Airstream's New Rangeline Class B RV Has the Magic, but Costs an Arm and a Leg

That's right; the 2024 Rangeline is the work of none other than Airstream. I know what you're thinking: it looks so European, and that's true. Even Airstream makes mention that the newest addition to their family is inspired by units often found overseas. Fear not; a Ram Promaster sits as the base for these buggers.

Now, this isn't the first time Airstream has built a habitat around a Promaster, and the reason we're seeing more and more of these babies in modern Airstream Class Bs is due to its engine and extra space. Overall each unit pumps out 276 HP with a 3.6 L, V6 engine. Nine speeds ensure you find the proper gear for climbs and even cruising under optimum efficiency.

But, for the new year, Airstream has taken the time to upgrade a few components and systems, one of which is the suspension. Here, SuperSprings and SumoSprings have been to grant more stability and a smoother ride. This also raises the 2024 version's ground clearance by a whole 1.5 in compared to last year's model.

Part two of the story has to do with the added space this chassis offers. Take a look at the image gallery and tell me that this isn't one massive Class B. But, all that extra space is there for a good reason; It's the perfect canvas for creating a rolling home suitable for year-round use, assuming you've taken the time to add any necessary extras. To understand a bit of what's possible, let's take a little trip through imagination land.

I want you to pretend that you've dropped at least $147,570 (€135K at current exchange rates) MSRP on the 2024 Rangeline, and that's just the starting price. When you do, you'll be looking at a towering machine with a height of 9.4 ft ( 2.9 m including AC) and 8.2 ft (2.5 m) wide. But, in that space, redesigned storage spaces, safety and security systems, and everything else you need to live a full on-road life are found.

Let's start with the interior and work our way outward. As per Airstream's comments regarding the new Rangeline, "modern minimalism" is met in the brochure, and looking closer at the whole thing, I couldn't agree more. But that's not bad news; all this means that you'll have plenty of space to move around the unit and even access goods and areas in a more fluid fashion than those often-cramped campervans.

At the rear of the Rangeline, those massive doors swing open to reveal access to the port and starboard shelves and storage blocks that transform into a double bed suitable for two people or can be used as singles. Towards the front, the left side of the unit hides a wet bath and, vis-a-vis, a galley block ready with a sink and running water, a fridge, and a microwave. As for your cooktop, you can bring your favorite. Once you've cooked your meals or brewed your coffee, sit in that two-person booth, extend the table, and grub out. Passenger and driver seats can join the fun too.

Now, one thing that I enjoyed about this unit is the way it can allow for a clear passage through itself, leading from those rear doors I mentioned all the way to the lateral sliding door. Not only can you walk clear through the whole thing, but if you're a gang of adventurers, the rear portion of the corridor can be used as precious storage space for things like kayaks, e-bikes, or a couple of jet boards. It's your road trip; do as you please.

One other aspect that I particularly liked about the new Rangeline is its inclination towards outdoor activities. It pushes its owners to embark upon a life lived outdoors, not just in the safety of a warm or cool unit. A massive awning is standard in these units, allowing you to set up an outdoor picnic or dining area, and mosquito nets let you enjoy the outdoors even if you are one of those people that just want to enjoy the interior so much.

However, I left the best for last. As an option, Airstream allows future owners to deck out their mobile homes with a roof-top tent. Yes, they cut open a massive hole in the roof of your Promaster, throw in a bed, some ripstop canvas with windows, and hand you the keys. This feature not only extends the sleeping capacity to four guests but imagine the stories and moments you can create with something like this.

Once you throw in heating and cooling systems, a generator, electrical, and all those little knick-knacks needed for on-road living, you can start to understand why Airstream is asking quite a pretty penny for this new bugger, but I can't help but feel that some of the price spikes have to do with economic turmoil all over the supply chain. Still, this timeless brand is pushing hard to maintain the bang-for-buck ratio. Something to consider if you're in the market for a fresh Class B RV.