The 2018 Daycruiser 144 by Midwest Automotive Designs is the closest thing you may ever experienced to a private business jet on wheels. Based on the 144 inch wheelbase Mercedes Sprinter chassis this van's length is under 20 feet but still manages to seat 8 passengers belted and still make room for a bed, small galley and bathroom. It's an amazing feat of design and engineering that is only matched by its feeling of sheer luxury.

As you step into the van you're immediately taken by the rich burled wood overhead cabinetry and luxurious leather Maybach captains chairs front and mid van 4 total. Each captain's chair features arm rests, head rests and is heated with massage controls. There's a large 28 inch LCD flat panel TV mounted above the cab for rear passenger entertainment and the two jumps seats behind the passenger captains' chairs convert into a small bed. In the very back of the van is a wall of hand polished burled wood and a door that leads into the rear lavatory. There's push button flush for the toilet on the driver's side, a roof vent and ducted air conditioning and heat in the bathroom as well. A small galley with sink and microwave and refrigerator are on the passenger side. Yes, the galley and the toilet share the same space. It's an odd arrangement but forgivable considering we are in a van that is 19 feet 6 inches in length. There is a floor layout option that moves the galley into the main coach but you'll lose a jump seat and the corresponding bed will be smaller as well.

Because the Daycruiser does have a bathroom, galley and bed it is technically a recreational vehicle, at least according to the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA). The RVIA doesn't specify how large the bed should be nor does it specify that a stove is required. Hence, the Daycruiser 144 is by definition an RV at least according to the RVIA. That doesn't mean you can or should take it camping. In fact you probably wouldn't.

The Daycruiser 144 is missing some important things that would make it an acceptable RV for camping: It lacks any windows that open other than the two front windows in the cab. It lacks any roof ventilation in the main coach except for the small vent fan in the rear bathroom. It doesn't have an independent coach heater or air conditioner. It does have a secondary HVAC system controlled from the cab but the engine needs to be running for this secondary HVAC system to operate. Not the best situation for camping. Finally, there is no dining table nor is there an option for roof solar. No, you're not going to use this van for camping.

What you are going to use the Daycruiser 144 for is touring. And touring in luxury. With its ability to seat 8 passengers; a short length that makes parking in standard spaces in any city; and RV conveniences like a microwave, refrigerator, sink, bathroom and bed this is the ultimate touring coach. I applaud Midwest Automotive Designs for its sheer audacity in building the Daycruiser and expanding the definition of what an RV can be. This coach is an ideal replacement for any family looking for a large SUV or van. It offers massive passenger carrying capacity in an quality built, luxurious form. What's better, because the van is classified as an RV, you can finance it as a second home. What could be better than that?

The Daycruiser 144 isn't for everybody. It's not a camping van but it is a new kind of RV designed for the needs of a changing marketplace. I highly recommend the Daycruiser 144 to any family or business looking for a touring coach that seats 8 passengers and gives you all the conveniences of an RV.