The Tiffin Open Trail RV stands out as a groundbreaking Class C adventure vehicle, blending the nimble efficiency of a camper van with the spacious capacity of a traditional coach, all powered by a robust Mercedes-Benz AWD chassis designed for off-road prowess. Launched for the 2026 model year, this 25-foot-6-inch rig from the renowned Tiffin Motorhomes lineup redefines versatility for solo travelers, couples, or small families seeking to conquer rugged trails without sacrificing comfort or connectivity. Built in partnership with Owl Vans, the Open Trail combines premium craftsmanship with innovative features, earning a spot in RVBusiness’s 2026 RV of the Year finalists for its seamless fusion of adventure-ready design and luxury.
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Overview of the Tiffin Open Trail RV
At its core, the Tiffin Open Trail is engineered for those who crave the freedom of unpaved paths and remote boondocking sites. Measuring 25 feet 6 inches in length, 84 inches wide, and boasting an interior height of 80 inches, it strikes an ideal balance between maneuverability and livable space—perfect for navigating tight forest service roads or urban parking lots alike. Its Mercedes-Benz 3500XD Dual Rear Wheel Cutaway AWD chassis ensures superior traction and stability, enhanced by the standard SumoSprings Ride Assist System, which absorbs shocks for a smoother ride over uneven terrain. With a GVWR of 11,030 pounds and a hitch rating of 5,000 pounds, it’s capable of towing a small trailer or gear hauler, expanding its utility for multi-vehicle expeditions.
Powered by a Mercedes-Benz 2.0-liter I4 Turbo Diesel High Output engine delivering 208 horsepower and paired with a 9G-Tronic automatic transmission, the Open Trail offers efficient diesel performance with real-world highway fuel economy of 18–20 MPG depending on load and conditions. Fuel capacity is 24.5 gallons, providing an estimated range of 440–490 miles per tank. For off-grid reliability, it includes a 3.2-kW RVMP diesel generator that draws directly from the main fuel tank.
Pricing starts at approximately $220,000 for a well-equipped base model, with fully optioned units approaching $250,000—positioning it firmly in the premium tier of the AWD Sprinter segment. Standard warranties include a 2-year/24,000-mile limited coach warranty, a 5-year/100,000-mile chassis powertrain warranty, and 3-year/36,000-mile Mercedes-Benz roadside assistance.
Floorplans and Interior Layout
The Tiffin Open Trail is currently offered in a single, highly adaptable floorplan: the 25 AO. This layout sleeps up to three comfortably and features rear twin beds that convert to a full king-size bed, a forward sleeper sofa, and a U-shaped dinette that doubles as a workspace. A 32-inch LED smart TV is mounted on the cab-over bulkhead.
The galley includes a 10.5-cubic-foot 12V refrigerator/freezer, two-burner LP cooktop, convection microwave, and stainless-steel sink. The full wet bath features a large skylight, cassette toilet, and ample storage. Optional upgrades include Truma Combi Eco heating and Alde hydronic radiant floor heating for true four-season capability.
Interior décor is “Boho Chic” as standard, with multiple cabinetry, countertop, and flooring options available. Storage totals 90 cubic feet, including a heated rear gear garage large enough for bikes, kayaks, or muddy boots.
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Exterior and Off-Road Capabilities
The Open Trail’s exterior features a premium full-body paint system in Cement Grey (standard) or optional graphics packages. It rides on 17-inch all-terrain tires with blacked-out wheels and includes a 10-foot power awning, outdoor kitchen prep station, and roof rack rated for 200 pounds. The vehicle is pre-wired for Starlink Mini and offers an optional 200-watt solar package.
Standard safety and driver-assist features include active brake assist, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and crosswind stabilization.
Performance and Fuel Efficiency
The combination of Mercedes-Benz AWD, 369 lb-ft of torque, and SumoSprings suspension delivers confident handling on everything from interstate highways to washboard forest roads. Real-world fuel economy ranges from 15–18 MPG in mixed driving, with the diesel generator providing 30+ hours of runtime at moderate loads.
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Pros and Cons
Pros
- Outstanding off-road capability and stability
- Luxurious, residential-style interior
- Excellent build quality and warranty coverage
- Strong off-grid power and connectivity options
Cons
- Only one floorplan currently available
- Premium price point
- Diesel generator is quieter than gas but still audible in absolute silence
Overall rating: 4.8/5 – one of the finest AWD Sprinter-based Class C rigs on the market.
Comparison: Tiffin Open Trail vs. Winnebago Ekko, Dynamax Oberon, and Entegra Condor
All four models compete directly in the compact AWD Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Class C segment. Here’s an accurate side-by-side comparison (2025–2026 model year specs):
Feature | Tiffin Open Trail 25 AO | Winnebago Ekko 23B | Dynamax Oberon 24TBMA | Entegra Condor 23S |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Length | 25 ft 6 in | 23 ft 6 in | 24 ft 10 in | 25 ft 2 in |
Chassis / Drivetrain | MB 3500XD AWD DRW | MB Sprinter AWD | MB 3500 AWD | MB 3500 AWD |
Engine | 2.0L HO Diesel 208 hp | 2.0L Diesel 211 hp | 2.0L Diesel 208 hp | 2.0L Twin-Turbo 211 hp |
GVWR | 11,030 lbs | 11,030 lbs | 11,030 lbs | 11,030 lbs |
Fuel Capacity | 24.5 gal | 24.5 gal | 24.5 gal | 24.5 gal |
Fresh / Gray / Black | ~40 / 30 / 20 gal | 46 / 38 / 39 gal | 34 / 34 / 34 gal | 34 / 27 / 27 gal |
Sleeps | 3 | 3 (4 w/ pop-top) | 4 | 3–4 |
Lithium Battery (std) | 270 Ah | 320 Ah (optional) | 600 Ah | 200 Ah |
Solar (std / max) | Optional 200 W | 455 W | 500+ W | 200 W |
Generator | 3.2 kW Diesel | 3.6 kW LP | Optional 3.2 kW Diesel | 3.6 kW LP |
Starting MSRP (approx.) | $220,000 | $251,000 | $210,000 | $195,000 |
Quick Takeaways
- Best pure off-road stability → Tiffin Open Trail (DRW + SumoSprings)
- Best winter/off-grid power → Dynamax Oberon (600 Ah lithium + Truma diesel heat standard)
- Most versatile layout → Winnebago Ekko (pop-top option + huge garage)
- Best value & warranty → Entegra Condor (lowest price + 2-year coach warranty)
No matter which one you choose, the Tiffin Open Trail, Winnebago Ekko, Dynamax Oberon, and Entegra Condor represent the absolute pinnacle of compact, go-anywhere AWD adventure RVs in 2026.
Happy trails!
