Coachmen Cross Trail 20XG: A Detailed Review

The Coachmen Cross Trail 20XG is a Class C motorhome that aims to bridge the gap between a traditional Class B van and a larger Class C RV, offering a blend of maneuverability and impressive cargo capacity. It's particularly appealing to outdoor enthusiasts due to its innovative storage solutions.

Key Highlights and Praises:

• Massive "Bike Garage" / Exterior Storage: This is arguably the most celebrated feature. The Cross Trail 20XG boasts an exceptionally large exterior storage area, often referred to as a "bike garage," located beneath the rear bed. This space is designed to accommodate oversized gear like bicycles, kayaks, or other adventure equipment, making it ideal for active lifestyles. Many users appreciate the ability to store gear securely and out of the elements.

• Impressive Cargo Carrying Capacity (CCC): With a CCC often exceeding 2,000 pounds (even with full water tanks), the Cross Trail 20XG stands out. This high capacity allows users to bring along a significant amount of gear without worrying about overloading the RV.

• All-Electric Coach (Optional/Newer Models): Some configurations, particularly the "EV" or "Extreme" packages, offer an all-electric setup with high-capacity inverters and lithium batteries. This provides excellent off-grid capabilities, allowing for the operation of most coach functions, including the A/C, without a generator.

• Well-Insulated Walls: The 2-inch thick, fiberglass-over-composite walls are well-insulated, contributing to better temperature regulation inside the coach, even in varying climates.

• Ducted Air Conditioning: The ducted A/C system provides quieter operation and more even temperature distribution throughout the RV, enhancing comfort.

• Large Propane Tank: While some models are all-electric, those with propane tanks often feature a generously sized tank, reducing the frequency of refills.

• Maneuverability: At around 24 feet in length, it's considered more maneuverable than larger Class C RVs, making it easier to navigate tighter spaces and park.

• Thoughtful Interior Layout: The interior often includes a double-size electric bed that can be raised to expand the garage area, a dinette, a fully equipped galley kitchen with a 2-burner induction cooktop and convection microwave, and a large shower compared to many Class B vans.

• Ford Transit Chassis with AWD (Optional): Built on the reliable Ford Transit T350 chassis with a 3.5L EcoBoost engine, it offers good power and, in many models, optional All-Wheel Drive (AWD) for enhanced traction. Ford's safety systems like Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane-Keeping System, and Pre-Collision Assist are often included.

• Price Point: Historically, the Cross Trail has been noted for offering good value for its features.

Areas for Improvement:

• Single-Pane Windows: A common critique is the use of single-pane glass windows, which can be thermally inefficient and lead to heat loss or gain, despite the well-insulated walls.

• Length (for some): While compact for a Class C, some users accustomed to shorter vehicles might find the 24-foot length still a bit long for tight parking or extreme maneuverability.

• Build Quality (General RV Industry Comment): As with many RVs, some general comments in forums suggest that Coachmen (and other mass-produced RVs) might have varying build quality, with some owners recommending thorough inspections before purchase and being prepared for minor issues.

• Lithium Battery as Option: While the all-electric setup is a plus, the high-capacity lithium batteries are often an optional upgrade, meaning the base models might come with AGM batteries that offer less boondocking capacity.

Ideal User:

The Coachmen Cross Trail 20XG is an excellent choice for:

• Active individuals or couples who need significant storage for outdoor gear (bikes, kayaks, climbing equipment).

• Those seeking a more maneuverable RV than a traditional Class C but still desiring more space and amenities than a Class B van.

• Campers who enjoy boondocking (especially with the optional lithium and solar packages).

• Buyers looking for a feature-rich RV at a competitive price point.

Specifications

Chassis & Engine:

• Chassis Brand: Ford

• Chassis Model: Transit T350

• Engine: 3.5L EcoBoost V6

• Horsepower: 310 hp @ 5,000 RPM

• Torque: 400 ft-lbs. @ 2,500 RPM

• Fuel Type: Gasoline

• Transmission: 10-Speed Automatic Overdrive with SelectShift

• Driveline Type: 4x2 (AWD optional)

Dimensions & Weights:

• Exterior Length: Approximately 24' 1" - 24' 2"

• Exterior Width: 7' 7" (91 inches)

• Exterior Height: 10' 4" - 10' 6"

• Interior Height: 6' 7" (79 inches)

• Wheelbase: 156"

• GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating): 11,000 lbs.

• GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating): 15,000 lbs.

• GAWR Front: 4,630 lbs.

• GAWR Rear: 7,275 lbs.

• Dry Weight (UVW): Approximately 8,510 lbs.

• Cargo Carrying Capacity (CCC): Approximately 2,490 lbs.

• Hitch Weight: 4,000 lbs. (Towing Capacity)

Capacities:

• Fuel Capacity: 31-32 gallons

• Fresh Water Capacity: 30 gallons

• Gray Water Capacity: 27 gallons

• Black Water Capacity: 28 gallons

• LP Tank Capacity: 68-70 lbs. (approximately 16 gallons)

Interior Features:

• Sleeping Capacity: 3 (Double-size electric bed, convertible dinette/sofa)

• Available Beds: Double

• Cooktop: 2-burner induction cooktop

• Microwave: Convection Microwave

• Refrigerator: 12V Refrigerator (often three-way)

• Water Heater: Tankless

• A/C: 11k BTU High-Efficiency A/C

• TV: Cabover Smart TV (interior/exterior ready)

• Windows: Large sliding tinted windows

• Bathroom: Large shower facilities (compared to Class B vans), toilet, sink

• Power System (Optional/EV Models): ECOFLOW Power System with 3,600W Inverter, 416 Amp/hr Lithium Battery (optional dual batteries)

Exterior Features:

• Awning: 14' Power Armless Awning with LED Lights and Wind Sensor

• Storage: Extra large exterior storage ("bike garage"), basement storage (approx. 130 cu. ft.)

• Sidewalls: Azdel Composite Vacuum Bonded Sidewalls

• Roof: CrossFlex Roof Membrane (puncture resistant)

• Front Cap: Molded Fiberglass Front Cap

• Solar: Up to 400W of roof solar (optional)

• Connectivity: WiFi Ranger (optional)

• Exterior Hookups: LP Quick Disconnect & Fresh Water Port

• Safety Features (Ford): Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane-Keeping System, Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, Ford AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control, Back-Up Camera & Monitor (optional side view cameras)

Optional Packages (e.g., Xtreme Package):

• Van Compass 2" Suspension Lift

• Falcon Racing Shocks

• All Terrain Tires

• Black Out Aluminum Rims

• Front Bumper Brush Guard w/ LED Lights

• Rigid Running Boards

• XTREME Graphics Package