Just yesterday, Porsche introduced a new member of the Macan EV family, the Macan GTS. Historically, GTS models offer only marginal power increases — the real improvements come in handling and feel. That’s much the same story this time around. Of course, as of this writing, BMW doesn’t have an iX3 for sale that directly competes with the Macan GTS, so we look at the next best thing: the iX M70. And, shockingly, the two are much better matches for one another than you might initially expect. While the Macan GTS is considerably smaller, pricing is within a few thousand dollars of the iX M70. The two produce similar power, and will likely share a target demographic. That demographic being electric SUV shoppers with a need for speed. Here’s how the two stack up.
Exterior Design
The new Porsche Macan GTS sports some new styling cues that will actually be available on all Macan EVs beginning next summer. Of course, the sporty GTS includes them as standard. A variety of blacked out trim pieces — including front and rear clips, side “blades”, and wheel arches — gives the electric SUV an edgier look. It’s not altogether different than the details BMW includes on the iX M70. Optional 22-inch wheels come an inch shy of what BMW will sell you.
The exterior is perhaps one of the most important differentiators between the two cars, though. The iX’s wheelbase is five inches (127 mm) longer, and the SUV overall stretches seven inches (178 mm) longer than the Porsche. The iX ultimately sits around two inches taller and stretches an inch wider than the Porsche, too. It’s surprisingly pretty close when you consider the iX is kind of a segment up from the Macan, at least in size. Either way, the Macan will likely feel just a tad bit more agile than the iX. Aesthetically? Neither are conventionally beautiful, and we’re inclined to call it a tie.
Interior Design
Much like our first look at the Cayenne EV interior, the Macan EV’s interior is a tad heavier on screens. Which is interesting; that comparison put two next-gen products back-to-back yet the same overarching critique still applies to these two “older” SUVs. If nothing else, at least that’s consistency in design. Anyway, the Macan GTS offers a slightly sportier-looking cockpit, but overall functionality seems very similar to the iX. The iX also has a bit more room in between the passenger and driver, thanks to the floating center console design. Generally, the iX will be roomier, too — remember, it’s still a half-step up from the Macan’s segment.
Technology
The Porsche Macan GTS doesn’t get anything too terribly unique in the way of technology. The car’s in-cabin tech is mostly the same as everywhere else; standard CarPlay/Android Auto, big screen, navigation, and more. Although Porsche doesn’t give a range estimate, every other version of the Macan makes it way less than the 300 miles of range the iX M70 has, so we’re giving the win to the iX in the range category. The iX’s larger battery (112.8 kWh vs. 95 kWh) is likely a large contributing factor. The Macan does beat out the iX M70 in peak charge speed; 270 kW compared to 195 kW.
Performance
Porsche blessed the Macan GTS with a battery pack good for up to 563 horsepower (420 kW) in “overboost” situations; normal output is 509 horsepower (380 kW). A wicked 704 pound-feet of torque (954 Nm) allows the Macan to quickly move out of its own way. The Macan GTS is quick, but it’s not the quickest Macan in the lineup. The Turbo still outshines it, as does the BMW iX M70. The iX can make up to 650 (470 kW) horsepower and 811 pound-feet (1,100 Nm); although, the latter figure is restricted to times when Launch Control is active. Either way, BMW says the iX M70 will accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 3.6 seconds; Porsche says the same of the Macan GTS.
But again, the GTS prime directive was never about straight line speed. Goodies like Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV+), which includes a limited-slip diff, Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), trim-specific dampers and roll bars, and a “Track Endurance Mode” ensure this will be the most fun Macan EV from behind the wheel. Other bonuses, like a standard Sport Chrono Package and available rear-steer, help, too. The smaller, lighter GTS will almost assuredly be more fun to take around a curve than the iX M70.
The iX M70 starts at $112,675, and Porsche’s Macan GTS EV commands $105,350. Overall, the two are closer competitors than the size disparity might have one believing. We think the Macan GTS will be an even closer rival for the high-performance trim of the iX3. It’ll likely be called the iX3 M60, but that car’s still quite a ways away. Spring 2026 marks the start of Macan GTS EV deliveries. Are you considering one?
When the Mercedes-Benz W196 R Streamliner came up for auction in February this year, it became the second most expensive car ever sold. The car was sold for $54 million!
The legendary race from the 1950s was recently spotted on the streets of Mexico City. Who in their right mind would drive a car this valuable on public roads, you would think? Well, fortunately, this one’s a replica.
