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  • What Is the Most Fuel-Efficient Class B RV You Can Buy?

    What Is the Most Fuel-Efficient Class B RV You Can Buy?

    What is the most fuel-efficient Class B RV you can buy? Is there a big difference in fuel mileage from one model to the next? This is RV Trader’s list of Class B RVs that will likely return the best fuel economy based on a few criteria from our own reviews.

    Our Choice for Class B Mileage Champs

    Mercedes-Benz Sprinter–Based Class B RVs

    One of the reasons people like the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis is the company’s turbocharged four-cylinder diesel engine. This driveline extracts some of the best mileage out of a drop of fuel yet still provides competent power and drivability. In addition, an RV builder can specify from a long list of safety and comfort options available on the Sprinter chassis.

    Here are a few models available on the Sprinter chassis that are popular searches.

    Airstream Interstate 19GT

    Many builders of Class B RVs use the larger chassis with all-wheel drive; but if fuel mileage is your target, the Airstream Interstate 19GT uses the smaller 144-inch wheelbase chassis with two-wheel drive. The company does a good job of packaging this rig so it is a usable daily driver and also a functional camper. Airstream’s own estimated fuel mileage is about 16–18 miles per gallon – this is mostly a guess, although not unreasonable.

    Entegra Coach Launch 19Y

    We got to see the Entegra Coach Launch 19Y last year and liked the combination of cargo space and usable interior space, notably its rear cargo bay where the bed can lift up to maximize load space. Based on the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter all-wheel drive chassis, this Class B has a very well equipped cockpit with the tech and comfort features you would expect from the platform.

    Winnebago Revel

    The Winnebago Revel is a long-standing force in the Class B RV market. A variant introduced in 2024, the Revel Sport, is more affordable but still offers much of what the brand has built its reputation on, as well as some interesting floorplan options of its own.

    Ram Promaster Chassis–Based Class B RVs

    The Ram Promaster has become far less popular as a conversion only because the gasoline V6 and front-wheel drive powertrain limit the size of the RV you can build with this chassis. But these features also make for good handling and allow for more interior space.

    Airstream Rangeline

    The Rangeline is an affordable Airstream Class B van with a rear cargo area, but unique in that it’s available with a pop top for more sleeping capacity. While this option adds weight (and $11,900), it also provides a bed up top which is a fun place for your youthful travelers to lord over the campground.

    Coachmen Pixel

    I recently got to check out the Coachmen Pixel P 2.0M and found it to be one of my favorite Class B RVs that I have seen lately. It does a good job of balancing overall size with interior features and would make a great daily driver as well as weekend warrior. Definitely worth checking out.

    Winnebago Solis Pocket

    If a maneuverable Class B that gets decent mileage is a priority but you don’t want a diesel engine, the Winnebago Solis Pocket 36A might be just what you’re looking for. This small Class B camper van has a flexible, functional interior. However the 36A does not have a bathroom which might be great for some people, not for others.

    No worries, though. There is also the Solis Pocket 36B which has less cargo carrying space but does have a pretty decent bathroom across the back of the van. At just 17 feet 10 inches in length, these diminutive vans can easily fit into a normal parking space.

    Ford Transit–Based Class B RVs

    While not truly a mileage champion, Ford’s Transit chassis still returns fair mileage while offering very good drivability. The fact that it’s a Ford and that parts may be readily available even in many small towns is a big plus if you need maintenance on the road.

    Thor Motor Coach Palladium 1930

    The Thor Motor Coach Palladium 1930 is one of my favorites. This Class B RV does feature all-wheel drive which will affect your fuel mileage but does have a very usable interior that would work on weekend adventures and weekday driving.

    What Is Considered “Good” Fuel Economy?

    If you’re buying a new passenger vehicle, a car, or SUV, you will likely see a window sticker that shows the estimated fuel mileage of that vehicle. This is mandated by the federal government and all passenger vehicles under 8,500 pounds GVW are subject to fuel consumption testing.

    Heavier vehicles, like heavy-duty trucks and motorhomes, however, are not tested at all in this manner. Which is just as well, because real-world numbers can differ wildly where hauling and trailering is involved.

    Based on input from readers and various forums, a very efficient Class B RV with a diesel engine can get up to 17–18 miles per gallon. An independent study of some Ram Promaster 1500 series vans showed that they averaged about 15 miles per gallon. Ford’s Transit vans weren’t far behind with about 14.5 miles per gallon in the same independent study.

    My own 3/4-ton pickup with a large gasoline engine can also achieve those numbers if I’m not towing and I’m very easy on the throttle. But hang a trailer off the back of that beast and I’m averaging about 9 miles per gallon.

