FOREST CITY, Iowa, Jan. 12, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Winnebago Industries, Inc., (NYSE: WGO) a leading United States (U.S.) recreation vehicle manufacturer, introduces the new tag-axle 42E to its 2012 Winnebago Journey and Itasca Meridian Class A diesel lineup.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120112/CG34868-a)

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120112/CG34868-b)

"Our diesel products have never been better than in 2012," said Winnebago Industries' Vice President of Sales and Marketing Roger Martin. "In fact, over the last three years, we have more than doubled our diesel market share to become the second largest manufacturer of Class A diesels. Much of that is thanks to innovative, new floorplans like the 42E that offers amenities and spacious living that make them a cut above the competition."

As the first tag-axle floorplan in the popular Journey and Meridian lineups, the new triple slide 42E has it all. This bath and a half floorplan features a full wall slide on the passenger side of the coach that includes an impressive 40-inch LCD HDTV, Euro Recliner with pull-out table, buffet with extendable dining table and chairs, four-door refrigerator, pantry and residential-like bedroom wardrobe. The living area also offers a Rest Easy® extendable sectional sofa, tray ceiling design and polished ceramic tile for an inviting, upscale look.

The fully-equipped mid-coach galley features an innovative pull-out island for more prep space, as well as increases your storage space with three drawers on full-extension slides. Besides the one-of-a-kind wardrobe that features a full-length clothes rod, his and hers three drawer units and an adjustable shoe shelf, the roomy bedroom includes a queen bed nestled in the slideout and dual nightstands. A new, power-adjustable king bed is also optional. The private master bath in the rear of the coach features our incredibly spacious BIG Shower as well as plenty of storage, with a washer/dryer optional. A half bath sits mid-coach that is perfect for guests.

The 42E is built on our 44,320-lb. GVWR Maxum® lowered rail tag-axle chassis that features 220 cubic feet of easy-to-access exterior storage and unsurpassed ride and handling. The 42E has plenty of power too with a 400 hp Cummins ISL 8.9L turbo-charged diesel engine.

"The new 42E is a great floorplan at a great price point," said Mike Regan, president and general manager of Crestview RV Center in Buda, TX. "I love the bath and a half floorplan, and I think customers are really going to like the usability and layout of this coach."

The 2012 Winnebago Journey and Itasca Meridian 42E make their retail market debut at this week's Florida RV SuperShow in Tampa, Fla.

For more information on the 2012 Winnebago Journey and Itasca Meridian, or to find a dealer, visit www.GoWinnebago.com or www.GoItasca.com.

About Winnebago Industries

Winnebago Industries, Inc., The Most Recognized Name In Motor Homes®, is a leading U.S. manufacturer of recreation vehicles, which are used primarily in leisure travel and outdoor recreation activities. The Company builds quality motor homes, travel trailers and fifth wheel products under the Winnebago, Itasca, Era and SunnyBrook brand names. Winnebago Industries has received the Quality Circle Award from the Recreation Vehicle Dealers Association every year since the award's inception in 1996. The Company's common stock is listed on the New York and Chicago Stock Exchanges and traded under the symbol WGO. Options for the Company's common stock are traded on the Chicago Board Options Exchange. For access to Winnebago Industries' investor relations material or to add your name to an automatic email list for Company news releases, visit, http://www.winnebagoind.com/investor.html.


    For further information:        Kelli Harms
                                    641/585-6731
                                    kharms@winnebagoind.com

SOURCE Winnebago Industries, Inc.