When a team like Jayco shows the world its machines, it typically pays to check out what's in store. After all, this crew is known the world over and is clearly worthy of attention. As for today's topic, their Class B Terrain is under the spotlight.
While most of us know Jayco for their capable and affordable travel trailers, they also crank out a number of camper van designs, the 2024 Terrain being one of them. Oh, and just to give you an idea of what we're up against here, Jayco's website doesn't even mention how much this RV costs. But, my exploration into this unit has found them selling for around $140K, depending on features in place, of course, so let's dive deeper to see if it's the right habitat for you.
Now, Jayco's the sort of team that needs no introduction, and with that, allow me to point out that the base vehicle for the Terrain is the tried and tested 144 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 with AWD and a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with a peak of 211 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque. Oh, it has a 9-speed automatic transmission, too, so you shouldn't have any trouble finding the right gear, loaded up to a GCWR of 13,930 lbs (6,319 kg) or not. All the features known to be offered by Mercedes are also in place, so have no fear of crosswinds, starting on a hill, or even breaking down.
Photo: Jayco Inc
While all that is essential, it's not the main reason why I chose to bring the Terrain to life; if you've had a chance to check out the image gallery, then you might have some idea. Ok, fine, I'll stop holding out: it's the interior of this RV that blew me away most. Why?
Feature number one on the list is the rear of the Terrain. For this unit, Jayco decided to add a power lift bed suitable for two people, and I find that this is the true hot-ticket item for this unit because it allows future owners to use this space however they wish.
Let's say you're taking a three-day e-bike trip into the mountains. While in transit, this space can be loaded up with your precious toys and any gear you may own while your bedroom waits for you to unload said goods. Smaller items can be left alone, as the bed rests on a couple of side constructions, creating a smaller cargo area in the process.
Photo: Jayco Inc
Better yet, grab a bike rack or cargo trailer and throw in some kayaks, fishing rods, tent annexes, shovels, and pickaxes for preparing dirt tracks, you name it. Honestly, there's no limit to what you can do with this sort of feature, and that's what Jayco seems to be banking on: full modularity.
But that's not all this unit is about, and once we head toward the front of the Terrain, we'll encounter a large wet bath along the port side of the unit, followed by a dinette with a removable table and seating for two guests, and along the right side of the Terrain, Jayco adds a clean-cut and modern galley block. The rest of the cabinetry is completed in the same fashion, and frankly, it looks pretty darned good; it's a no-frills kind of unit.
That, however, does not mean that the Terrain's walls and bodywork don't hide system after system designed to keep you moving through all four seasons without relying on the grid for power. This includes basics like heated tanks and winterized drains, but the real takeaway is the beefy electrical setup. You have your choice of Renogy or Lithionics power setup with up to 210 Ah of battery power, a 48V alternator dedicated to the battery, and 200 W of solar panel, all as standard.
Photo: Jayco Inc
Throw on a JRide suspension with Koni shocks and a heavy-duty stabilizer bar, AT KO2 tires, a double roof rack, and Starlink internet, and you're good to go. Let's not forget the awning, movable ladder, and outdoor dining table. Once you're done, we're looking at a year-round adventuring machine ready to meet the needs of countless living styles and goals.
As for the rest of our time together, take a moment out of your busy day and daydream a little. See yourself out in the wild with your significant other; maybe you're traveling alone. Imagine what your mornings may be like in the middle of nowhere with nothing but the sounds of the local wildlife to occupy your brain and what sort of late nights under starry skies you may experience. Heck, turn on all those outdoor LEDs, set up a tent, and have a rest outdoors for one night.
But, it won't matter how much you dream about a life lived out of a Terrain, or any other RV for that matter; until you start taking action, no dream will become a reality. It's time to phone up some local dealership, see the beast in the flesh, press the buttons, knock on wood or composites, and, at the end of it all, sign the paperwork. Just a little something-something to think about.