Mercedes had built 4 examples of the W196 R to go racing. The car, which sold for a record amount, was chassis no. 00009/54, raced by none other than Juan Manuel Fangio and Sir Stirling Moss.
The W196 R is characterised by its streamlined body, designed to slice through the air. The speedster has a single seat with a tiny windscreen, a 4-spoke wooden steering wheel and a roll hoop at the back.
Under the long hood is a 2.5-litre straight-eight M196 engine, which makes 290 hp and features dry sump lubrication and fuel injection.
One of the largest consumer RV Shows in the U.S. takes place each September in Hershey, Pennsylvania. This year, the Hershey RV Show will be held from September 10th through September 14th at the Giant Center. Joe and I have attended the Hershey RV Show with our friend Scott Watson from Go Small Live Large!
2025 Hershey RV Show Details
Below are the details for the 2025 Hershey RV Show.
When: Wednesday, September 10th to Sunday September 14th
Where: Giant Center 550 West Hersheypark Drive Hershey, PA 17033
General Admission Prices:
Wednesday, Thursday, Friday: $12
Saturday: $17
Sunday: $8
After 3 PM (Wed–Sat): $7
3-Day Pass (Wed–Fri only): $25
Children 12 and under are Free
Hours: 9am to 7pm Wed-Sat and 9am to 5pm Sun
The cost to get into the show varies depending on which day and what time you want to attend and whether you qualify for a special discount.
Visit the Hershey RV Show Ticket Page for all the options.
Free Parking at the Hershey RV Show! Just make sure to park in the GIANT Center Lots.
Service animals are permitted at the show along with pets in a “COMPLETELY ENCLOSED carrier/stroller.”
Show website: https://www.largestrvshow.com
Camping at Hershey RV Show
For those of you interesting in camping at the Hershey RV Show, here’s the scoop on what Hershey Entertainment has on offer. Dry camping and parking near the Giant Center will be available starting from Tuesday, September 10 until Monday, September 15 at 10 a.m. It’s $60 per night to park your RV there. If you have a car towed behind the RV, it’s an extra $10 per stay. Just pay at the gate when you arrive, as reservations are not accepted.
Keep in mind, this is dry camping—no water or septic hookups. They do have a honey wagon service available for a fee if you need it, but for water, you will want to find a potable water fill station near by. You can run generators during the day, quiet hours are from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m.
It’s a bit of a trek from the overnight parking area to the show, so walking isn’t really an option. They do offer a free shuttle between the dry camping area and the show.
When we attended the Hershey RV Show, we camped overnight at a nearby Harvest Hosts which worked out really well. Since day parking at the show is free, we were glad to save the $60/night dry camping fee.
If you prefer to stay at a campground, the closest one to the Hershey RV Show is Hersheypark Camping Resort located at 1200 Sweet Street Hummelstown, PA 17036.
RV Manufacturers at the Hershey RV Show
Hershey RV Show attendees can expect to see all types of RVs for sale by a wide range of manufacturers. For example,
Browse the list of RV Manufacturers at the 2025 Hershey RV Show.
Seminars at the Hershey RV Show
At the Hershey RV Show, it’s not just about checking out the latest RVs, you can also attend one of the many seminars offered throughout the event. From tips on RV maintenance to deeper dives into RV appliances and safety essentials, there’s a session for everyone. There’s even a session all about RVing to Alaska.
Check out the full schedule of Seminars at the Hershey RV Show.
RV Accessories and Gear Vendors
There will be one giant vendor building at the Hershey RV Show filled with booths selling essential RV gear and memberships. If you’re looking for an accessory for your RV, you’ll likely find it here. Vendors range from campground organizations and RV mattresses to gear you need to dump your RV tanks and everything in between.
Browse list of Vendors at the 2025 Hershey RV Show.
Tips for Attending the Show
Attending a large show like the Hershey RV Show can be overwhelming especially if it’s your first time. Here are some tips on how to make the most out of your time:
Wear comfortable shoes. This is a large show and there is a quite a bit of ground to cover if you intend to walk the entire show. If you’re not camping on site, consider bringing a second pair of shoes in case the weather changes. It could be warm and sunny one day and cold and rainy the next day.
Review the show layout. Take some time to look at the show layout so you can plan your day(s).
Take notes and photos. Attending such a large RV show can quickly result in information overload. Take notes and photos to help you remember after the show.
Bring a tape measure. There have been many times where we wanted to know the exact measurements of a space or item at the show. For example, if you want a composting toilet in the RV, having the exact measurements of the toilet or the space its going into will be very handy.
For more tips, head over to our RV Show Survival Guide.
