Leisure Travel Vans
Regardless of the chassis, the Unity and Wonder accommodate the Murphy Bed Lounge floorplan. Seen here is the Unity.
Words by Steve Fennell
With the introduction of Leisure Travel Vans (LTV) ‘next-generation Murphy Bed Lounge floorplan’ for its 2023 Unity and Wonder Class B-plus models, the options in these lines are now even more impressive. Designed for a range of RVers - from those looking to downsize to enthusiasts who enjoy extended trips, the Unity and Wonder evolve every year to continually meet a variety of travel trends.
Even though the Unity rides on a Sprinter chassis and the Wonder is built on the Ford Transit, the new flagship Murphy Bed Lounge (MBL) floorplan accommodates each model to perfection. The final decision may come down to chassis performance, brand preference and price.
With either choice, however, the Unity and Wonder MBL models have a lot of similar design features. The specifications of the Sprinter and Ford Transit chassis’ haven’t changed so the goal for the designers at LTV was to make more use of available space on these models, without any compromises.
Leisure Travel Vans
Both models also have a slide - a new feature on the Wonder - that houses the Murphy Bed and Leisure Lounge System. The bed can even be used during travel.
“Our Murphy Bed option is very popular,” says Angelo Natuzzi, lead product designer for LTV and Triple E. “Our concept this year was to have a more contemporary product available with the same floorplan and provide more room in terms of storage and living space for better RV experiences.”
As a result, there are several new modifications. Some may be apparent during a first walk-through, others not so much. Nevertheless, all are practical and efficient.
The effective use of space is evident in a few areas of the Unity and Wonder. For instance, the residential-size shower/dry bath in the rear has ample room for three large drawers in addition to a hanging closet with removable and adjustable shelves. A closer look will reveal another large concealed drawer so you can bring along more essentials. Other nice appointments are the stainless sink, large skylight and optimal lighting. It also offers privacy with its sliding door.
Leisure Travel Vans
Both models also have a slide - a new feature on the Wonder - that houses the Murphy Bed and Leisure Lounge System. The bed can even be used during travel.
Just off the bath is the galley that is now more streamlined (rather than its L-shape in previous models) and comes with additional counter space, designated areas for a coffee maker, as well as an integrated dish strainer, a garbage basket and pull-out pantry. At the time of publication, other galley standards were being considered for production models.
Just forward in the living area is the plush Leisure Lounge© system with power recliners featuring improved head support and extended, retracting footrests. Similar to previous floorplans, the loungers quickly convert into a full queen-plus size bed. In either configuration, there’s unobstructed viewing for the available flatscreen TV along with a side table for added convenience.
Leisure Travel Vans
Being class B-plus models, they can easily access more remote destinations.
To better accommodate the Leisure Lounge System and Murphy Bed, both models have a slide, which is a new appointment for the Wonder, on the driver’s side. An interesting design, the bed can be retracted with the slide in or out, providing added function during travel. Heating/cooling systems are also included and are controlled by the Firefly Multiplex Control System, which could be considered the heart of the models’ functions.
It consists of an 18 cm (7 in) touch screen and monitors most - if not all – systems including the battery and tank levels, lighting, interior climate, and water pump. If you prefer to change settings in different areas of the vehicle, optional add-on panels are available or they can be set from a smart device with the available app.
With a number of appointments, rounding out the living space is the available light that further complements the interior.
Leisure Travel Vans
The exterior of the Wonder.
“Another aspect of the floorplan we addressed is providing more natural light and lighting systems,” explains Natuzzi. “We made a lot of effort to include a large daytime window plus a skylight overhead in the bath and forward in the living area, which maximizes the brightness.”
When night falls - or on cloudy days - Natuzzi explained that modern LED ceiling light panels were implemented to provide further illumination (that can be adjusted from soft to very bright) and a clean, modern atmosphere. Combined with several light-toned cabinetry, Ultraleather upholstery, and flooring options, the Unity and Wonder can have a warm, comfortable and inviting space anytime.
There are a lot of advantages of the new Unity and Wonder MBL models. While they run on proven chassis’ to access many destinations and offer reasonable fuel economy, it’s the design features, innovative appointments and ample storage that will provide extra-comfortable times on the road.
For more information about the Murphy Bed Lounge floorplan and details about other Unity and Wonder models visit www.leisurevans.com.