    Generally speaking, the less weight and complexity you have in any vehicle, the better the mileage can be. So a two-wheel-drive Class B is likely to get better fuel mileage than the same model with four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The same goes for any additional equipment. So if fuel mileage is a priority these are things to consider.

    Gas or Diesel?

    If you’re choosing a Class B RV and want the best fuel economy, diesel is the way to go. As it happens, the only diesel Class B chassis on the market is the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, which uses a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine. However, the fuel savings have to be balanced against the significantly greater cost of the diesel engine itself. Diesels are typically more efficient than gas engines; but in order to accommodate the forces they encounter, a diesel engine has a more robust construction, which is more expensive.

    The most fuel-efficient gasoline-powered platform, in our experience, is the Ram Promaster chassis, which uses the Pentastar 3.6-liter gasoline V6. This chassis is unusual in that it’s front-wheel-drive; there are no driveline components under the back of the chassis which enables an RV builder to potentially build a smaller box while achieving comparable interior living space.

    How to Unlock Better Fuel Mileage

    There are two major factors that affect fuel mileage in any vehicle, but particularly an RV: speed and weight.

    Check out the cars on the highway and you’ll notice that modern cars all kind of look the same. All those smooth curves and elongated shapes? They’re designed to cut through the wind and minimize air resistance, improving fuel economy. RVs, however, are the opposite of sleek – and the faster you go, the more fuel you need to burn to go the same distance.

    The point of this is that the difference in fuel mileage between 60 mph and 80 mph is significant. You can get much better fuel mileage at lower highway speeds which is why the government mandated a 55 mph speed limit in the 1970s. Slowing down (within reason) can improve fuel mileage considerably.

    Weight is absolutely a factor but more so in starting and climbing hills. Wind resistance is a big factor in cruising along the highway but a lighter vehicle will obviously get better fuel economy, especially when accelerating uphill or from a dead stop. This is why many people recommend traveling with empty holding tanks – water is heavy.

    Bonus tip: Properly inflating your tires can significantly improve mileage – in addition to preventing dangerous blowouts, reducing wear on the tires, and lowering stress on the vehicle suspension. Many modern vehicles incorporate a tire pressure monitoring system. If your vehicle doesn’t have one, there are some very good choices on the market and these are a valuable investment to keep your rig running smoothly and your fuel costs low.

    When it comes to choosing the most fuel-efficient Class B RV, the right option depends on your travel style, budget, and priorities. Lighter builds, two-wheel-drive setups, and moderate highway speeds generally return better mileage, while simple maintenance like proper tire pressure can make a surprising difference.  Ultimately, the best RV for you is one that balances economy with comfort and supports the kind of adventures you want to take.

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  • Dozens of Vehicles Disabled in Consecutive Circle K Fuel Mix-Ups

    Dozens of Vehicles Disabled in Consecutive Circle K Fuel Mix-Ups

    Following a cross-drop error in January that led to at least 14 vehicles being accidentally filled with diesel instead of gasoline (or vice versa) in Avon, Ohio, another Circle K station has suffered the same issue – this time thousands of miles away in Phoenix, Arizona. At least 25 motorists were left with broken-down cars and heft repair bills following the mix-up. Though these seem to be one-off, isolated incidents, the statistics say it happens more often than you might think. 

    What is a “cross-drop”?

    A cross-drop happens when the wrong type of fuel is pumped from a delivery truck into a storage tank, due either to unclear labeling or just human error. It’s a major headache when it happens, since the tank will need to be taken out of service until the contaminated fuel is cleaned up, knocking out the supply of at least one grade of fuel at the station.

    What happens when you mix diesel and gasoline?

    An internal combustion engine runs on tiny explosions, and gasoline and diesel combust differently. Of the two, gasoline is more volatile and explodes more readily. When gasoline is put into a diesel engine, premature combustion can occur, causing what’s commonly referred to as “engine knock”, and this will damage the engine over time. On the other hand, when diesel is put into a gas engine the engine will likely stop or stall because of the diesel not combusting. But that’s just one part of the problem.

    Diesel is thicker than gasoline, which means it can can clog and damage a gas engine’s injection system and other components. Conversely, because gasoline lacks the lubricating quality of diesel, it can lead to premature wear of powertrain components. Everything the fuel touches, between the tank and the engine, and from the engine to the exhaust can and will be affected when the wrong type of fuel is used.

    Big-ticket items on the repair bill include: engine, catalytic converter, fuel pump, and fuel injectors. And don’t forget the cost of labor – because whatever doesn’t get replaced will still need to be flushed out and cleaned. One of the Circle K customers affected by the mix-up was given a repair estimate of over $6,000.

