2025 Coachmen Apex Ultra Lite 289BHS vs 2024 Starcraft Super Lite 311BH

Detailed Comparison

When it comes to the 2025 Coachmen Apex Ultra Lite 289BHS versus the 2024 Starcraft Super Lite 311BH, the right choice depends on your travel style and priorities.

Dimensionally, you're looking at 16.5 ft for the Coachmen Apex Ultra Lite 289BHS and 16.5 ft for the Starcraft Super Lite 311BH. The Starcraft Super Lite 311BH carries an extra 1,300 lbs, which affects tow vehicle requirements and fuel economy.

For sleeping arrangements, the Coachmen Apex Ultra Lite 289BHS offers room for 3 and the Starcraft Super Lite 311BH can handle 4.

Looking at self-sufficiency, the Coachmen Apex Ultra Lite 289BHS packs 32 gal of fresh water and 250W of solar. The Starcraft Super Lite 311BH counters with 58 gal fresh water and 100W solar.

Price is often the deciding factor. The Starcraft Super Lite 311BH starts at $33,000 MSRP, while the Coachmen Apex Ultra Lite 289BHS commands $34,000 — a $1,000 gap.

Off-grid campers should pay close attention to solar wattage, battery capacity, and tank sizes. Weekend warriors will appreciate the easier towing and quicker setup of the lighter model.

Whichever you choose, you'll be getting a capable rig. Just make sure to inspect one in person before signing.

When it comes to water management, tank capacity plays a major role in how long you can stay off the grid. The 2024 Starcraft Super Lite 311BH carries 58 gallons of fresh water versus 32 gallons in the 2025 Coachmen Apex Ultra Lite 289BHS, providing an extra 26 gallons for longer boondocking stays. Gray water capacity favors the 2025 Coachmen Apex Ultra Lite 289BHS at 52 gallons versus 49 gallons, which directly affects how often you need to find a dump station. The 2024 Starcraft Super Lite 311BH also leads in black water capacity with 40 gallons compared to 34 gallons, an important consideration for families or full-time travelers.

Electrical systems are increasingly important as RVers rely on more electronics and appliances. The 2025 Coachmen Apex Ultra Lite 289BHS comes equipped with 250W of factory solar compared to 100W on the 2024 Starcraft Super Lite 311BH, a meaningful difference for off-grid energy harvesting. Battery storage gives the edge to the 2025 Coachmen Apex Ultra Lite 289BHS with 150Ah versus 100Ah, translating to longer run times for lights, fans, and charging devices overnight. Both come with 500W inverters, capable of running common household appliances when not plugged into shore power.

For solo travelers and couples who value maneuverability, the 2025 Coachmen Apex Ultra Lite 289BHS with its more compact footprint will be easier to navigate through tight campgrounds and mountain passes. Families with children should lean toward the 2024 Starcraft Super Lite 311BH, which sleeps up to 4 and provides more flexibility for overnight guests. Full-time RVers who spend extended periods off-grid will benefit most from the 2025 Coachmen Apex Ultra Lite 289BHS's power setup and the 2024 Starcraft Super Lite 311BH's water reserves, as these directly impact daily comfort and independence from hookups. Weekend warriors and seasonal campers who primarily stay at full-hookup campgrounds may find that the differences in tank sizes and power systems matter less, allowing them to focus on floor plan preference and overall comfort instead.

From a value perspective, the 2024 Starcraft Super Lite 311BH at $33,000 MSRP represents a $1,000 savings over the 2025 Coachmen Apex Ultra Lite 289BHS at $34,000, a 3% price difference. Breaking it down per sleeping position, the 2025 Coachmen Apex Ultra Lite 289BHS costs roughly $11,333 per berth while the 2024 Starcraft Super Lite 311BH comes in at $8,250 per berth. On a cost-per-foot basis, the 2025 Coachmen Apex Ultra Lite 289BHS runs about $2,061 per linear foot versus $2,000 for the 2024 Starcraft Super Lite 311BH, which helps contextualize the value each unit delivers for its size. It is also worth considering that Coachmen and Starcraft have different dealer networks and warranty programs, which can significantly impact your long-term ownership experience and resale value down the road.