South Korean steelmaker POSCO International has completed the European base for its global EV market strategy, building a drive motor core plant in Brzeg, Poland.
The facility, in which the company invested a total of 94.1 billion won, is 100,000 square meters in size and has started trial production before entering full-scale mass production in December. The plant has an annual production capacity of 1.2 million units, targeting growing demand for EVs in Europe.
The completion of the Polish plant establishes three production belts spanning Asia, North America and Europe. The company aims to achieve a 10% global market share by 2030.
South Korea automakers Hyundai and Kia are accelerating their local EVs production projects in Europe, which is expected to further increase demand for drive motor cores, POSCO noted.
POSCO plans to build a production system capable of producing 7.5 million units annually by 2030, including 2.5 million units in Pohang and Cheonan in South Korea, 3.5 million in Mexico, 1.2 million in Poland and 300,000 in India. This will support its Local to Local strategy of producing and supplying directly to customers for faster market response.
POSCO’s drive motor cores use its EMFree technology, which is applied to POSCO Group’s non-oriented electrical steel (Hyper NO). EMFree technology, which applies a small amount of adhesive and laminates layers, improves energy efficiency and minimizes noise and vibration compared to the existing EMBO method, which connects protrusions to bond the steel, according to the company. This technology simultaneously enhances EV driving range and quietness.
POSCO Group has linked the new drive motor core plant with its Polish steel processing centers in Europe to establish an integrated supply system for high-efficiency electrical steel-based drive motor cores and high-quality steel materials.
POSCO International has already secured orders for 35 million drive motor cores through 2033. The Polish plant will begin with the 1.68 million units planned for production in Europe by Hyundai and Kia Motors and will expand its supply base to European automakers such as Volkswagen.
“The Donggu Motor Core Poland plant is a key base for us to dominate the European EV market,” said POSCO International President Lee Kye-in. “POSCO Group will lead the future mobility market based on its integrated capabilities at the group level, including EV steel, battery materials, and parts.”
BMW is reinventing itself. The clumsy term “Neue Klasse” has finally taken shape, and the all-new iX3 is its first physical expression. Five more models will follow by 2027, with the underlying technology expected to flow into 40 future BMW vehicles. Ahead of the 2025 IAA, the Munich brand is calling this transition the biggest in its history. But first and foremost, the BMW iX3 is a brand-new car – and a very good one at that.
The true significance of a new model usually only becomes clear after several years. In this case, however, the impact is already obvious. The new iX3 isn’t just another SUV – it’s the car designed to redefine BMW itself. Production, development, design, user interface: nearly everything has been rethought. This shift towards an all-electric future will be led by six Neue Klasse models, starting with the iX3. “Neue Klasse is our most important future project,” explains BMW CEO Oliver Zipse. “It represents a giant leap in technology, driving experience and design. Practically everything about it is new – and yet it’s more BMW than ever. Our entire portfolio will benefit from the innovations of the Neue Klasse, regardless of powertrain.”
The previous iX3 was little more than a stopgap solution. Initially intended only for the Chinese market, it was quickly brought to Europe once it was clear the demand for EVs in the SUV segment was growing rapidly. However, it was based on a platform designed for combustion engines, came only with rear-wheel drive, and was limited to 180km/h – not exactly what BMW buyers were looking for. Unsurprisingly, it failed to resonate with the brand’s traditional customer base, who remained loyal to efficient diesel models.
The new iX3 changes everything. Measuring 4.78 metres in length, it has been developed from the ground up as a pure EV. It features fresh design language, streamlined development processes and a completely new architecture that will underpin at least five additional models. Launching as the iX3 xDrive50, it delivers 345kW (469bhp) and 675Nm of torque. More variants – both more and less powerful – will follow.
With a claimed consumption of just over 15kWh/100km and a battery capacity of 108.7kWh (featuring 20% higher energy density), the WLTP range can reach up to 800km. Thanks to its 800-volt electrical system, the iX3 can recharge 370km of range in just ten minutes at up to 400kW, rivalling combustion-engine refuelling times. Top speed is limited to 210km/h. Standard AC charging is 11kW, with a 22kW option available. Bidirectional charging allows for V2L (vehicle-to-load), V2H (vehicle-to-home) and even V2G (vehicle-to-grid) functionality.
Chassis, brakes, steering and driver assistance systems are all connected via four high-performance computers. However, level 3 autonomous capability won’t be available at launch. Instead, the iX3 will carry over the same systems currently seen in the BMW i5. Still, it excels in other areas: sustainability, for example. Built at BMW’s new Debrecen plant, the iX3 boasts a 34% reduction in lifecycle CO₂ emissions compared to its predecessor.
