Entegra Coach Esteem 29V: The Class C That Might Just Make You Sell Your House

The Entegra Coach Esteem 29V: A Full-Timer's Perspective

Okay, let's get real. Most RV reviews are all sunshine and rainbows, but what about the downsides? I'm looking at the Entegra Coach Esteem 29V through the lens of someone who might actually live in this thing full-time. Matt's RV Reviews gave it a thorough walkthrough, and while the enthusiasm is contagious, I'm here to ask the tough questions. Can you actually survive, and thrive, in this Class C on a long-term basis?

First Impressions: Is It Really That Good?

Matt and Will from Matt's RV Reviews were seriously impressed, calling it potentially the 'most solid, perfect motorhome in the entire RV industry'. That's a bold claim. They even suggested it could capture 90% of the Class C market. What makes it so special? The seamless molded fiberglass front cap, the full body paint (especially in maroon with the blacked-out package), and the overall build quality seem to be major factors. It's also important to note that the actual length is 32 feet 6 inches, so be aware of that when planning your travels and campsite bookings. Don't be fooled by the '29V' designation.

According to Matt, 'for every demographic of RVER out there, they can make this work.' That's a strong statement about its versatility. But versatility and reality are two different things.

The Good: Features That Matter for Full-Time Living

Let's talk about the features that make a difference when you're living on the road full-time. The kitchen is a huge plus. As Matt points out, it's 'probably the best kitchen in a Class C' he's seen. Ample counter space, a big single bowl sink, a three-burner cooktop with red indicator lights, and a decent-sized fridge/freezer combo are essential for anyone who likes to cook. The pantry with drawers is another significant win.

The interior layout is also well-thought-out. Even with the slides in, you can easily access the back of the RV, including the bathroom and bed. This is crucial for quick stops and overnight stays where you don't want to extend the slides. The tank sizes are reasonable: 47 gallons of fresh water, 32 gallons of black water, and 41 gallons of gray water. This should give you a few days of off-grid living if you're conservative with water usage.

The fact that you can use '100% of the whole camper' even with the slides in is a major selling point for real-world convenience. That's a big deal when you're constantly on the move.

The Bad: Annoyances That Add Up Over Time

No RV is perfect, and the Esteem 29V has its share of quirks. Matt and Will highlighted a few dislikes. First, the wet bay setup with the 'Da Vinci code' water connections seems unnecessarily complicated. When you're constantly hooking up and disconnecting, this could become a major source of frustration. Matt stated it best: 'Just all of that stuff is actually really annoying in my opinion.'

Another gripe was the unfinished drawer interiors. At this price point (MSRP of $218,485), you'd expect a higher level of fit and finish. Splinter-prone drawers are simply unacceptable. Will simply stated that the drawers should be 'finished off'.

Matt's biggest dislike, however, was the BM Pro control system. He found it unresponsive and slow, noting that he is 'not a fan of how long the BM Pro takes.' A reliable and user-friendly control system is essential for managing the RV's functions, and a laggy system can be a real headache.

The Verdict: Is It Worth the Investment for Full-Timers?

So, is the Entegra Coach Esteem 29V a good choice for full-time RV living? It depends on your priorities and tolerance for minor annoyances. The solid construction, livable floor plan, and well-equipped kitchen are major pluses. However, the finicky wet bay, unfinished drawers, and slow BM Pro system are definite drawbacks.

Ultimately, you need to weigh the pros and cons and decide if the Esteem 29V aligns with your full-time RV lifestyle. Don't let the initial excitement cloud your judgment. Consider how you'll actually use the RV on a day-to-day basis and whether you're willing to overlook its imperfections.

Key Takeaways:

• Solid Construction: The Entegra Coach Esteem 29V boasts a robust build quality and seamless fiberglass front cap.
• Livable Floor Plan: The layout allows for easy access to essential areas even with the slides retracted.
• Well-Equipped Kitchen: The kitchen offers ample counter space, storage, and appliances for full-time cooking.
• Annoying Wet Bay: The water connection system is overly complicated and potentially frustrating.
• Unfinished Drawers: The lack of finish on the drawer interiors is a disappointing oversight.
• BM Pro Issues: The control system is slow and unresponsive, which can be a nuisance.

Final Thoughts

The Entegra Coach Esteem 29V is undoubtedly an impressive Class C RV. However, it's crucial to look beyond the hype and consider the real-world implications of full-time living. If you're serious about hitting the road, do your research, weigh the pros and cons, and decide if this RV truly fits your lifestyle. Don't forget to watch Matt's RV Reviews' full video for a more in-depth look at the Esteem 29V! You can find it on their YouTube channel. They offer a great visual tour that complements this review.