RV Smackdown – Bounder vs. Excursion Livability

In our past RV Smackdowns we’ve questioned the large price difference between an entry-level Diesel RV & a mid-level Diesel RV, we’ve given our thoughts on Diesel vs. Gas RV engines and chassis…now it’s time to put the “house” part of a Gas RV head-to-head with a Diesel RV.  Doing our best to compare RVs in an “apple-to-apple” style we’ve handpicked the 2015 Fleetwood Bounder 33c and the 2015 Fleetwood Excursion 33d to see how they compare.

We’ve chosen these two RVs because they’re very similar in size inside and out.  They come with 2 slides, the tanks are similar capacities and so on.  Exterior paint is equally swirly and the interior design is comparable, albeit the Bounder seems a little more contemporary than the Excursion. These particular RVs are outfitted with similar upgrades, so I’d say they’re about as “same” as we’re going to get.

Remember we’re not debating THE BIGGEST difference between these two RV’s:  diesel vs. gas, if you want to know our thoughts on the subject, or chime in with your experiences please click over to this article: https://www.gonewiththewynns.com/rv-diesel-or-gas

Detailed Comparison and Floorplans of the 33C and 33D

Sure comparing a diesel Excursion and gas Bounder is like comparing Apples to Oranges, but it’s fun to see the differences in each of these two RVs side-by-side. Here’s the detailed specs on both RVs.

Check out how similar these two RV floorplans are. On a personal note: I really like having the slides on the same side so when I’m walking around the RV I don’t accidentally forget and bust my head when getting into the bays.

Here’s the differences in available options between the Bounder and the Excursion, pretty funny to see model specific upgrades like a drop down loft, propane oven, or king size bed…certain mods just won’t fit on both motorhomes.

Sure comparing a diesel Excursion and gas Bounder is like comparing Apples to Oranges, but it’s fun to see the differences in each of these two RVs side-by-side. Here’s the detailed specs on both RVs.

Check out how similar these two RV floorplans are. On a personal note: I really like having the slides on the same side so when I’m walking around the RV I don’t accidentally forget and bust my head when getting into the bays.

Here’s the differences in available options between the Bounder and the Excursion, pretty funny to see model specific upgrades like a drop down loft, propane oven, or king size bed…certain mods just won’t fit on both motorhomes.

A few thoughts on Excursion not covered in the video

Ups

• All Stainless Steel appliances
• Composite flooring throughout (no carpet except on slide out under dinette)
• Exterior Storage – a bit more in Excursion including a pass through bay for items like snowboards, skis, etc.
• Diesel Generator is more quiet and the AGS is huge when it comes to keeping the batteries topped up
• 1 foot shorter overall height – Low clearance comes in handy especially for getting to wild camping spots!
• 4 inches shorter length than Bounder, might not seem like much but every inch counts for getting into tight spaces
• Ride Height sits lower to the ground for (in theory) less wind resistance and better MPG
• Better Leveling – Because the airbags can be emptied when parked, the jacks have more room to travel

Downs

• We don’t like either of the color options for the interior, or the interior woodwork and styling
• No full-length mirror inside which makes lookin’ good a little more difficult
• No cedar lined closets
• Our dream size is as close to 30′ as possible, but if size isn’t an issue check out the 35B floorplan

A few thoughts on Bounder not covered in the video

Ups

• In general we prefer the way the Bounder living area looks and functions in comparison to the Excursion
• Solid Surface Kitchen Table (although the built-in cup holders are a bit of an eyesore, they are functional)
• L-Shape Sofa creates a “Homey, cozy feel” by the fireplace with a perfect view of the TV
• Like the 3-Door refrigerator better than the side-by-side style
• Sofa, floor and walls are a lighter color which makes the RV seem brighter
• Like the artwork in the bedroom
• Optional Propane Stove with Oven (which Excursion doesn’t offer, personally we don’t like the RV ovens but some people love them)
• Optional King Size Bed
• Optional Free Standing Dinette with Credenza (might be a better option for a convertible office vs. the dinette)
• Price

Downs

• No option for frameless windows (although some people prefer the old style windows and claim better airflow)

Please remember these are just our opinions, and by no means is this the definitive guide to either of these RVs…consider it the “quick read” version.  If you’re interested in purchasing either of these two RVs there is loads more research to be done.  That said what do you think based on our video and article?  Or even better share your personal experience in the comments below; let’s keep this RV Smackdown alive!