I remember the first time I walked into a 2019 Grand Design Solitude 375RES and felt like I'd stepped into a high-end condo rather than a camper. It's one of those rigs that just catches your eye because of its sheer size and that sleek, high-gloss exterior. If you're looking for a fifth wheel that doesn't feel like you're "roughing it," this particular model is pretty much the gold standard for its year. It's built for the long haul, whether you're planning on spending three months in Florida or just want the most comfortable weekend getaway imaginable.
Grand Design has a reputation for being a bit more "premium" than your average manufacturer, and the Solitude line is their flagship. The 375RES, in particular, is a bit of a legend in the RV community because of its unique layout. It's a rear-entertainment floor plan, but it's done in a way that maximizes every square inch of space without making the interior feel cramped or cluttered.
That Unbelievable Rear Storage
Most people buy the 2019 Grand Design Solitude 375RES for the living room, but they fall in love with it for the storage. Because the rear living area is "raised," Grand Design was able to create a massive exterior storage compartment underneath it. We're talking about a sliding tray that can hold an incredible amount of gear.
I've seen people put everything from full-sized bicycles and kayaks to folding ladders and massive toolboxes back there. It's a game-changer for full-timers. Usually, in a fifth wheel, you're limited to the "pass-through" storage under the front bedroom. Having that secondary, cavernous space in the back means you don't have to leave your hobbies at home. Plus, the sliding tray makes it so you aren't crawling on your hands and knees to find that one specific camping chair buried in the back.
A Living Room Built for Real Relaxation
Once you head inside and walk up the steps to the back, you're in the "RES" part of the name—the Rear Entertainment System. This area is separate from the kitchen, which gives it a cozy, "den" feel that's hard to find in most trailers. It has two tri-fold sofas that face each other and a pair of power-reclining theater seats that sit directly across from the big-screen TV.
The coolest part? The TV is on a "televator" system. If you aren't watching a movie, you can lower the TV into the cabinetry, revealing a massive rear window that lets in a ton of natural light. It's a small detail, but it makes the space feel so much more open. Toss in the electric fireplace that actually kicks out a decent amount of heat, and you've got a space where you'll actually want to hang out on a rainy day.
The 2019 model year also features the "Stealth" AC system. If you've ever been in an older RV, you know how loud the air conditioner can be—it's like a jet engine over your head. Grand Design engineered this one to be significantly quieter, so you can actually hear the person sitting next to you without shouting.
The Kitchen Every RV Chef Wants
Moving down into the middle of the 2019 Grand Design Solitude 375RES, you hit the kitchen and dining area. This is where the 101-inch wide-body construction really shines. Most RVs are 96 inches wide, and those extra five inches make a massive difference in the "hallway" feel of the kitchen.
You get a huge kitchen island with a deep, stainless steel sink. The countertops are solid surface, so they're easy to clean and look great. One of my favorite features is the hutch area. It's the perfect spot for a coffee station or a toaster, keeping your main prep areas clear of clutter.
As for the appliances, you're looking at a residential-sized refrigerator and a professional-grade oven and stovetop. If you enjoy cooking, you won't feel like you're compromising here. There's even a pantry that's actually big enough to hold more than just a couple of boxes of cereal. It's a kitchen designed for people who actually live in their rigs, not just those who eat out at every stop.
Sleeping and Getting Ready in Style
Walking toward the front of the unit, you'll find the bathroom and the master bedroom. The bathroom isn't just a closet with a toilet; it's got a huge shower with a seat and plenty of head clearance, even if you're on the taller side.
The bedroom features a king-sized bed in a slide-out, which opens up the floor space. What's really nice about the 375RES is the front closet. It's a full-width walk-in style closet with plenty of hanging space and shelving. There's also a dedicated spot for a stackable washer and dryer. If you're planning on being on the road for weeks at a time, having your own laundry is a luxury that you'll quickly realize is a necessity.
The bed itself is comfortable, and there's enough room to walk around it without banging your shins on the dresser. It's a peaceful retreat, away from the living area, which is great if one person wants to go to bed early while the other stays up to watch the news.
Things to Consider Before You Buy
Now, I'm a big fan of the 2019 Grand Design Solitude 375RES, but it's not for everyone. First and foremost, this thing is a beast. It's long, it's tall, and it's heavy. You aren't going to pull this with a standard half-ton or even most three-quarter-ton trucks comfortably. You're firmly in one-ton dually territory here. The dry weight is somewhere around 14,000 to 15,000 pounds, and once you load up that massive rear storage and fill the tanks, you're pushing close to 17,000 pounds.
Another thing to keep in mind is the length. At over 40 feet, you aren't going to fit into every national park campsite. You'll need to plan your trips a bit more carefully and look for "big rig friendly" parks. It's the price you pay for having a portable apartment, but it's a trade-off some people aren't ready for.
Lastly, because it's a 2019 model, you'll want to do a thorough inspection of the seals and the roof. While Grand Design builds a solid unit, five years of sun and road vibration can take a toll on any RV. Make sure the previous owner kept up with the maintenance, or budget for a little bit of "TLC" to get it back to its prime.
Final Thoughts on This Beast of a Fifth Wheel
If you can handle the size and you have the truck to pull it, the 2019 Grand Design Solitude 375RES is honestly one of the best floor plans ever made for couples. It strikes a perfect balance between luxury, functionality, and storage.
It doesn't feel like a temporary living situation; it feels like a home. Whether you're parked in the mountains of Colorado or the beaches of the Gulf Coast, this rig provides a level of comfort that's hard to beat. The combination of that raised rear living room and the massive storage underneath makes it a unique find in the used market. If you stumble across one in good condition, it's definitely worth a close look—it might just be the last RV you ever feel the need to buy.