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Hpymils's avatar
Hpymils
Explorer
Feb 28, 2015

Roadtrek Popular vs Simplicity

Looking for 2011/12 Roadtrek and it appears that the 190 Popular and the Simplicity are simular except for the engine. The Popular has the 6.0 V8 and the Simplicity has the 4.8 V8. Is the 4.8 adequate to handle the unit. And is there a difference in fuel milage? I also see that the 170 Roadtrek has the 4.8 but with a shorter wheel base. Would the 170 be better with the 4.8 since it is lighter?

2 Replies

  • I'll comment on the 4.8 vs 6.0

    I have a 2001 pickup ext cab with the 4.8. and a 2005 Chev based 2006 Pleasure-Way Lexor. it has the 6.0.
    They both have the same transmission, the rear end ratios differ

    the 4.8 will have about 270 HP

    the 6.0 will have about 305 HP

    on the pickup the 4.8 is fine for most driving.
    For hauling or up grades the engine is marginal and downshifting is usually required...if left in OD, the transmission will "hunt" shifting back and forth between OD and 3rd constantly. I have never towed with this truck- I just don't think it has the nuts.
    typical mpg for this truck is about 17 or so. We have 160,000 miles with only a water pump replacement required on the motor- otherwise gas, oil, filters, spark plugs and a fuel pump.

    The 6.0 in our van is sized very well for the much higher weight ( and wind load), the 6.0 ain't a racer but it has plenty of torque. I find the motor and tranny are perfect for this application. Our MPG at 65 MPH is about 15. On 6% downhill grades, shifting manually to 3rd will hold near a steady 55 MPH, saving the brakes
    We also have 5000# towing capacity


    I don;t think that a 4.8 is the correct motor for the weight of a class B...and in practicality a 4.8 may actually get less MPG as it may be straining and the spark timing will not be able to fully advance ( which is key to economy).

    Our record with the 4.8 is really very good, but I would not buy another pickup with the small v8. Having driven my Pal's same truck with the 5.3, his is better all around hills, grades, hauling and trailering.

    mike
  • This has been discussed many times but not in quite awhile.

    The consensus has been that the 4.8 is not the best choice for the Extended Bed Express Van Roadtrek - the 170 is ok for the regular length Express Van.

    There are other real differences between the 190 and 170, e.g. the wheelbase is noticeably longer resulting in a better ride, and ............

    Bud