Inside, there’s ample space for five, but traditionalists may be shocked by the cockpit. The familiar BMW instrument cluster is gone, replaced by a slim display strip along the base of the windscreen, a central touchscreen and a head-up display. The longstanding three-spoke steering wheel has also been retired. In its place is a new, illuminated four-spoke design intended to guide drivers through BMW’s latest iDrive interface.
Boot space stands at 520 litres, expandable to 1,750 litres with the rear seats folded. A 58-litre front compartment is available for charging cables and small items. The base price for the BMW iX3 xDrive50 is expected to start at €68,900.
FOLD-DOWN MURPHY BEDS are a great way to optimize your RV’s interior space. Travel trailers with Murphy beds are often shorter and lighter than those without, yet they do not skimp on sleeping space. Many models on our top list have bunks with sleeping capacities of up to eight people. And all of this under 27 feet with SUV-towable options? Yes, please!
Key Takeaways
Murphy bed travel trailers maximize space and towability, offering shorter, lighter RVs—many under 27 feet and SUV-towable—without sacrificing sleeping capacity.
Top models stand out for smart layouts and storage solutions, such as rear kitchens, bunkhouses, outdoor kitchens, and thoughtful features like tankless water heaters, linen closets, and pet-friendly additions.
Variety spans multiple brands and floorplans, with options from Jayco, Forest River, Winnebago, Grand Design, Heartland, and others—plus tips on comfort upgrades like mattress quality, setup, and durability.
Top 10 Travel Trailers with Murphy Beds
We’ve selected our favorite travel trailers with Murphy beds from leading brands, including Jayco, Forest River, Grand Design, Winnebago, and Heartland. For comparisons, don’t miss the honorable mentions below.
Here are my top options for travel trailers with Murphy beds, tailored to my travel style. Keep in mind that your needs and mine might not be the same.
Jayco Jay Feather 19MRK
Images by Camping World
Specs
Length: 23’4”
Dry Weight: 4,820 pounds
Cargo Capacity: 1,580 pounds
Sleeping Capacity: Up to 2
A fantastic option for couples, the Jay Feather 19MRK is an impressive travel trailer with a Murphy bed. This rear kitchen floor plan makes excellent use of all 23 feet of space. My favorite feature in this Murphy bed camper is the kitchen. It combines storage with functionality and has expansive counterspace for prep work. It even includes a dual-basin sink, which I find handy for washing or prepping vegetables.
The bathroom is also larger than in other campers on this list. It features a full residential shower and a pocket door, maximizing the interior space. The theater seating includes desk trays over each seat, but this RV lacks a traditional table. Jayco could consider adding a portable Lagun table set up for this travel trailer in the future.
How I Ranked It
A Jayco at the top of my list? Gasp. You’re probably just as shocked as I am. Jayco is a functional RV brand, but it’s never been a top choice of mine, both stylistically and functionally. But this Murphy bed camper is impressive. From the rear kitchen design to the functional storage and features like a tankless water heater, Jayco is stepping up its game.
Dare I say it? This Forest River lover might just switch sides for the Jay Feather 19MRK.
Winnebago Thrive 22MBH
Images by Camping World
Specs
Length: 26’
Dry Weight: 5,882 pounds
Cargo Capacity: 1,178 pounds
Sleeping Capacity: Up to5
Comfortable, functional, and luxurious, the Thrive 22MBH is another top contender for the best travel trailer with a Murphy bed. The 42” x 86” U-shaped dinette is nestled in a large slide, which also features additional closet and overhead storage. The kitchen features an L-shaped counter with a flip-up extension, increasing the surface area. The rear features a bunkhouse for extra guests.
Winnebago also included large panoramic windows throughout, including one at the head of the Murphy bed.
How I Ranked It
You might say, “Hey! Other RVs on this list also have this floorplan. Why is this one ranked higher?” It’s the little features—like using some of the dead space for extra storage and interior finishes—that really make the Thrive 22MBH stand out. Winnebago’s Modern Luxe interior is light yet warm.
They also make minor adjustments, such as a slightly larger slide to accommodate a wardrobe and the pantry space located across from the kitchen. Making that corner usable storage might seem insignificant, but it adds enormous value, in my opinion.
