Jayco Optimum MS.24-4 Review

If interior space is important but you’re looking for a touch of European class and a motorhome built on a robust chassis, the all-new 2023 Jayco Optimum MS.24-4 could be just the ticket, writes Randall Johnston.

Some people just can’t resist a touch of European class – and who could blame them?

The layout of the Jayco Optimum Mercedes motorhome differs from the Fiat-based version of the Jayco Optimum in that it has a slightly different bathroom layout, the kitchen is a little bit bigger and the lounge on the Mercedes chassis-based model is a little bit smaller.

On first inspection, the MS.24-4 looks great. The first thing you notice is the massive LED-lit awning, which proves to be one of the most well designed and robust we have seen on a model of this size when extended. The lighting just gives it that extra touch and provides a more inviting and practical dry outdoor space at the camping ground.

At 3,620kg, the vehicle is not overly heavy for a unit of this size and the seven-speed, four-cylinder, 2.2L turbo Mercedes diesel engine (with its 71L fuel tank) has plenty of pep. Jayco uses the highest-specified Mercedes cab and chassis, with all the attendant bells and whistles.

Jayco Canterbury general manager Tony McWhirter says he was impressed with this motorhome when it first landed at the Christchurch dealership in July this year. Although the Mercedes model is new to the country, Tony reckons they will be very popular; he has already had people come to the yard to buy them. “There are a lot more of the Fiat units floating around but these are a little harder to come by,” he says. “However, they are readily available now and will be for the rest of this year and into next year.”

There’s little doubt that the Mercedes is a step up in terms of luxury. “Both the Fiat- and Mercedes-based units are available as either an Optimum version or Conquest version,” Tony explains. “With the Conquest units you have a slightly different cabin setup; with the Optimum your lithium battery and heaters are included, as is the full leather throughout the cabin, and a 10.25” touch screen multimedia unit, leather steering wheel, active lane-keeping, rain sensor wipers. Alloy rims are also included, if they are applicable to the unit. ”

Layout and décor

On stepping inside the MS.24-4, it’s clear straightaway that attention to detail, smart design and modern styling have been made a priority here. My first impression was that this is a modern and spacious unit that would accommodate a family of four with ease and comfort, as well as all the luxury you would expect from a Jayco-Mercedes combination.

The MS.24-4’s layout is intuitive and simple yet very practical and functional.

Cupboard and storage space have been well thought out, which will be appreciated by those wanting to keep everything in order. Top brand appliances, an inviting interior, high-level specifications and the designers giving everything its own space is also notable.

Having seen his fair share of what is available on the market, Tony is particularly impressed by the large lounge at the rear. The oversize windows provide clear and panoramic views out the back and along the sides of the unit, making for an altogether very pleasant space.

The lounge is generous for a four berth, considering the vehicle is reasonably compact at 7.55m long. The size of the lounge/dining area is a major factor for some families, meaning this in itself could be a big drawcard for some.

Having the toilet and shower tucked behind the front driver’s cabin (almost opposite the front door entry to the motorhome) makes sense, rather than having the bathroom facilities between the lounge and the bedroom (the lounge/dining and bedroom essentially occupy the same space anyway in a very clever way, as will be revealed shortly).

The driver and passenger cabin is modern and spacious, with superb visibility and has a great overall look and feel, thanks in no small part to the luxurious leather coverings.

With the over-cabin loft and bathroom and kitchen at the front/middle and dining room/lounge/bedroom at the rear of the motorhome, the van has a good flow, and the large windows and sunroof ensure the interior feels light and airy. A large sunroof in the centre of the motorhome brings in plenty of light, and double glazed windows are a welcome addition throughout.

The onboard control console gives you easy access and full control over all on board functions. A smoke alarm, gas detector and fire extinguisher all come as standard.

Dining area

The dining area is very attractive, and spacious enough for a fairly large family (two adults and two kids would have plenty of room to move here). This makes for a more comfortable experience for those of us whose days of ‘runway proportions’ are now long gone!

