It is small, but it is powerful.
It’s impossible to talk about RV industry without including Chinook. Although it was founded as Mair & Son, Inc. in 1938, its most iconic models date back to the ’90s & ’00s. The distinctive features of the Miniature fiberglass shell and their spacious floor plans with rear entrances are what make them so popular. Even though they are over 15 years old, some examples can still be purchased for more than $50,000.
Unfortunately, this version of the company did not survive the 2008 financial crisis. However, a new Chinook was born with new owners. They have been quietly rebuilding the brand with other RV products like camping trailers. Chinook is now ready to compete in the same segment that made them famous. Meet the Summit. With its compact form factor and rear door, the Summit clearly takes inspiration from the famous Chinooks. It is based on a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis and allows users to set up shop anywhere from a small city street to a remote area like a creek or mountainside. It is not. A fully fledged Overlander It’s not that bad if you look in the mirror.
The Summit measures 23 feet 9 inches in length and has approximately 200 square feet of space. It is slightly larger than the older Chinooks. However, the interior is as functional and densely packed as the originals. The two front facing sofas, which can fold down into a king-size bed, are a clear standout feature. The Summit’s rear has ample sleeping space and a separate bathroom. Older Chinooks had to make do with smaller wet tubs. The Summit also has a 24-gallon grey tank, a 24-gallon white tank, and a 30-gallon freshwater tank.
Recent circumstances have resulted in a boom of RVs. These types of RVs fill the gap for those who are uncomfortable with the idea of living in shared accommodation. This has allowed Chinook to rise again, with the Summit. However, its competition is probably fiercer today than 15 years ago due to new entrants such as the Winnebago or the Advanced RVB Box.
Although information about the new Summit’s availability and pricing is still scarce, it’s wonderful to see many of the original features continue to be available. We’ve never seen an RV that offers the same functionality in such a compact package.