Jayco Jay Feather 21MML
Image by Camping World
Specs
Length: 25’5”
Dry Weight: 5,225 pounds
Cargo Capacity: 1,275 pounds
Sleeping Capacity: Up to6
The Jay Feather 21MML is another great option for couples. One of the big differences in this camper is the extra kitchen space at the rear. You get countertops, overhead storage, the sink, and a large pantry, complemented by a three-burner cooktop, the refrigerator, and additional counterspace in the off-campside slide-out.
This travel trailer with Murphy beds is one of the larger RVs on this list, thanks to the additional interior space created when the slide is extended. The bathroom is spacious, featuring a built-in linen closet that enhances the intelligent design.
How I Ranked It
I won’t lie; the Jay Feather 21MML surprised me. I often don’t find that Jayco’s interior layouts fit my personal preferences. Their signature vintage farmhouse interior features millennial gray floors, which wouldn’t be my first choice. However, this travel trailer boasts a particularly nice design. The kitchen provides a fair amount of counterspace and storage, and the linen closet in the bathroom actually boosts this travel trailer up on the list.
Grand Design Transcend One 151RB
Image by Camping World
Specs
Length: 19’8”
Dry Weight: 3,600 pounds
Cargo Capacity: 820pounds
Sleeping Capacity: Up to 4
If you’re looking for a travel trailer under 20 feet with a Murphy bed, consider the Transcend One 151RB. This is the smallest and lightest camper on the list, but it still packs a punch. The rear bath makes great use of the space, with a sliding door that makes navigating the RV easier. Since the Transcend One doesn’t have a slide, space-saving adjustments like that make a big difference.
The kitchen is modest, but it does include a pull-out trash can — a feature that is often underutilized in the RV space. It also added a pull-out pet dish when the Murphy bed is folded! It’s that little something extra—or lagniappe, as a Louisianan might say—that makes the difference between good and great.
How I Ranked It
In the ultralight market, you’ll trade interior space and features for a lower dry weight and cargo capacity. Even with those trade-offs, this is a great Murphy bed travel trailer for a couple or a small family. This travel trailer is also incredibly affordable, making it accessible to many entry-level campers.
Forest River Campsite Ultra 21DF
Want to see the latest RVs? Subscribe to the Camping World YouTube channel, and never miss a video.
Specs
Length: 25’10”
Dry Weight: 5,688pounds
Cargo Capacity: 2,107pounds
Sleeping Capacity: Up to 7
King bed alert! The Campsite Ultra 21DF is the sole option in this list that includes a camp king Murphy bed. In the realm of Murphy bed campers, this is a pretty big boon. This is another bunkhouse travel trailer, but it has a few additions that set it apart.
The L-shaped kitchen improves the working surface, and the back side of the addition includes a shoe cubby and an additional storage cabinet. There is also an additional open cubby in the dinette slide for storing books, gear, or board games. The bathroom also includes a shallow tub for washing pets or toddlers.
How I Ranked It
The camp king bed is the real reason this RV is higher on the list. Otherwise, this is a pretty standard bunkhouse travel trailer with a Murphy bed. Its finishes are nice, but not luxe. But Forest River always knows how to add small storage solutions to give its RVs a slight edge.
Grand Design Transcend One 161BH
Want to see the latest RVs? Subscribe to the Camping World YouTube channel, and never miss a video.
Specs
Length: 23’
Dry Weight: 4,784pounds
Cargo Capacity: 716 pounds
Sleeping Capacity: Up to6
Don’t want to empty your graywater tank for a while? The Transcend One 161BH has got you covered with an impressive 74-gallon gray water holding tank. Cavernous holding tank aside, the Transcend One 161BH continues the trend of solidly-built Murphy bed bunkhouse travel trailers.
The front’s unobstructed pass through storage provides space for large items, such as skis. In the rear, this Murphy bed RV also features a large 16” x 20” baggage door for additional storage.
It also boasts a robust outdoor kitchen with a mini fridge, a large griddle cooktop, and a portable interior/exterior table.
How I Ranked It
While I prefer the finishes of Forest River’s comparable RV, the improved privacy door on the bathroom gives Grand Design the slight edge. However, it sleeps only six people, so keep that in mind.
Jayco Jay Feather Air 19MBS
Image by Camping World
Specs
Length: 23’1”
Dry Weight: 4,505 pounds
Cargo Capacity: 1,245 pounds
Sleeping Capacity: Up to8
Similar to the Jay Flight SLX that rounds out this list, the Jay Feather Air 19MBS is a bunkhouse camper that embodies all the hallmarks of a functional, compact Murphy bed travel trailer under 25 feet. This RV comfortably sleeps up to eight people.
