In the ever-evolving world of recreational vehicles, established manufacturers are always striving to come up with new designs, layouts, and features to meet the diverse needs of adventure seekers, but sometimes, new market entrants can pose a serious challenge to the incumbent firms. Take, for instance, Brinkley RV, a trailblazing newcomer in the RV travel world that offers upscale fifth-wheelers, toy haulers, and travel trailers that raise the bar in RV design.
Founded in 2022 by prominent names in the industry, Brinkley RV has been the talk of the RV world lately. That's because the Goshen, Indiana-based company has been on an impressive upward trend in the last couple of years, consistently growing its team by adding top-tier talent and expanding its lineup with premium products.
The latest addition to the brand's portfolio is a new line of travel trailers named the Model Z Air. Officially revealed in January at the Florida RV SuperShow, the new line joins the Model G toy haulers and Model Z fifth-wheelers and includes two models - the Model Z Air 285, touted as the ultimate couple's couch, and the 295, which boasts a family-friendly floorplan.
Aligned with the company's declared goal to "deliver high-quality campers with unique features and outstanding build quality," the newcomers offer a blend of modern design and technology with traditional camping amenities.
There is a lot to like about this new line, and the modern exterior is one of the things that will catch your eye. Brinkley uses the latest premium-grade materials and its automotive sealant package for the exterior, which is characterized by sleek, clean lines, industry-exclusive frameless windows, and automotive-grade 3M graphics. The automotive inspiration is also evident in the design of the front cap and LED lights with lens covers.
Photo: Brinkley RV
In terms of dimensions, the Model Z Air 285 camper measures 33 feet and 11 inches (10.3 meters) in length and 11.6 feet (3.5 meters) in height, boasting a dry weight of 9,242 pounds (nearly 4,190 kg) and a GVWR of 11,495 lbs (5,214 kg). It has a fully enclosed underbelly, laminated exterior walls with high-gloss gel coat fiberglass and azdel, a maintenance-free roof, and quality insulation, which makes it suitable for year-round camping or full-time RV-ing.
Built on a drop frame chassis, the Model Z Air travel trailers are ready for any on-road or off-road trip with heavy-duty 5,600 lbs. axles with 6,000 lbs. leaf springs, Road Armor shock-absorbing trailer equalizers and shock absorbers for better cushioning, and 16″ custom aluminum luxury wheels wrapped in E-rated 10-ply Goodyear Wrangler Workhorse tires.
Every aspect of these travel trailers has been well thought out, and the attention to detail is evident throughout, especially when it comes to the refined residential interior that offers a harmonious blend of style and comfort. As mentioned in the beginning, Brinkley RV offers two floorplans, both of which comprise a huge living/cooking area thanks to two slide-out sections, a luxurious bedroom, and a modern, functional bathroom. The main differences between the two floorplans include a slightly different living room/kitchen configuration and the addition of a secondary, private bedroom with 54"x 74" bunk beds in the case of the family-oriented Model Z Air 295.
Inside the trailers, the seven-foot-tall sidewalls, coupled with a vaulted or barreled ceiling, create an incredible feeling of openness, while the company's signature Craft Sense solid wood trim throughout, quality finishes, and residential fixtures give the interior an overall refined, premium look and feel.
Photo: Brinkley RV
One of the standout features of the Model Z Air line is the residential-style bedroom with a walkaround queen-size bed that sits on a platform with large storage drawers that open to the outside and lockable in-floor steel safe, two large bedside cubbies with outlets and USB charging stations, and a closet that can be used for clothes storage and can even house a washer/dryer unit. A smart TV and an electric fireplace enhance the luxury feel of this space.
Two slide-outs in the main living area make room for premium residential amenities, including a free-standing island with solid-surface countertop, a large pantry, a 16-cu-ft 12-volt refrigerator, and modern full-size appliances in the gourmet kitchen, as well as a seating space with two fancy recliners strategically placed in front of an entertainment area with a large TV on a televator and a 5,000 BTU fireplace in the living room.
There is also a new feature right next to the recliners - a four-person dinette that transforms into a bed with help from a separate ottoman. An office nook with a custom solid wood desk, two chairs, and overhead cabinets completes the unique design.
Photo: Brinkley RV
When it comes to the 295 floorplan, the main area configuration is a bit different, with one of the slide-outs including not two but three recliners and a removable table so that owners can use this space for dining as well, and there is also an eat-in kitchen island with bar stools. The sleeper dinette and the desk are no longer included, but this model has a secondary bedroom with bunks instead, which makes it more suitable for family life.
The bathroom hides behind a space-saving passage door and is also incredibly functional, with everything you need for comfortable travels. It includes a one-piece fiberglass shower with seat and storage, a porcelain toilet, a vanity with a large lighted mirror, and a pass-through storage cabinet.
In order to ensure owners will be able to explore further away and won't be confined to RV parks, the Model Z Air travel trailers come equipped with 370 Watts of solar power, air conditioner, two 30 lbs. LP/propane tanks, 62 gallons of fresh water, and 110 gallons of gray water.
Other noteworthy highlights of these premium RVs include large outdoor storage compartments, a wide-stance ladder for easy access to the walkable roof, two large awnings with LED lights for plenty of shade, and a backup camera.
While Brinkley RV is a relatively new player in the RV industry, the experience and skill of the team shine through. With excellent build quality, a sleek design, and premium features and amenities, the Model Z Air travel trailers are bound to appeal to all outdoor enthusiasts. In terms of pricing, the Z Air 285 model starts at $87,545, while the 295 variant is available for $83,200.
After spending a few years as a copy editor, Ancuta decided to put down the eraser and pick up the writer's pencil. Her favorites subjects are unusual car designs, travel trailers and everything related to the great outdoors. Full profile
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