*Not actual model
Winnebago Motor Homes - Which motorhome is better for four-season, off-grid adventures around Chicago, IL — the 2026 Winnebago EKKO Sprinter or the 2026 Winnebago View?
Shoppers often ask one question first: which Sprinter-based Class C is the better choice for cold-weather, off-grid trips — the 2026 Winnebago EKKO Sprinter or the 2026 Winnebago View? Both are engineered on the Mercedes-Benz® Sprinter with advanced safety tech, but their personalities diverge in meaningful ways that matter to winter campers, shoulder-season travelers, and boondockers who prioritize energy independence.
The EKKO™ Sprinter 23B leans into four-season capability. All-season insulation and a heated gear garage help protect cargo and systems, while elevated ground clearance and standard all-terrain tires complement the Mercedes-Benz® all-wheel-drive chassis. Freshwater capacity is a standout 50 gallons, supported by a Truma® AquaGo® Comfort Plus® tankless system that recirculates for faster hot water at the tap. A dry/wet bath with a swiveling cassette toilet simplifies winterization and reduces reliance on a large black tank in freezing conditions. Energy-wise, the EKKO brings a standard 320-amp-hour Lithionics® battery, a 2,000-watt pure sine inverter/charger, dedicated second alternator, and a robust solar array. If you prefer silent nights, you can delete the LP generator in favor of a larger battery option to build a generator-free, cold-weather-ready power package.
The View® lineup — 24R, 24T, and 24D — is a luxury-forward take on off-grid travel that still performs well in cooler months. While the freshwater tank is 30 gallons, the View counters with an upscale climate system that includes a 15,000 BTU A/C with heat pump and a 25,000 BTU low-profile ducted furnace. Storage is excellent, with heated gear garages on select floor plans and expansive wardrobes, pantries, and under-bed solutions. The technology story is compelling: Winnebago Connect™ intelligently monitors and manages coach systems, streamlining power use and enabling remote control via a companion app. Like the EKKO, the View includes a standard 320-amp-hour Lithionics® battery and a second alternator, and it offers a Generator Replacement Package that adds a 960-amp-hour lithium pack with four 120-watt solar panels for generator-free living. For traction in messy conditions, the View can be optioned with the Mercedes-Benz® AWD Sprinter chassis.
Here’s how we advise travelers who focus on four-season, off-grid capability:
- Cold-weather plumbing strategy: EKKO favors a cassette toilet and wet bath for simpler winterization and cold use; View focuses on residential-style baths with larger holding tanks.
- Traction and stance: EKKO’s AWD and all-terrain tires are standard; View offers AWD as an option and rides slightly lower for touring comfort.
- Energy architecture: Both include 320Ah lithium and a second alternator; View’s Generator Replacement Package dramatically increases lithium capacity, while EKKO’s larger solar suite comes standard.
- Freshwater autonomy: EKKO’s 50-gallon fresh tank supports longer boondocking; View balances smaller fresh capacity with generous gray/black holding for campsite stays.
- Cabin comfort: View’s ducted furnace and heat pump A/C shine for quiet, even heating and cooling; EKKO’s Truma® VarioHeat™ is efficient and proven for compact cabins.
- Interior format: EKKO’s multifunctional lounge adapts to work, dining, and sleeping; View’s theater seating, Murphy+ bed, and U-dinette options maximize living comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can both models be used in below-freezing conditions?
Yes. The EKKO’s all-season insulation and wet bath with cassette toilet simplify winter routines, while the View’s ducted furnace and heated systems on select configurations support cold-weather camping when winter guidelines in the owner’s manual are followed.
Which is better if I avoid campgrounds for days at a time?
If boondocking drives the decision, the EKKO’s 50-gallon freshwater tank, robust standard solar mix, and cassette toilet argue for longer autonomy. The View competes strongly when optioned with the Generator Replacement Package and still gives you a more residential bath and luxurious lounge layouts.
Ultimately, the right answer depends on your travel pattern. If you chase trailheads, mix dirt and snow, and want the simplest winterization path, the EKKO Sprinter 23B is a standout. If you favor premium lounge time, a quieter ducted climate system, and smart coach control with Winnebago Connect™, the View 24R/24T/24D aligns beautifully. Our advisors can help tailor lithium capacity, solar, seating, and AWD options to your use case — Winnebago Motor Homes is proudly serving Chicago, Madison, and Milwaukee with informed guidance and delivery-ready units that fit your season and style.