Since the floor plan is similar to other bunkhouses, let’s explore some of its other benefits. It includes an outdoor kitchen with a griddle, which is great for frying up boudin or bratwurst. The outdoor kitchen also includes a refrigerator to keep drinks within reach of your camp chairs.
How I Ranked It
Smaller and lighter, you might think this travel trailer would be less robust than the Jay Flight SLX with a similar layout. But in my opinion, this RV is more functional. I prefer the kitchen setup with the in-counter stovetop with a glass cover. It’s still affordable, but it works slightly better than some of my lower-ranked models.
Forest River Salem FSX 178BHSK
Want to see the latest RVs? Subscribe to the Camping World YouTube channel, and never miss a video.
Specs
Length: 22’11”
Dry Weight: 4,194 pounds
Cargo Capacity: 1,451 pounds
Sleeping Capacity: Up to8
A great bunkhouse RV for sleeping large crews, the Salem FSX 178BHSK has all the hallmarks of a well-designed Forest River (we’ll discuss the minor exception in the “How I Ranked It” section). The Murphy bed is tucked into a cozy alcove with overhead lighting for reading.
The kitchen includes ample storage, and the bunkhouse has rounded mattresses that extend beyond the corner to better accommodate additional guests. For a lightweight Murphy bed camper, this is a great option under 25 feet.
How I Ranked It
The Salem FSX and Transcend One 161BH are pretty similar, but I feel like this one falls short in the small details. The big kicker for me is the bathroom door. Where Grand Design included a more traditionally framed door, Forest River’s door has large gaps at the top and bottom. This leaves some room for improvement when it comes to privacy.
Jayco Jay Flight SLX 197MBW
Images by Camping World
Specs
Length: 23’7”
Dry Weight: 3,940 pounds
Cargo Capacity: 1,055 pounds
Sleeping Capacity: Up to 7
Lightweight and minimalist, the Jay Flight SLX 197MBW is a great compact travel trailer with a Murphy bed for people who need to sleep a crew. This bunkhouse camper, featuring a convertible dinette, can comfortably sleep up to seven people.
The Jay Flight SLX is also an incredibly affordable travel trailer, making it an excellent choice for first-time buyers. If possible, opt for the upgraded roof-mounted A/C instead of the side-mounted unit, as this will improve air circulation throughout the camper.
Heartland Prowler 1802MBSW
Image by Heartland RV
Specs
Length: 23’7”
Dry Weight: 4,995 pounds
Cargo Capacity: 950 pounds
Sleeping Capacity: Up to6
Rounding out our list, I’ve placed the Prowler 1802MBSW after that Jayco Murphy bed camper because it sleeps one less and has a more limited cargo capacity, even though I like the finishes a little better.
Since this follows the same floor plan, let’s discuss some of the specifications. You’ll have 30 gallons of fresh water in this RV, equipped with a tankless water heater. It also includes C-Pap prep on both sides of the bedroom for any needed medical equipment.
How I Ranked Them (197MBW + 1802MBSW)
There are no bad RVs on this list, but these final two are my least favorite for a few reasons. Both require an upgrade for a roof-mounted AC, and both could benefit from upgraded interior finishes.
Even small things, such as adding a backsplash, including a pop up countertop extension, and swapping the cooktop for a recessed model, go a long way toward improving the value of the Prowler and the Jay Flight SLX.
Honorable Mentions by Manufacturer
Didn’t find what you were looking for? There are plenty of other travel trailers with Murphy beds to browse and find your perfect RV.
Forest River
Let’s highlight some of the best Forest River travel trailers with Murphy beds from brands like Rockwood and Wildwood FSX.
Jayco
With intriguing layouts in their Jay Feather, Jay Flight SLX, and Jay Feather Air lineups, enjoy these affordable Jayco travel trailers with Murphy beds.
Grand Design
Across their Transcend ONE and Imagine (AIM + XLS) lineups, check out these additional Grand Design Murphy bed campers:
Keystone
Our choices for the best Keystone travel trailers with Murphy Beds include leading floorplans in the Passport Classic, Hideout Sport, and Reign lineups.
East to West
Here are a few other East to West travel trailers with Murphy beds to consider.
How To Make an RV Murphy Bed More Comfortable
You can make an RV Murphy bed more comfortable by adding a high-quality memory foam mattress topper or replacing the mattress with one designed for RVs. Consider using a mattress pad for added softness, and ensure the bedding is breathable and fitted.
How Much Weight Can a Murphy Bed Handle?
