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Newmar American Star FW 30 BKCL  (33-6)  By Craig Ritchie

Although perhaps better known these days for their luxurious Class A motorhomes, Newmar Corporation remains one of the RV industry's first and largest fifth wheel manufacturers. Since the introduction of its Kountry Aire fifth wheel in the early 1970s, Newmar has continually refined its product to reflect consumer demands and hard-gained experience on the road. The fruit of this experience is clearly evident in the American Star series of fifth wheels, encompassing no less than 12 floor plans ranging from 29 to 35 feet. One of the most popular models in the series is the single-slide, 31-foot, model 30 BKCL. What makes the 30 such a winner is its straightforward, rear kitchen layout and attention to detail throughout. This attractive RV is built to last on aluminum-framed Filon fibreglass exterior sides, with gelcoated fibreglass end caps and a long-wearing, seamless aluminum roof. Generous amounts of exterior storage space handle all of the toys one might wish to bring along. With its insulated, enclosed underbelly and R7 fibreglass insulation in the sidewalls, floor and roof, the American Star is well suited for multi-season use – particularly so if you choose the optional 19-foot curbside awning. Triple entrance steps facilitate entry, leading you into a foyer area with the main living room immediately to your left and a handsome entertainment center, with room for a large television, situated to the right. A comfortable fabric sofa shares the street-side, flush-floor slideout with a booth-style dinette (a freestanding dinette with four comfortable chairs is available optionally). Four large windows let in plenty of natural light, and an overhead fixture in the slideout illuminates the entire area evenly after dark. The living area slideout is trimmed with a pleasant oak and fabric fascia that nicely accents the tasteful decor scheme. An optional recliner neatly fits opposite the sofa and adjacent to the entry. The living area is fully carpeted, while the kitchen, foyer and bathroom floors wear an attractive and hard-wearing vinyl. The L-shaped rear kitchen is a study in tasteful efficiency. Beautifully finished oak raised-panel cabinetry with brass hardware fits seamlessly with the living room trim. Kitchen appliances include a three-burner range with bi-fold cover, oven with piezzo ignition, a 22-inch microwave neatly integrated into the range hood, and an eight-cubic-foot Dometic refrigerator with overhead freezer. Three counter-level windows, combined with well positioned lighting fixtures mounted under the cabinets, provide excellent illumination for the spacious counter area. Moving forward past the foyer, you step up to find the bathroom immediately to your left on the street side, featuring a Thetford residential-style toilet and a surprisingly spacious shower that's fed by a six gallon DSI water heater. A vanity, linen closet and roof vent activated by a wall switch complete the washroom. The bedroom features a 60-inch by 75-inch queen bed with large windows on either side, providing excellent cross-ventilation. The oak and fabric decor package extends to a TV shelf with drawers, twin wardrobes, overhead cabinetry and a large wardrobe with sliding mirrored doors at the foot of the bed. In all, it's a pleasant, relaxing and spacious layout. With its unique combination of quality construction, useful features and well-thought-out design, it is easy to understand the popularity of Newmar's American Star fifth wheel. With a suggested base price under $40,000, it represents an excellent value. (Page Top)