    This is the reason why fuel stations clearly distinguish their gas and diesel nozzles, whether it’s the color, the physical placement on either side of the pump, or a different nozzle diameter. But none of that helps if the problem is with the fuel itself.

    What to do if this happens to you

    If you haven’t started the vehicle yet – don’t! If you’re already underway, pull over as soon as possible and turn the engine off. Get a tow to a mechanic to have the fuel system flushed and inspected for damage. If you just filled up and you hear any unusual noises from the engine, see a warning light, or experience sudden loss of acceleration, stop the car. It might be tempting to limp to the nearest shop, but this can make the damage worse. It’s not worth risking $6,000 in repairs for a $60 tow.

    If the fault falls on the gas station, as in these two cases, make sure to call the company’s customer support number. “We will help them through the claims process, including the necessary documentation. After reviewing and verifying the claim, we’ll reimburse customers for any repairs or associated costs related to this issue,” reads a statement from Circle K regarding the incident.

    Cross-drops are more frequent than you might think

    As one of the most expensive mistakes a gas station can experience, many safeguards have been established to prevent a cross-drop. But mistakes can and do happen – at a rate of one in 45,000 fuel drops. That’s less likely than Asteroid 2024 YR4 hitting Earth, and means that 99.998% of deliveries are completed without incident. But considering there are over 100,000 retail fuel stations in the US, with each receiving a few deliveries a week, the math says it happens about once, maybe twice a day, somewhere in the country; we simply don’t hear about them because they’re caught in time.

  • 20 of the Most Fuel-Efficient RV Models

    20 of the Most Fuel-Efficient RV Models

    RVs have so many possibilities when it comes to fun activities, such as camping, tailgating, and roadtrips. But one of the biggest drawbacks of these large vehicles is fuel economy, as the price of gasoline can get expensive with each visit to the pump. The most fuel efficient RVs are a win-win for finding relief from high fuel prices and keeping up your road-rambling adventures. RV Trader is sharing 20 of the most fuel-efficient RV models by vehicle class and what they have to offer for your next adventure.

    Class A

    1. Forest River Berkshire

    A luxurious RV with elegant furniture, multiple flooring options, and a flatscreen TV, Forest River Berkshire can get up to 12.5 miles per gallon on the road. With a 100 gallon tank, this decked-out RV is a leader when it comes to fuel consumption for Class A motorhomes. 

    2. Holiday Rambler Navigator

    Fun for vacations and long journeys, Holiday Rambler Navigator has excellent handling on the road and can get up to 10.6 miles per gallon. It also has a stylish and spacious interior, which can include a king bed, fireplace, and fully accessorized kitchen with appliances.

    3. Newmar Dutch Star

    Newmar Dutch Star stands out as a diesel motor coach that’s both comfortable and classy with its interior design. It can also get up to 11 miles per gallon, partly from its advanced steering tech, tire pressure monitoring, and stability and traction controls.

    4. Thor Palazzo 33.5

    Fitting for a family excursion, Thor Palazzo 33.5 is big on space and doesn’t compromise on fuel economy. At its best it can get up to about 13 miles per gallon, which is impressive when you consider it comes with a queen bed, bunk beds, sofa bed, shower, and dinette.

    Class B

    5. American Coach Patriot

    A Class B RV that’s distinguished by its luxury and latest accessories, American Coach Patriot reaches 20 miles per gallon, plus it comes with a rooftop solar charging system. Even in a smaller vehicle, you’ll find it has much to offer with a shower, lounge, wardrobe, and space for miniature kitchen appliances.

    6. Airstream Interstate Grand Tour Ext

    A top-seller for Class B diesel motorhomes, Airstream Interstate Grand Tour Ext is excellent for couples that decide to hit the road in their RV, and averages around 18 miles per gallon. Its Mercedes-Benz chassis comes with sleeping space, a fully equipped restroom, and sophisticated driving features.

    7. Coachmen Beyond

    Described as the Class B RV for anyone with an active lifestyle, Coachmen Beyond runs on a Ford chassis and can get 18 miles per gallon on longer trips. It comes with a bed or sofa, bath, sink, shower, galley, and frameless windows for taking in a view.

    8. Coachmen Nova

    If you’re going on an adventure in the great outdoors, Coachmen Nova is one of your best options for taking you there. Another Class B that can get 18 miles per gallon on the highway, it gets power from a RAM Pro Master chassis, while it comes with a bath and shower, full kitchen, and is solar power-compatible.

    9. Midwest Automotive Design Passage 170 Ext MDP4 Lounge

    Big on comfort and appearance, Midwest Automotive Design Passage 170 Ext MDP4 Lounge runs on about 18 miles per gallon. Giving RVers plenty of style, it comes with a fold-out lounge sofa, accessorized kitchen, HD TV and WiFi, and elegant furnishings.

