"Back to a B" Review Series! Episode 1: The Coachmen Nova
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- Опубліковано 6 лют 2025
- Viewers of the channel know we started out in a Class B RV lifestyle 12 years ago. Since then, we have had B+ Montana models, Class C RVs, and now a 35-foot fifth wheel. Our friend Nick Schmidt of Sunshine State RVs challenged us to go back to a B for a look at how campervans have changed over the years. This review kicks off our new series "Back to a B" where we thoroughly test and tour five 2024 Class B RV models. For today, let's start with Coachmen's latest Nova 20RB.
Is class B lifestyle for you? What's your favorite feature of new class Bs? Let us know what you think in comments! Check out the other tours here ► • 2024 Class B RV Review...
► Sunshine State RVs ► www.sunshinest...
► Coachmen Nova ► coachmenrv.com...
► Want to join our new RV Community? Learn more about it here: community.rvli...
00:00 The Coachmen Nova 20RB
By background, we're journalists Mike and Jennifer Wendland and this channel is all about freedom and fun through RV travel! We travel North America in our RV doing travel videos,
how-tos, RV walk-through tours and video tips about how to get the most out of the RV Lifestyle. Thanks for joining in and being a part of our RV Lifestyle!
This is the first of 5 Class B video reviews/tests we will be posting - one a day for five days in a row. A part 6 will follow that reveals what we thought were the best features and the best overall of the 5.
Looking forward to the reviews and am hoping you end up with an Embassy 🤞🏼
👍 where do I find episode 6 ?
Awesome. I can’t wait.
I highly recommend Sunshine State RV. They are great. We have a Class B and we love it. Remember: less is more.
Consider this: Cassette toilets now have an adapter so you can attach a hose and just dump it from as far away from the hole as you want to!!!
PULLMAN SINK. Everyone forgets, the Pullman Company, who made the first overnight train cars, designed those sinks to fit their sleeper cabins.
That's right!!! Totally forgot.
Yes! I saw one once at an antique store or a museum, I forget which.
They still have Pullman sinks in some rooms on some trains. The single decker Amtrak trains on the East Coast.
This is going to be great!!! Thank you for trying out various types of Class B’s!!! Can’t wait to see each one. ❤
These two are so cute, and I totally 110% trust their opinion on this vehicle and any vehicle that they may give a review. I do watch Sunshine reviews with Palooza and trust their judgment as well. I am looking forward to the day that I could go to Sunshine State and get me a Class B🎉🎉
We have the Nova 20D which is twin bed but the fridge is 3x bigger. We LOVE it!! Have had all types of RV’s and our Nova is our favorite!
I smiled when y'all mentioned that you're "spoiled" by having lithium, etc. We're also "spoiled" with the wonderful features of our Midwest Automotive Designs Patriot Class B. All electric, no generator and NO propane. We have 900amh of Battle Born lithium batteries and solar. Boondocking is so easy!! No hookups needed. Love it!!
(We purchased our Patriot at Sunshine State RVs. 😊)
You say no propane like that’s an automatic plus for everybody. You must be driving an electric van too
@@GOLDVIOLINbowofdeath It is a plus for RVers who don't want to deal with propane. It's a matter of personal choice. 😊
The little draw under the sink is a spot for your sponge, scrubbing pad, bottle brush to dry. Since it is all plastic, it won't be hurt as they dry.
I knew that was for the sponge, but I also thought that was really a cute idea to put your jewelry in there when you're washing dishes.
33,000 miles and we love our 2021 Nova RB, especially the windows and open feel. We have plenty of storage for clothes and cooking/food in the overhead cabinets. The refrigerator holds more than you’d expect; we store our hose and electrical cord in the drawer that Jennifer would use for pots and pans. We always turn on the Tow/Haul feature; our mpg average is 17.6. We remounted the lagun table to the forward aisle corner of the passenger-side bed which makes it more versatile for us.
It's the power to climb hills/mountains that's really telling.
Comment: I appreciated your attention to some things other reviewers haven’t pointed out. Particularly appreciate comments related to the chassis. Personally, the MB chassis is my least favourite as it feels the most subject to sway.
