Itasca, long known for being the upscale cousin of iconic Winnebago, offers a brand-new family-friendly floorplan for 2009/2010 in the Meridian V line. Taking many of the design and appointment cues from the Meridian full-timer stable, Itasca offers a dual-purpose bunk feature for enthusiasts who need additional space for family and friends.The coach is built on the Freightliner XCS straight-rail chassis rather than the Freightliner Maxum dropped-rail chassis found on the standard Meridian line. The motorhome offers the expected features in this size, including a 55-degree wheel cut and 10,000-pound hitch receiver. The turbo­charged 340-hp Cummins 6.7-l ISB and matched Allison six-speed transmission are supported on NeWay air suspension and stopped by ABS disc/drum air brakes supplemented by an engine brake for precise control. TrueAir® residential central air conditioning w/heat pump 40,000 BTU furnace w/2-stage blower (39N). Outside, full-body paint disguises the multitude of RotoCast compartments totaling more than 140 cubic feet of available storage. There is an exterior entertainment center with a 32-inch TV, AM/FM stereo, speakers, DVD player and radio antenna.The front-mounted 6,000-watt Cummins Onan generator. Auto-Start sits ready to keep things humming when isolated from shorepower and/or it senses excess battery drain.I nside, the Ultraleather six-way power driver seat and copilot seat with footrest offer long-distance comfort. Dash controls are clearly labeled with three large gauges that give the status of engine and brake system functions. Color video camera system with rear and side cameras. Hardwood storage cabinetry above the dash holds the distribution controls for the multi-TV connections, antenna, satellite receiver plus DVD players available in this floorplan. ( Apple TV installed in bedroom and ready in main living space ) Unique to this floorplan is the “bunk room” located in the rear streetside slide. Perfect for the kids, this dual-purpose area will comfortably sleep most anyone in the 26-inch by 75-inch bunks and can entertain as well with DVD/monitors.