Class A motorhomes are the undisputed Cadillacs of the RV world. They’re big. Somewhat impractical. And easy to bump into things if you’re not careful. (We kid.) All fun aside, they’re also the RV that a lot of folks buy when they’ve finally made it. Most are built on a bus chassis, giving them maximum chill on interstate hauls. And they’re the biggest of the RV classes, with plenty of space for a family of four or more to stretch out.
They also have a price tag to match, with even base models often starting at $200,000. Top-tier Class A models can command over a million dollars. But you get what you pay for, and there’s a reason that some of the most exclusive RV parks in the country won’t even let you through the gates without a Class A coach.
Here’s your guide to Class A motorhomes if you’re just getting to know the swankiest of recreational vehicle around.
Size and Space
Class As are the largest and most spacious RV class, typically ranging from 25 to 45 feet in length. This plentiful size is just what the doctor ordered for you to live your luxury lifestyle. Typical models will have multiple slide-outs, offering even more space for inside activities when parked. This makes Class A motorhomes ideal for families big and small with distinctive tastes and the checkbook to afford them. It also makes them a favorite among retirees and empty nesters. Because Class A motorhomes are spacious, there’s lots of room to host friends, family, and grandkids.
Interior Layout and Amenities
Quite simply, this ain’t your grandma’s mobile home. (Unless, of course, she’s retired and likes to host people … and err … let’s retract that last statement.) Point is, most modern Class As feel more like high-end apartments than a minimalist escape vehicle. With rare exception, they’re all equipped with residential-style kitchens and full-size appliances, including fridge, oven, and microwave. Kitchen areas are suitable for serious cooking, with plenty of usable counter space and storage.
Living areas in Class As motorhomes often include plush seating, large flat-screen TVs, and advanced entertainment systems. Many also include visual flourishes like mock fireplaces, giving a warm and fuzzy touch to your living space. Bedrooms are spacious, usually with a queen or king-size bed in the master, closets big enough to be called walk-ins, and often an en-suite bathroom with a shower, toilet, and sink. Some even offer additional half-baths or guest bathrooms — because if you’ve got this kind of money to spend, you’re not going to be caught dead sharing a bathroom.
Storage and Utilities
One of the standout features of Class As is the abundance of storage space. Both interior and exterior storage accommodate everything you need for extended travels, some including large basement storage areas for outdoor gear, tools, and supplies, along with numerous cabinets, closets, and under-bed storage for hiding away whatever your high-end vacation requires.
Utility systems in Class As are designed for long-term, off-grid capability, even though you won’t likely be going anywhere off-grid if you’re in one those $1M roving glam-fests. Truth is, Class As have some real off-grid advantages. And water capacity is one of the biggest. Almost all Class As come with large fresh water and waste tanks, robust electrical systems with generators or solar panels, and advanced plumbing systems. Climate control is also a priority, with efficient heating and air conditioning systems ensuring comfort in all weather conditions. If you’re not maxed out at full passenger capacity, your water tanks and power go even further.
Driving and Performance
Class A motorhomes are built on heavy-duty bus or truck chassis, giving you and your party the stablest of rides. They’re equipped with powerful engines, which might be either diesel or gasoline, capable of handling long-distance travel. Diesel engines, from beefy brands like Cummins and Freightliner, are known for durability and fuel efficiency, often providing better torque for towing heavy loads. Coaches with diesel powerplants are affectionately known as “diesel pushers.” And they typically cost more.
Gas engines, like the Ford Triton V10 and newer Ford V8 engines, are also common in Class As. While they generally offer less torque than the diesels, they are sufficient for most RV applications and typically less expensive to maintain.
Durability and Longevity
The robust construction of Class As means they can withstand the high demands of constant travel. Diesel engines, in particular, are built to last over 300,000 miles with proper maintenance, making them a reliable choice for full-time RVers. Gas engines, while having a shorter lifespan of 100,000 to 200,000 miles, are still durable and reliable with regular upkeep.
Cost and Investment
There’s no way around it: Class A coaches are an investment. They pull a higher initial cost than other types of RVs, reflecting their size, features, and comparative luxury. The good news is that their long-term value is significant. They’re not going to appreciate like a house, but they will undoubtedly deliver a high ROI in terms of quality of life for those committed to the RV lifestyle.
Class A motorhomes are ideal for a variety of travelers. They’re perfect for full-time RVers who need ample living space and demand the comforts of home on the road. They also suit families and groups who enjoy extended vacations and want to travel in style. Retirees, anyone who spends a significant amount of time traveling, or full-time RV livers often prefer Class As for their luxury and convenience. Class A motorhomes represent the pinnacle of luxury in the RV world. With their spacious interiors, high-end amenities, and robust construction, they offer an unparalleled travel experience for the most enlightened of road warriors.
Learn More About the Different Types of RV
New to the RV Life and looking to learn about different types of RV before you buy? Good move. Check out all the articles in our series — Learning the Different RV Types: An RV Buyers Guide. We’ll start you off with the difference types of motorhomes and towable RVs. Then you can dive into to whichever RV type interests you most and suits you best. Then you’ll be an even savvier shopper.
Class A Motorhomes: An RV Buyer Basics Guide
Class B Motorhomes: An RV Buyer Basics Guide
Class C Motorhomes: An RV Buyer Basics Guide
Fifth Wheels: An RV Buyer Basics Guide
Toy Haulers: An RV Buyer Basics Guide
Travel Trailers: An RV Buyer Basics Guide
Pop-Up Campers: An RV Buyer Basics Guide
Teardrop Trailers: An RV Buyer Basics Guide
Truck Campers: An RV Buyer Basics Guide
Fish Houses: An RV Buyer Basics Guide
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