This is a great series! I have a 2023 Coachmen Beyond 22D LI3 Wht ext/Wht cabs on a 23 chassis and I love it! I started with the Nova but quickly realized that the chassis in a class B really matters when deciding on getting one. A class B gets driven A LOT more than any other class because it is not only fun to drive but super easy to get around! I hope you review the Beyond. The dual tires in the back almost double your CCC compared to Nova. The AWD and massive power from the twin turbo give piece of mind when needed. The cab and driving experience feels more like a car compared to a truck. This is just my opinion but see for yourself. Safe travels!
Thanks for your comments on the Nova vs The Beyond. I’m in the market for a Class B, and while there are a lot of Promaster options out there, my gut tells me that I would feel a lot safer driving a Ford. I believe Coachmen are coming out with some new Ford models later this year.
Love, love, love the Lithium in my 2021KL Travato with twin beds (one is 80” long). I’m 6’2”! I was so glad I opted for the Lithium package. The Lithium runs everything. The Promaster van is (I think) the widest Class B.
Sounds like a dream
I'm sure these things you are looking for and doing the reviews will really be helpful for those looking for similar things. - Michelle
Thanks for giving your first impressions.
It’s been awhile since you’ve been in a Van because you are surprised there isn’t outside storage. A true Van or class b doesn’t have outside storage. Positive for me that you only see the beauty of the Van.
What a great idea! Who better than you to do respected reviews? ❤
We really love our cassette toilet - I didn’t think we would, but it’s so easy to empty and can do it almost anywhere. Oh, and too bad you didn’t try the newest 2023 chassis - some nice improvements.
FINALLY - they paid attention to the Van Dwellers with the lagoon table and better storage, misquote netting, window are fabulous and window coverings. Swing around front seats are great, and bathroom sink to save space. I really like RAMs
Love the twin beds Nova! Great for middle of the night trips to the rest room.
Does the 2024 model have LED headlights yet or still 1820 's halogens?
In future episodes, the MSRP would also be nice to know for the sake making comparisons.
Rarely does one pay MSRP...so those numbers are not real.
Hi Muscle Mike (31:10), Speedy Jen (15:25), and Standing Bo (8:25). I have been looking forward to this series eagerly. My thoughts on this Coachmen Nova are:
😁 - spacious interior (light color helped), compact but complete kitchen with induction cooktop, everything about the windows, flushing porcelain toilet, and user-friendly hookups.
😟 - tight cab, no exterior storage.
That sandwich and fruit looked delicious!
Thank you for van #1 and on to #2!
Price? Only THE most important feature!
Solar option is nice but at 20,000 dollars more is crazy. Also reviewed some and they seem very complicated systems.
Mine.came with AGM. That said, I may just add a couple lithium batteries.
Thanks for the great review! Come back to Class B! We are Class B owners and love it!. Didn't see anything in this model review that I'd trade for however.The best feature on this model - the rear view mirror camera! What a great addition. Lithium is not standard?? Looking forward to seeing the other reviews!
I enjoyed this video, thank you. We have this Coachmen Nova Li on order, but the newer, updated model.
Love the twin beds! When I want to lay down, I want to do it now. Not have to mess with pulling a bed down. 24 ft is not too small. Don’t care for those smaller ones. Have fun. What a marvelous treat to try them all! Enjoy!
Hello! Greetings from a new subscriber in east central Illinois farm country. Happy I ran across your channel this evening. You're a sweet couple, with so much knowledge and experience. Appreciate everything about your channel ❤
After 25+ years, in just 2 campers that O must rely on my husband, a son, or friend, to pull & set up for me; I'm thinking seriously of shopping for something to make me independent!!! I believe I can drive/handle something like what you've shown us here. Looking forward to viewing more❤ THANKS, & safe travels!
Thank you for the kind words -- we are glad you found us!
Thank you for sharing!
I know you don't need it but try a Pop-Top van one day!
We have the Pleasure way Lexor on the 3500 Ram promaster and love it. Twin beds or a queen setup, gray and black tanks, solar, super fun and easy. Have fun.
I would love if you added a custom conversion to see how different they can be.
Where would you put your grill? Tools, awning or clamshell? You say the couch/bed was comfortable, but it looked hard. I did agree with all your positive points. Very roomy, etc. but having to move your slinky to the gray tank, no way. That 6 cylinder motor won’t pull much of a car! Especially not up the hills. This one’s not for me, but I did like everything Jen pointed out!! Just not for me. 😉
Love the outro music
I am 5’2” so my Nova fits me fine.
