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Auto makers take note of Keystone's Passport travel trailer

GOSHEN, Ind.--Leading towable manufacturer, Keystone RV continues to see RV enthusiasts enjoy their lifestyle during the busy summer travel season despite rising gas prices.

Now besides RV enthusiasts, lightweight travel trailers are getting the attention of automotive manufacturers. Due to its growing popularity, the Keystone Passport Ultra Lite travel trailer was recently featured at the Kia Motors of America's press introduction for the new 2009 Kia Borrego in Cle Elum, Wash. this July. The sales of lightweight travel trailers that can be towed by smaller, fuel efficient vehicles remain strong as RV and automobile manufacturers respond to changing consumer demands.

"Lightweight trailers such as the Keystone Passport show that a full-size trailer can now be towed by a newer generation of crossover vehicles and lightweight trucks," said Ryan Juday, product manager for Keystone's Passport Ultra-Lite division. "We are trying to dispel the myths to consumer that a big engine or SUV is needed to tow a full-size RV."

The Kia Borrego is a mid-sized sport-utility vehicle with Kia's first-ever V8 engine as well as offering a V6 engine. The launch event focused around outdoor lifestyles in the rugged Cascade Mountains. Kia used the Passport for the Borrego towing demonstrations. First time towers felt comfortable handling the 27-foot Passport with the new 2009 Kia Borrego. The Keystone Passport Ultra Lite travel trailer models used for the presentation included with towing weights:

• 195RB--3860 pounds
• 250BH-- 4370 pounds
• 245RB-- 4575 pounds
• 23FK BreakAway--4535 pounds

"As we launched the new 2009 Kia Borrego, we wanted to show its towing capabilities," said Tom Loveless, vice president sales, Kia Motors of America. "The Kia Borrego serves a wide range of consumer needs from outdoor adventurers to those looking for a reliable, economical, safe and stylish every day vehicle."

Launched at the RVIA National Trade Show in December of 2006, the Passport Ultra Lite travel trailer line continues to exceed company benchmarks. "Keystone jumped on the opportunity to serve a growing niche for consumers wanting an affordable, lightweight travel trailer that can be towed by crossover vehicles and smaller trucks," said Juday. "A major ingredient in Keystone's success today is creating new products based on customer feedback and changing demands."

The Passport’s advanced Load-Equalization suspension system allows effortless towing by crossover vehicles, light trucks and compact SUVs. The sleek, aerodynamic design and completely enclosed underbelly reduces wind resistance and increases fuel economy.

Strategically designed, the Passport comfortably sleeps up to nine and has clever hidden storage compartments and extra large galley areas. The Passport retails with a range of options from $16,000 to $22,000.