2016 Winnebago Navion 24J Review
Perfect for both solo and family travel, the Winnebago Navion is a nimble Class C motorhome that brings home to the road.
There are four floorplans to choose from, and we’ve decided to explore the 24J. It has a length of 25’8”, exterior height of 11’1”, exterior width of 7’6” and exterior storage of 48 cubit feet. The Navion has an awning length of 16’, interior height of 6’8” and interior width of 7’3”. For liquids, it has a freshwater tank capacity of 33 gallons, water heater capacity of 6 gallons, black water tank capacity of 34 gallons and gray water tank capacity of 40 gallons. Its LP capacity is 13 gallons and fuel capacity is 26.4 gallons. Other details include a gross combined weight rating of 15,250 lbs, gross vehicle weight rating of 11,030 lbs, front gross axle weight rating of 4,410 lbs and rear gross axle weight rating of 7,720 lbs. Finally, the Navion 24J has a wheelbase of 170”.
Powered by a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis, the Winnebago Navion makes sitting behind the wheel more comfortable than lying on the couch. The Primera cab seats have armrest, adjustable lumbar support, headrest, recline, swivel and slide. For safety, both the passenger and driver’s seats have airbags and three-point seatbelts. Power mirrors are equipped with defrost and turn signals, and power door locks have a remote. To help you stay safe and awake, the cab features a radio/rearview monitor system, equipped with a 6” touch screen color monitor, handheld remote, iPod/MP3 input and color rear camera. For an extra price, you can request an Infotainment Center with Rand McNally RV GPS, which comes with a 6” touch screen color monitor with a split screen function. If you want to up your comfort level, you can also request two cab seat lounge cushions.
COMPARISON: Read our review of the Thor Citation
Our favorite part of the Winnebago Navion is the patio. Equipped with powered patio awning, the Navion provides shade while you listen to your favorite album through the exterior speaker system. When the day ends, the party doesn’t have to – just turn on your LED porch light and keep the party going. For convenience, there’s an exterior service center with color-coded labeling, making hooking up as easy as pushing a button. When you’re ready to go inside, walk up the automatic entrance steps.
The entrance door opens up to a beautiful lounge. To unwind, turn on the HDTV or coach stereo system, equipped with AM/FM radio, alarm clock, CD/DVD player, input jack, Bluetooth and two speakers with a subwoofer. If you want to catch up on the news, you can turn on your 28” HDTV, located directly across from the u-shaped dinette/sofa/sleeper. Equipped with two footrests, you can kick back, relax and enjoy the show. To block out natural light, you can roll down your MCD roller shades and close the sliding screen on your skylight/roof vent. The interior features LED lighting throughout, reducing lighting energy consumption by up to 70%. If you’re travelling with more than two people, you can request an overhead bunk with a ladder and bunk privacy curtain.
COMPARISON: Read our review of the Itasca Cambria 27K
You can say goodbye to gas station dinners because the Navion 24J is equipped with a versatile kitchen. Its amenities include a microwave/convection, two-burner range top with a flip-up gas cover, Norcold two-door refrigerator/freezer, and cold-water filtration system. For an extra price you can request an interior upgrade package, providing you with sink covers and a frosted acrylic galley backsplash with accent lighting. With an overhead compartment, pantry and drawers, there’s ample storage space for your dishes, perishables and whatever else you want to tuck away.
The bathroom is equipped with the essentials, and more. The shower comes with a retractable, self-cleaning shower screen and flexible showerhead. To save on energy costs, a skylight above the shower allows the sun’s rays to light the way. Storage space is found above and under the sink. Finally, you’ll find a towel rack beside the shower and a porcelain toilet.
COMPARISON: Read our review of the Coachmen Prism 24M
After a long day on the road, you’ll need your beauty sleep. The bedroom is small, but fit for a king. The bed comes with a headboard, foam mattress, mattress cover and under-bed storage. You can request a 22” HDTV for the bedroom and watch TV until you fall asleep. In the morning, roll up the shades on your panoramic windows and let the sunshine in.
The Winnebago Navion 24J sells for around $110,000. Visit WinnebagoInd.com for more information.