I am so glad you guys are doing this because I have decided that this is the type of rv I must have. I love the a’s, some of the c’s, most definitely the B+ like the leisure’s are my choice but in order to make sense and use it for everything, this is the,smart choice as I live in a city with rules about parking these in your drive. I will start here. Can’t wait to keep watching you guys.
Comment. I watched your channel in late 2020 and 2021 and really dreamed about a Leisure van. So in Feb of 2021 we drove a few states to a dealership and looked at a bunch of different Bs and one Wonder Leisure. As soon as I compared the length and size, I was nope, I want something smaller to fit anywhere. We saw the Nova and loved it. Now almost 3 years later, still love it. 20k plus miles and more trips planned. P.S. Your black tank handle was open in the vid. Hope that was not a surprise. ❤
You guys are super easy to follow!
You articulate so well, and I understood everything !
And I trust your experience, and wisdom ! Thank you !
i think the front storage is great for camera and equipment for fast access heh.
Great job! Thanks for sharing! We will be picking up or EMBASSY DOLPHIN S on Ford Transit chassis soon! Looking forward to seeing your thoughts on the Ford Transit!
Fun to see you back in a B. The width of the Promaster is its biggest plus!
Embassy RV, which you toured, also uses the smart plug and has some of the best insulation! Most vans don't have exterior storage. Enjoy your next vans!
Thank you for the review and video. Blessings to you.
Does the 2024 model have LED headlights yet or still 1820 's halogens?
@@michaelsmith9308 I have no idea. You need to ask them that question not me.
Love it, the Amish part too!
Comment: we love love love our Nova RB 2022 ! Can’t even imagine going to something different.
You guys are wonderful.. god bless you
My first time watch you two. Very good job. 😊👍
Thanks, and we hope you'll be back!
One problem I see is the small refrigerator and freezer.
In my 2019 RAM 3500 class B, there is a large compartment in each front door. I carry a 30 😢amp cord in the drivers door, along with a truckers air gauge. I carry the 25' water hose, assorted washers and fittings, and cable for TV in the passenger side. Enjoy your travels 😉
Thinking about getting a high-top = Ford Transit Trail AWD = rugged. And great for TN mtns. & snow.
I’m really enjoying your honest opinions on these b’s
Gratitude folks. Very helpful!! 🙏💙😊
I LOVE your Norwegian pup.... we have 2 siblings Sisters. They are precious... nice RV also
I like the pro master Nova. I could travel comfortably in it. I loved the twin beds😊❤
I appreciate your thorough review. You cover all of the “live in” details. Excellent work. I think B vans are great as a daily driver.
Thank you!😊
Looks like a winner..like all, the PROOF will be in use/longevity.
Had to chuckle about having a loud blinker as I dislike any noise, especially at a traffic signal.
Ur choice
Hi. 1st time watching your channel. Was very informative and you gave us a lot of info. Always wondered how much room are in these. Looking forward to continue with you. Thanks so much
Thank you so much for watching and for the feedback!
I noticed you said. "You know what this is." Please don't assume. Some of us are newbies. We need to know what everything is. I enjoyed the content.
Great Program
I think the black tank is in the back and gray tank in middle with the twin bed Nova.
Going to watch you in the Coach man beyond
Later. Thinking of the coachmen beyond. If it will part in a parking spot
Thanks
Ron
Just wanted to let you know that there is additional storage under the seats to store shoes and such and if you lift the beds (or just one side at least) up there is storage underneath. 😊 But I agree, for the price of a Nova wish there was more “garage” storage but in this specific Nova model that just is not the case.
Great content and review...thank you.
Great to have you review the class Bs. You have so much experience that we all can learn from
Based on the vehicle specs you flashed on the screen the difference between the GVWR and the GCWR was only about 2000lbs so you really can’t tow a vehicle behind it. A nice spec to reference would be the OCCC and also running each rig across the scales would be interesting.
When Nick's crew from SunshineStateRVs.com drove it to us in Fort Walton Beach, FL, they towed a small Toyota behind it, which they used to drive back to Gainsville.
I noticed that 2000 lbs also. That is an important note. They would have been running empty while towing that car for the return trip. If you are actually loaded up for a trip and/or have a lot of water in the tanks you wouldn't want to tow anything.