The grey seating gives the dining area a very modern yet classic style. There are plenty of traditional and USB power points, and the LED lights throughout are a nice addition here.The dining seats are comfortable and the space between the adjustable dining table and seat is ample.

Kitchen

Appointed in the middle of the caravan, the standard kitchen includes a very useful four-hob, Dometic stovetop and grill with pull-down top over the hob, providing additional bench space when the hobs aren’t in use. The unit that we looked at had the optional full oven fitted. The kitchen bench is comparably large and certainly perfectly functional, giving you everything you need to make some excellent home-quality meals. The addition of a full-sized Sphere microwave adds yet more functionality.

The kitchen and stovetop area are well lit, with powerful fan extraction to keep the motorhome cool and ventilated. A full size stainless steel sink and a full-height Thetford refrigerator allows much more capacity than the half-size units still found in many models.

Main bedroom & loft

The loft above the driver’s cabin is very spacious – it’s easily large enough to sleep two people. The mattress is very comfortable, and although no windows have been incorporated here, ample lighting ensures you can happily read your latest copy of Motorhomes, Caravans & Destinations while relaxing in bed.

The main bed (as well as the large lounge it is positioned above) is probably where this motorhome shines the most, in my opinion. It is lovely and large, and it is kept at a height that’s well above the dining area/lounge.

At bedtime, the bed is lowered via a switch on the ‘passenger side’ to be virtually stacked just above it. Again, comfort has been factored in here, with a good mattress, reading lights and charging ports in convenient locations.

There are some soft close storage drawers nearby and indeed throughout this unit.

Bathroom

The full-size shower is well appointed at the front/centre driver’s-side of this motorhome and generously sized compared to the cramped showers that can be found in other units of a similar size. The Thetford toilet is well positioned, with enough room between the shower, toilet and vanity for the user to not need contortionist skills.

Powerful extractor fans in the shower and bathroom/toilet area will help to keep other areas moisture free so that ‘new motorhome’ feeling stays with
you for longer.

The inclusion of a super-modern looking Camec front-loading washing machine, tucked away above the toilet at about eye level in the bathroom, is also very welcome; no more tricky parking up by the local laundrette!

Exterior

The sleek Mercedes merges beautifully with the Jayco Optimum livery of the cab. The silver cab is exclusively for the Optimum model, while the standard Conquest model is a white cab. The awning is what makes the MS.24-4 shine, providing that wow factor, and emphasising this van as a real indoor/outdoor experience. Extending a full two metres, the awning means you can set up your own outdoor area and make yourself at home! The LEDs provide the right amount of ambient light for some memorable nights with family and new friends alike. Of course, being 2022, the awning can be controlled from the interior or via a smartphone or tablet app as well.

The Jayco team also fits a reversing camera to the Merc, giving you peace of mind when reversing or negotiating tight spaces. Two power points on the exterior are a welcome addition.

The lockable fly screen door is a plus to help maximise air flow while keeping bugs at bay, while storage space has been factored into the exterior design too with two large compartments on the outside.

Features include 125L fresh and grey water tanks, 200w solar panel and 120AH lithium battery, an Autoterm 2kw diesel heater and two 9kg gas bottles.

The MS.24-4 has also been fitted with a 200w solar panel, and a rechargeable 12v lithium battery to make your journey even more intrepid (you can add another solar panel and battery if desired).

Summary

The 2022 Jayco Optimum MS.24-4 is a modern caravan from a highly trusted manufacturer, with the added German style and reliability of Mercedes.

The layout is highly functional, safety has been made a priority and the motorhome boasts plenty of the more high-end features that come as standard with this unit.

The sleek cabin and well thought-out design, particularly in regard to the bedroom that descends from near the roof of the lounge/dining area, is pure genius, and adds to an already attractive package. There is a lot that makes this unit well worth looking closely at for those in the market for a family friendly 24-footer with more than a touch of class.

For more information, visit https://www.jaycocanterbury.co.nz/