2018 Northwood Desert Fox 27FS Review
Northwood’s Desert Fox series is built to handle tough terrain all year round, and without sacrificing the modern conveniences and comforts of home. The Desert Fox 27 FS is the largest of the available three floorplans.
The Desert Fox 27FS has a gross vehicle weight rating 12000 lbs, dry hitch weight of 1455 lbs, and net carrying capacity of 3305 lbs. It comes in at 32’7” long (with the hitch), 13’ tall (with A/C unit), and 8’6” wide. Including the 10-gallon water heater, there’s a fresh water capacity of 100 gallons, a gray water capacity of 47 gallons, and a black water capacity of 50 gallons. It can also carry 60 gallons of propane.
Using fully welded, thick-walled aluminum construction, it’s built on a Northwood-manufactured off-road chassis. The walls are made of polyurethane-coated multi-layered substrate with block foam insulation, and covered with one-piece continuous fiberglass.
Northwood has equipped the Desert Fox 27FS with several features meant to make off-road adventures more comfortable for year-round travellers. The roof has R-15 reflective foil insulation and the four-season package (including heated, enclosed tanks) comes standard. Stabilizer jacks and a power tongue jack make set-up a little easier and shocks on all four wheels make for smoother travels even in rough terrain.
COMPARISON: Read our review of the 2018 InTech XLT Plus Flyer
Other features to make life a little more convenient off the grid include a gas generator and 40-gallon on-bard fuel station, air compressor and pressure washer, satellite readiness and TV antenna that is WiFi extender ready. There’s also an outdoor shower, Bluetooth enabled outdoor speakers, and power awning.
A high-intensity exterior work light means you can work on your toys even if you get back after dark.
Inside, the Desert Fox 27FS manages to feel home-like despite its off-roading nature. This is thanks to features like the cathedral arched ceiling, glazed raised panel cabinet doors and drawers, solid surface countertops, and stainless steel appliances.
COMPARISON: Read our review of the 2018 KZ Sportsmen LE 240 LETH
In the kitchen, a three-burner cooktop with cover, microwave, eight-cubic-foot fridge, double sink, and pantry provide you with everything you need for making meals to fuel your days of adrenaline, while a skylight with shade lets in natural light.
In the bathroom, there’s a porcelain foot pedal toilet, skylight, shower, and a full tub so you can sit and soak after a long day.
COMPARISON: Read our review of the 2018 Forest River Cherokee Wolf Pup 17RP
In the cargo/ living area, there’s an electric bed with top bunk and ladder, convertible sofa, two rocker recliners and a pedestal table. You can opt for second bunk or optional opposing convertible sofas. When the ramp door is open, a rear screen lets you enjoy some fresh air and natural views while keeping the pests away. You can also kick back in front of the 32” Smart TV or turn on the AM/FM/CD/DVD stereo system with Bluetooth.
When it’s time to hit the road and load up your toys on to the rubber cargo decking, the living area carpet rolls up and the bed moves up and out of the way. An optional patio kit includes ramp cable and fencing so that the ramp door converts into an outdoor lounging space
In the bedroom at the front of the toy hauler, there’s a Queen-size bed with USB chargers on each side of the bed, two shirt closets and overhead storage, and reading lights.
The 2018 Northwood Desert Fox 27FS starts at about $52,000. For more information, visit http://www.northwoodmfg.com/.