I think the class b nova would be perfect for someone like me traveling solo. Also, i'm only 5'5", and i'm not going to have a huge dog sitting next to me or someone in the passenger seat so the cab will seem like it has more room I think for me. Although I may get a little pup companion to put in the passenger seat. I really love the size of it.
And again, for 2 people, it may be close . I had a Coachman RV class C and really love the Coachman quality.
I love your doggo
You had me at Stinky Slinkey
❤❤❤❤ Blessings and Thanks for the review.
Comment. I know your not taking requests, but I just thought I should say you really need to check out a Pleasure Way. We looked for over a year at class b’s and just feel in love with Pleasure Way.
those Rams rust away in no time in the rust belt!
I hope Embassy is on the list!
You two do a great job! Thanks!
Great tour!
Glad you enjoyed it!
I Love you 2! Would nova be ok for one person - petite? Who knows nothing about mechanics?????
With the baby bear Nova as Jen was merging onto I-65, what was the reddish wave that continuously rolled downward on screen btw u2. Around 43:59 on this video
In our class B, I put the air tag behind the toilet cassette. If you search for the tag, it looks like it's in the bathroom, possibly in the toilet. I have no preference between a black tank or a cassette, just rather not go with a bag-it approach.
Comment: I thought this video was just great. Thanks for making it
Glad you enjoyed it!
12:45 It took me a bit to see what you meant by 'cramped' in the driver's/passenger area but now it's clear, you're really hedged up front.
Enjoying your back to class B series. One question, where do you store the extra cushions at night?
Black tank is in the rear. gray is middle. .hope he reads it. other wise bad surprise.
How much out the door? Without pricing one tends to move on to the ones kind enough to give you the price
I would like all Water inlets to be lockable. Did you shower in the Nova? Wondering if the curtain sticks to you as you shower?
What are the MPGs on these vans?
Thanks guys for the video, it answered a lot of questions I’ve had in my mind about the Nova, and I look forward to watching the rest of the series. I know a lot of people prefer the cassette toilet because it means they don’t have to go hunting for somewhere to dump a black tank. But don’t they still run into the same issue with the gray tank even with a cassette toilet? Surely you can’t just dump the gray tank wherever you want?
You're not supposed to. Unfortunately, but many do.
Does the 2024 model have LED headlights yet or still 1820 's halogens?
I'm so glad I found your channel! I just subscribed.
Comment: Using the Americanizer looks like a nice option for a cassette toilet if you're used to a black tank since it serves as an attachment for the hose.
Is the heat on that rv from the main gas tank? Or did we miss the propane someplace?
There is propane you can use all propane all electric or do a combo.
I realize outside storage in Class B’s is a luxury, however this one is a pass for me due to lack of outside storage. Also, I don’t really care for all of the outside fixtures etc to be exposed. I’d prefer for them to be behind doors or panels like some of the other units have. I do like the interior. Really cute and functional.
There was a surprising amount of room inside the Nova. It velt very spacious for being only 20 feet long. But NONE of the Class Bs we tested had outside storage.
@@RVLifestyleI wonder if the Class Bs with a garage under a fixed bed is the maybe the storage solution? Otherwise where do you put your outdoor chairs etc.?
Please try the Noovo Plus
Is there storage under the twin beds/couches?
@@marysheppardblum2122 no storage below the beds
I can't believe you guys stopped at Priester's and didn't show us!
Was there storage under the beds?
Sewer hose storage?
Nice i think i like the 59 k better
I think a lack of outside storage compartments is standard on a Class B RV. You got spoiled with your class C wide-body models :) I wonder if there is storage under one of the beds... That would be a nifty place to store things like rain boots, and leveling blocks.
How was the road noise? MPG?
Are there any seat belts on the beds?
Comment: We’re in the same boat. But looking at a Class B + Leisure Travel Wonder model or Chinook Maverick is what we’ve narrowed it down to. 😊 And bonus they BOTH fit in standard parking spaces.
Promaster has its own transmission risks and leaking headlights I much prefer the Fird chassis.
I like the openness of this plan but just no place to store outside items unless they are really small. For me, everything needs a permanent place and no outside boxes. Can't stand clutter especially in a small space.