The weight capacity of a Murphy bed typically ranges from 500 to 1,000 pounds, depending on the model and installation. It’s essential to check the manufacturer’s specifications for the exact weight limit and ensure the bed is securely mounted to handle the intended load safely.
What Are The Disadvantages of a Murphy Bed?
Murphy beds can be less comfortable than traditional beds, especially if the mattress is thin or of low quality. While setup and breakdown are easy, they can also be a bit tedious. The bed’s hardware is also more likely to require repairs over time than a standard RV bed.
Travel trailers with Murphy beds provide great space-saving options without sacrificing comfort. But there are many other layouts for you to explore! Check out some of these alternative floor plans to find your perfect RV.
Do you have a favorite Murphy bed travel trailer or recommendations for traveling in one? We want to know! Drop your questions or comments below.
A Louisiana native turned Arizona desert dweller, Claire and her husband are on a mission to visit as many national, state, and tribal parks as possible. You can find her out on the Phoenix trails for day hikes or on the road in a campervan. Catch her adventures, trail tips, and National Park recommendations on Instagram at @clooseontheloose.
Every car maker has a slogan, but few are as enduring as Audi’s Vorsprung durch Technik. First coined more than 50 years ago, it has become far more than just a catchy marketing line – it’s the philosophy that has driven every model, idea and innovation from the Four Rings ever since.
To learn more about just how intrinsic those three words are to Audi’s DNA, we’ve been on a year of Vorsprung durch Technik exploration. Back in February, we travelled to Audi’s headquarters in Ingolstadt to speak with some of the brand’s top designers and engineers to find out what Audi’s iconic mantra means to them on a more personal level.
Last month, we drove the new Audi A6 Avant e-tron more than 600 miles from London to the Scottish Highlands to discover how its advancements in performance, in-car tech and aerodynamics have been influenced by Audi’s relentless pursuit of progress (which you’ll soon be able to read about here.)
And back in May, we invited 40 lucky Autocar readers to a VIP event in the heart of Nottinghamshire for an immersive day of pure Audi indulgence: Vorsprung durch Technik Live. Hosted by experts from Audi and Autocar’s own journalists, the day gave readers the opportunity to experience the past, present and future of Audi like never before. Watch the video below to see how the day unfolded.
A journey through Audi history
The day was split into four immersive sessions, each giving guests a new perspective on Audi’s rich story.
Things began with a deep dive into the brand’s entire 126-year history and the origins of Vorsprung durch Technik. The session explored how this unique philosophy has guided the German marque’s innovations throughout the years, from the birth of the world-beating quattro system and rapid advancements in aerodynamic design, to next-generation headlight technology and Audi’s new range of all-electric e-tron models.
Hands-on with Audi legends
Next, guests were given the rare opportunity to get up close and personal with some of Audi’s most legendary models, including the NSU Ro80 – the car that kickstarted the Vorsprung durch Technik era – the original 1980 quattro, the RS2, the A2, the first-gen TT, the R8 and Audi’s first all-electric car, the e-tron.
Each car brought unique innovations and helped shape Audi’s reputation for progress. One reader said: “It’s amazing how you can go all the way from rotary to five-pot to electric and still keep a lineage. Always innovating and keeping true to themselves – I think that’s quite cool.”
As you plan the itinerary for your summer road trip, remember to put BMW maintenance on your to-do list. There are a few items you can check off on your own, and some you’ll need the assistance of our specially trained technicians to handle. Here are a few tips to get your vehicle ready for your vacation from the friendly professionals at Fields BMW Northfield.
What You Can Do to Prepare Your Vehicle
One of the most important ways to prepare your luxury model for a nice, long drive is to clean it inside and out. Starting your road trip with a clean vehicle not only adds to your enjoyment of the drive, but it also helps protect your vehicle from wear and tear.
Throw away any garbage that’s inside your cabin and vacuum the seats to make sure no dirt or debris can damage the upholstery. Then, wash your vehicle to clean off the grime that could cause scratches or rust, and consider a protective coat of wax.
Finally, give your car or SUV a once-over. Make sure your windshield wiper fluid is full and check to make sure your headlights, taillights, and interior systems like air conditioning, navigation, and infotainment systems are functioning properly.
What to Leave to Our BMW Service Professionals
There are a few things that are best left to our BMW maintenance professionals, such as:
Oil change
Tire rotation and balancing
Brake inspection
Battery check
We’ll perform a thorough inspection and make any necessary repairs so you’ll have peace of mind throughout your vacation.
