2012 Winnebago Journey and Itasca Meridian 43E Unveiled

Lucas Cooney
by Lucas Cooney

Winnebago has introduced the new tag-axle 42E to its 2012 Winnebago Journey and Itasca Meridian Class A diesel lineup.

“Our diesel products have never been better than in 2012,” says Roger Martin, Winnebago’s vice president of sales and marketing. “In fact, over the last three years, we have more than doubled our diesel market share to become the second largest manufacturer of Class A diesels. Much of that is thanks to innovative, new floorplans like the 42E that offers amenities and spacious living that make them a cut above the competition.”

As the first tag-axle floorplan in the popular Journey and Meridian lineups, Winnebago says the new triple slide 42E has it all. This bath and a half floorplan features a full wall slide on the passenger side of the coach that includes a 40-inch LCD HDTV, Euro Recliner with pull-out table, buffet with extendable dining table and chairs, four-door refrigerator, pantry and residential-like bedroom wardrobe. The living area also offers a Rest Easy extendable sectional sofa, tray ceiling design and polished ceramic tile for an inviting, upscale look.

The fully equipped mid-coach galley features an innovative pull-out island for more prep space, as well as increases your storage space with three drawers on full-extension slides. Besides the wardrobe that features a full-length clothes rod, his and hers three drawer units and an adjustable shoe shelf, the bedroom includes a queen bed nestled in the slideout and dual nightstands. A new, power-adjustable king bed is also optional. The private master bath in the rear of the coach features Winnebago’s spacious BIG Shower as well as plenty of storage, with a washer/dryer optional. A half bath sits mid-coach.

The 42E is built on Winnebago’s 44,320-lb. GVWR Maxum lowered rail tag-axle chassis that features 220 cubic feet of exterior storage. The 42E has plenty of power too with a 400 hp Cummins ISL 8.9L turbo-charged diesel engine.

“The new 42E is a great floorplan at a great price point,” says Mike Regan, president and general manager of Crestview RV Center in Buda, Texas. “I love the bath and a half floorplan, and I think customers are really going to like the usability and layout of this coach.”

The 2012 Winnebago Journey and Itasca Meridian 42E make their retail market debut at the Florida RV SuperShow in Tampa, Fla.

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