Many changes Rialta for 2003

The 2003 Rialta from Winnebago Industries seems to get better each year. After introducing a 44 percent increase in horsepower in 2002, the Rialta offers more standard features in 2003, including a 2,800-watt Onan Microlite generator and new AM/FM stereo with CD player. The 2003 Rialta also features the available DuPont Imron Flexshield base coat/clear coat finish to make the already unique Class C motor home even more attractive.

Built on a 7,275-lb. gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) Volkswagen chassis, the Rialta boasts a powerful 2.8L V6 – 24 valve engine with 201 hp. The beefy engine plus standard trailer hitch gives the Rialta 2,000-lb. of towing capacity.

With its compact 22-foot size, the Rialta features a tight turning radius that more closely resembles a car than a motor home. Its 16-inch low profile tires allow for easy cornering, while the four-wheel disc brakes, rear air springs, fully independent front suspension and four-speed automatic transmission provide great handling and make the Rialta highly maneuverable. The2003 Rialta also features outstanding fuel economy. Recent tests reflect an average of 20.9 miles per gallon.

The Rialta’s exterior is truly striking in 2003 with a Dupont Imron Flexshield base coat/clear coat finish, that provides a low maintenance, high gloss automotive finish with maximum durability and the highest chip resistance available. \The eye-catching graphics and optional stylized aluminum wheels also enhance the exterior of the Rialta. Other features include an automotive-style rear wiper/washer, flush mount porch light, low-mount, electric exterior mirrors with remote and defrost features, a spacious rear storage compartment and an exterior wash station.

While the exterior is striking, the interior is also alluring. The driver and passenger will appreciate the comfort in the cab area, especially the seats that feature lumbar support, adjustable armrests and multi-adjustable recline and swivel/slide features. The cab seats are also available in leather. The dash is designed so controls are within easy reach and also easy to read thanks to analog instrumentation. New for 2003, the cab area features a standard AM/FM Sony stereo with CD player with larger knobs for easier use and a wireless remote (a deluxe sound system is also available). Other features in the cab area include an innovative folding ignition key with remote, dual air bags, three-point seatbelts, power locks and windows, and cruise control.

The 2003 Rialta features three floorplans, the 22HD, 22QD and 22FD. Each features a fully equipped galley, bathroom, dining/sleeping areas and a large, translucent skylight to provide plenty of natural light. Two interior color choices, Gray Slate and Laurel Mist (sage green), provide a home-like feel to the Rialta, while the Washed Maple cabinets on the 22HD and 22FD floorplans and the European style cabinetry on the 22QD, complete the look. Leather is also available.

The 22HD features a rear dinette with pull-up table that easily converts into a 50" x 79" sleeping area, while the galley offers greater cooking flexibility with a microwave, stainless steel sink, three-burner range top, available oven and large Norcoldrefrigerator/freezer. A lounge chair with fold-up table and magazine rack is found behind the passenger seat.

The 22QD floorplan is similar to the 22HD with the exception of the galley, which is near the door instead of behind the driver’s seat. Two companion seats, found directly behind the cab area, easily recline to create additional sleeping space, just like the rear dinette. The 22QD also offers a standard 9-inch color TV with remote and video cassette player.

The 22FD features a double-sized Serta® mattress (twin Serta mattresses are optional), a spacious wardrobe and shirt closet, vanity with drawers, and a fully equipped kitchen including a recessed two-burner range, Norcold refrigerator, microwave and sink. When you want to take a break from cooking, relax in the lounge chair with fold-up table and magazine rack that are across from the galley.

One of the Rialta’s most innovative features is the bathroom design that is unique in the RV industry. The bathroom is constructed with telescoping walls so it takes up next to no space and tucks into the walls when not in use. While providing ample room, the innovative bathroom incorporates a residential-height toilet, fold-down sink, mirrored medicine cabinet and two towel bars.

Relaxing even on hot days is not a problem with the 7,100 BTU roof mounted air conditioner (an upgrade to a 9,100 BTU air conditioner is also available). Thanks to the Rialta’s dual automotive air conditioning system in the cockpit and cabin, you’ll stay cool and comfortable when you’re on the move too. On those cool nights, the 2003 Rialta features a heat strip option to the air conditioner to help distribute warm air throughout the entire motor home. The heat strip option, combined with a 17,000 BTU furnace on the 22FD and a 19,000 BTU furnace on the 22QD and 22HD, will keep you warm wherever you travel.

The 2003 Rialta also features a water heater with motoraid feature for instant hot water while traveling, rear auto heater, water heater winterization by-pass valve, two deep cycle batteries and a standard 2,800-watt Onan Microlite generator.

Winnebago Industries offers a comprehensive two-year/24,000-mile basic warranty with no deductible on the 2003 Rialta, with the warranty completely transferable for both Winnebago Industries and Volkswagen. Volkswagen also administers a five-year/50,000-mile drive train warranty on the Rialta. Every new owner also automatically receives a free one-year membership in Winnebago Industries’ premium Roadside Assistance Program, offering 24-hour customer assistance and emergency service in addition to jump starting engines, fuel delivery, lockout and tire changing services.

Copyright 2004 by Out West Newspaper

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