Schedule a BMW Maintenance Appointment in Northfield, IL
We know you can’t wait to hit the road for your summer road trip, and we’re here to make sure your vehicle is ready to go. After you wash your car, make sure to get your BMW checked out by our maintenance experts. Schedule an appointment with our Northfield, IL BMW dealership today!
Back in 1998, TVR was dreaming. They wanted to create a faster and more outrageous supercar than the mighty McLaren F1. While they didn’t succeed with the former, TVR definitely created a beast, one that looked like it wanted to eat Mini Coopers for brunch.
When it was made, the Speed 12 was a departure from TVR’s usual ways. It didn’t share much with any existing models, and certainly didn’t look like them either.
This car gots its name and from a concept engine which was so looney, TVR will never try it again. They decided to mate two of their potent Speed Six engines to a common crank and modify the each to full race specification. The resulting 7.7 liter, 1000+ bhp V12 was so powerful, it broke TVR’s dyno. This immense power, and the expensive costs to utilize it, was the main reason why only very few cars were built. As little as five engines were created!
The original intention of the Speed 12 was to contest the GT1 class of FIA GT motor sport and go to LeMans. Unfortunately, before the Speed 12 was sufficiently developed to win races, the regulations changed and made the few race cars obsolete. Instead, they contested the British GT championship with a huge rectrictors that limited power to around 700 bhp. Despite this, the drivers had still had trouble keeping power to track and any unrestricted car would have been even worse.
In 2000, TVR was determined to keep the project going and launched a road-going version called the Cerbera Speed 12. A single example was shown for the British Motor Show that year, built from the racing cars but with with an unrestricted engine and huge Goodyear Fioranos. Orders were taken for a 160,000 GBP, ”McLaren-beating supercar” that was going to be TVRs most expensive to date. Peter Wheeler who owned TVR at the time, took the prototype for a drive hime and he ”concluded that the car was unusable on the road”- all orders were cancelled.
Composite materials are, by far, the most interesting of all such options in watchmaking. We classify them with all other exotic materials, including sapphire crystal, because there are very few of these types of watch cases, once one separates bimetallic ones.
On the other hand, watches that combine metals, polymers and ceramics do count as properly exotic, such as the Ulysse Nardin Diver (Air). As you can tell, we are using our editorial prerogatives to define exotic and, since the word is redolent of bias and opinion, why not!
In our original story about composites two years ago, we used an AI-derived definition for composites. Here is one from a commercial producer of composites: “A composite material is a combination of two materials with different physical and chemical properties.
When they are combined, they create a material which is specialised to do a certain job, for instance, to become stronger, lighter, or resistant to electricity. They can also improve strength and stiffness.
The reason for their use over traditional materials is that they improve the properties of their base materials and are applicable in many situations.” (Source: TWI Global).
No specific strength, toughness, or any other characteristic works for all composites. A strange myth abounds, though, that composites might not be suitable for water-resistance, but this message did not reach Casio nor the various shipbuilders who deploy carbon fibre and other such materials in their hulls. The bottom line on material properties when it comes to composites is that each material has to be judged on its own merits.
Having made all these points and caveats, a watch like the Hublot Big Bang Meca-10 Concrete Jungle proves our point that the excitement in watch cases comes from. We are particularly enamoured with this watch because we discussed concrete in our composite special. While Hublot has been plying its concrete craft since 2016, concrete has been making its mark on human civilisation for hundreds of years.
For reference, here is what we wrote in 2023: By many accounts, and no shortage of hard evidence, the Romans were extraordinarily successful with concrete. They were not the first to get to this material, but their particular recipe is widely recognised as being closest in terms of properties to what we use today. This extends to the use of the material to build jetties and other partially submerged structures – the Romans were the first to use a type of concrete (opus caementicium) that can set underwater, which is a property we take for granted today.
Some of the ruins are still with us today, and structures such as the Pantheon in Rome continue to be public buildings in the 21st century, alongside other major tourist attractions such as the Colosseum. We should note here that concrete also demonstrates that composite materials sometimes appear in nature as well, because barnacles secrete a sort of organic concrete to bind themselves to substrates.
Of course, metals will also remain an attractive option in the exotic department. We refer here to metals such as tantalum, which grace parts of the case of the new F.P. Journe Chronomètre Furtif, and aluminium, which forms the entire case of the Franck Muller Vanguard Royal Bauxite. Aluminium has also been embraced by brands such as Bvlgari for many years, so it is hardly completely novel. We expect brands to continue these efforts, perhaps experimenting with something bold, now and again.
This story was first seen as part of the WOW #79 Summer 2025 Issue
For more on the latest in luxury watch reads, click here.
