New Leader in Compact Class C Motorhomes
A few years ago we rated the PleasureWay XLTS as a top pick among the more premium-priced compact Class C RVs (some use the B+ label). But then PleasureWay dropped this model in their decision to solely focus on Class B motorhomes and camper vans. This was an unfortunate trend other motorhome manufacturers were also following.
Our main complaints with Class B motorhomes are 1) their lack of exterior storage and 2) their cramped interior space. Our 2005 Rialta Class C has a 12.5 cu ft rear exterior storage, large enough to carry two golf bags. An in interior space our Rialta is about a foot wider inside than any Class B van coach. That additional foot makes a big difference in being able to move around. So we were happy to see PleasureWay reverse course and again offer a compact class C motorhome by bringing back the attractive Plateau XLTS model.
Powered by the deluxe Mercedes Benz Diesel powered 22′ 9″ sprinter chassis, the PleasureWay XLTS is compact in length and easy to park. Too many other manufacturers in offering a Class C on the Sprinter chassis have gone with an extended version which runs over 25 feet long, too long to be considered a compact motorhome.
Boondocking Ready
The new Plateau XLTS is nicely set up for boondocking, away from utility hookups
- 600 Amp Hour Lithium Batteries
- 3000 Watt true-sine wave inverter
- 500 watts of solar panels
- 2.5 KW Onan OG inverter generator
- 28 gallons – fresh water capacity
- 20 gallon grey holding tank
- 17 gallon black water holding tank
With the 600 amp hour batteries and 3000 watt pure-sine wave inverter you can even run the air conditioner. That capacity, plus 500 watts of solar should allow for several days of camping w/o the need for shore power. And if you run into a stretch of cloudy days, you’ve got the gen set as back up power to recharge the batteries.
Good Exterior Storage
There are three lockable external storage compartments. PleasureWay doesn’t quote the exterior storage capacity, but clearly more storage than any Class B RV. However the largest of the compartments is not long enough to carry a golf bag, one of our personal requirements in getting a new compact Class C.
One feature my wife will particularly like is the spacious dry bathroom with a nicely appointed 32″ shower with sliding doors and Corian interior finish.
Other Notable Features
I like the smooth aerodynamic lines of the XLTS; it is a classy looking unit. Its construction is steel-framed with bonded fiberglass walls with Thinsulate insulation and a one-piece moulded fiberglass roof (so no roof seams to leak).
The galley layout is well laid out, with a Corian® solid surface countertop offering adequate work space, a deep stainless steel sink, convenient microwave placement, and a 5.3 cu foot 12 v Norcold refrigerator.
As the floorplan (below) indicates, there is also a wardrobe closet, a feature not found in most Class B units, and one we consider essential. In the rear is an electric sofa that converts into a queen/king bed or you can arrange the cushions for two single beds.
Forward in the front of the coach, the Mercedes seats swing around to provide a front living area. The 360 degree swivel-mount lagun table can be mounted in the rear or in the front serving the two cab seats. When mounted in the front the table also swivels around to act as additional work space for the galley. While the table appears accessible to both seats, it may be a bit cumbersome to serve as a dining table for two. However, when the table is set up in the rear, it would work better for two person dining.
Because of the limitations of two person dining in the front living area, a drawback is the floor plan doesn’t lend itself to leaving the bed made up during the day. Having to break down the bed every morning is a chore my wife particularly dislikes. However, if one of you doesn’t mind having your plate in your lap while eating, the front-mounted table is big enough for a full dining setup for one plus extra room for a drink mug for your partner.
There are many other deluxe features (lighting, electronics, etc.) of the Plateau XLTS that I’ve omitted. Suffice to say, PleasureWay has included most every convenience feature found in other high-end Class C motorhomes.
While for my wife and I, the limited forward dining capacity and being unable to house golf bags in the exterior storage are problems, our major barrier is one many others may share: the price. MSRP $217,750 USD, ouch.
See our other top-rated 2023 Compact Class RVs here
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