.
Another purchaser labels the vehicle perfect for his fishing trips and regular camping trips to the scenic Chaco Canyon.
However, as it happens with nearly every other product, some clients have reservations about swiping their debit card for the RV.
One of them quotes something we had noted ourselves- the revel isn’t the most spacious van. He goes ahead to request the company to release a bigger (and more powerful) 4x4RV.
Pricing
Sadly, the brilliance of Winnebago revel is out of reach for van campers on a shoestring budget.
Having said that, the price which ranges between $134,000 to $170,000 is at par with peer motorhomes such as the Pleasure-Way Ascent Motorhome.
The company recommends that you order the Winnebago revel from your nearest authorized dealer to make it easier for you to access technical help and vehicle maintenance services.
You can also try your luck on sites like Lichtsinn RV, especially if you’re searching for a great financing deal.
How does Winnebago Revel fare when paired with other major brands?
To put matters in a better perspective, we shall compare the sprinter van with its close rivals- the pleasure above way ascent, sportsmobile sprinter 4x4, and the sleek Airstream Interstate Grand Tour.
.Winnebago Revel Vs sportsmobile sprinter 4x4
The sportsmobile motorhome combines functionality, mobility, and unprecedented quality and might also be a fantastic alternative for you.
Our only issue is that the manufacturer has sacrificed some of the bells and whistles you ordinarily find in high-end rigs.
For example, while they’re not the worst on the planet, this sprinter’s fit and finishing are certainly wanting.
You’re bound to find such minor shortcomings throughout the construction.
Ultimately, these weaknesses cancel out the single largest advantage the sportsmobile sprinter has over the Winnebago revel- friendlier pricing.
.Winnebago Revel VS pleasure way ascent
The pleasure way offers a flood of camping luxury and might even beat the revel hands down if the only consideration was lounging and sleeping comfort.
However, the fact that it only sleeps two counts against it (unless you’re ready to spend on a couple of tweaks to create space for a kids bed).
Winnebago Revel Vs. Airstream Interstate Grand Tour
Was it not for the audible noise as you cruise down rough roads and the smaller interior, the Airstream tour van could nearly match the Winnebago Revel blow for blow?
However, they would also need to correct the pricing, which is slightly higher than the revel.
Comparison Table
Concept
Winnebago Revel
Airstream Interstate Grand Tour
Pleasure-way ascent
Sportsmobile Sprinter 4x4
Outstanding feature
Powerful turbo diesel engine,
never flat-tires, performance-first design
Hordes of luxurious accessories, nice
LED lighting, superb entertainment system
Well-equipped galley, pleasurable memory foam (queen size) bed, separate private bathroom
Exceptional custom engineering,
gas engine option, excellent fuel-efficiency
Price
Starts at $134,799
starts at $173,194
Starts at $129,155
Prices starting at about $90,000
Basic Warranty
12-month/15,000-miles
3 Year/36,000 Miles
60 Months/60,000 Miles
12 months/12,000 miles
Fuel economy
14–18 mpg
18 mpg on average
18–20 mpg
20 mpg
Awning
10 ft. Powered patio awning
1 Armless Power Awning
1 Power Retractable Awning
1 Manual Fiamma awning
How we reviewed
Like we always do, our Winnebago Revel Review took us to dozens of websites, forums, and online marketplaces.
Besides researching the various claims by the company on tons of independent van-living blogs such as rvinsider, we had to dedicate some hours watching and re-watching relevant video such as this.
The real reviews and comments left by previous buyers on the Winnebago’s website also come in handy at various points.
We wound up our intensive review process by interrogating the opinions and reviews made by enthusiasts in various RVing community forums like the rvnetwork and the Winnebago owners forum.
Most of the experienced revel consumers/owners freely share on the various aspects of the vehicle in such sites, and we were able to glean a lot of useful information.
Pros and Cons
This Winnebago revel review would be incomplete without a summary of its pros and cons.
Here they are:
Pros of using the Winnebago Revel
1. Extraordinarily easy to maneuver.
2. It comes with all the upscaled features required for a fulfilling home-away-from-home comfort.
3. Unlike some of the cheaper vans such as Pleasure-way ascent, I cannot think of a place this won’t go!
4. It offers more sleeping spots than most competitors. For instance, the pleasure way sleeps just two against the revel’s 4.
5. Resilient built makes it very dependable.
Cons of using the Winnebago Revel
1. Compared to the Sportsmobile Sprinter 4x4, this sprinter van is a bit pricey.
Final Thoughts
That’s all we wanted to discuss in this Winnebago Revel Review.
So, how would the revel rate on a scale of 1 to 5?
Well, in terms of livability, overall build quality, driving / towing, and floor plan, most owners, award the van a healthy score of 4 out of 5.
Bottom-line?
If you’re after a camping van that has what it takes to make your time out bliss, you may not need to look beyond the Winnebago revel
SELECTED SOURCES
https://sprinter-source.com/forum/showthread.php?t=65922&page=3