    10. Roadtrek Sprinter RS Adventurous

    Great for RV duos, Roadtrek Sprinter RS Adventurous gets nearly 24 miles per gallon, taking you further on longer roadtrips than many other Class B vehicles. With a Mercedes-Benz chassis, it has a crafted interior design you can personalize, along with sofas, tables, a wet bath, wardrobe, kitchen, and entertainment center.

    11. Winnebago Revel

    Winnebago Revel has a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis and four-wheel drive, making it a great vehicle for off-road exploring and camping. On the road, you can reach 18 miles per gallon, and it also has a resourceful solar power system along with a bed, wet bath, and kitchen.

    12. Winnebago Rialta 22QD

    While Rialtas are older on the market, they’re still valuable and efficient, reaching nearly up to 22 miles per gallon with its tank. Winnebago Rialta 22QD is maneuverable and versatile, with enough space to relax on camping trips with small kitchen accessories, a dining table, restroom, and bed.

    13. Winnebago Travato 59G

    Another Winne that makes the Class B list, Winnebago Travato 59G makes the most of its smaller space while traveling up to 22 miles per gallon. While it’s great for fuel savings on RV trips, there is also enough room for a family of four with several beds, a small kitchen space with adjustable table, wet bath, raised floor, and double doors for accessibility. 

    Class C

    14. Coachmen Leprechaun

    In production since 1973, Coachmen Leprechaun is a leading model for Class C RVs, providing a power awning, backup cameras, and reaching 10 miles per gallon. As a large vehicle, it also has a spacious interior with crafted cabinetry and flooring, a queen bed, and full kitchen.

    15. Gulfstream Conquest

    Gulfstream Conquest is one of the best RVs you can get for a large family and reaches 10 miles per gallon on its Ford platform. It has multiple sleeping spaces, a wardrobe, restroom, dinette with fridge, entertainment space, and a skylight.

    16. Thor Motor Coach Tiburon Sprinter

    Smaller in size for its class, Thor Motor Coach Tiburon Sprinter compensates with fuel economy, as it averages 20 miles per gallon. In addition to its efficiency, it offers a dinette, large TV, multiple sleeping areas, restroom, and wardrobe.

    17. Tiffin Wayfarer

    Tiffin Wayfarer is a Class C made for voyaging and camping with a smaller party. Built with a Mercedes-Benz chassis and running on a tank that gets 14 miles per gallon, it comes with an outdoor awning, multiple beds, skylight, kitchen, restroom, and entertainment center.

    18. Toyota Dolphin

    First appearing on the market many years ago, some Toyota Dolphin makes are more retro in style but still running strong, with an ability to get 16 miles per gallon. A top choice if you’re looking to buy a used RV, it has overhead sleeping space, kitchen space, restroom amenities, and room for camping gear.

    19. Winnebago Navion

    As a diesel Class C that combines comfort with upscale amenities, Winnebago Navion seems to offer everything for all types of RVers. You can take it out for longer trips on the road as it maxes out at 18 miles per gallon on the highway, plus it has a solar power option if you decide to camp for several days.

    20. Winnebago View 24V

    Rounding out the list with yet another top model, Winnebago View 24V gets 17 miles to the gallon. Its luxury interior is equipped with with the amenities you expect from a Class C, but it’s also easy to drive with a reverse camera and voice control, and has a generator and solar power system to camp out.

    You get more out of fuel-efficient RVs when you hit the road for a big trip. These vehicles allow you to travel further, camp longer using less energy, spend less money at the pump, and reduce carbon emissions. If you’re ready to purchase your next vehicle, be sure to see all of the new and used RVs on the marketplace at RV Trader.

  • FMCA: How RVers Can Find Relief from High Fuel Prices

    FMCA: How RVers Can Find Relief from High Fuel Prices

    Both RV Trader and FMCA hear a lot from RVers about some of the biggest expenses they face at the campsite and on the road. Common costs include maintenance, repairs, tires, and general operating costs such as insurance. Then there’s fuel costs, which were already at or near the top of most RV owners’ list of major expenses even before the recent spike in gas prices.

    As we gear up to hit the road this spring, everyone’s pocketbooks may start to feel the pinch. It would be a shame to travel less, limit how far you go, or—worst of all—cancel your trips altogether. To help out RVers during this season of high gas prices, FMCA has come up with a list of suggestions on how you can save a little money when it comes to fueling up.

    Check Your RV Tire Pressure

    It’s important to make sure that your tires are inflated properly. Whether you have a motorhome, conventional travel trailer, or a fifth-wheel, all of your tires should be checked, including those on your towing/towed vehicle. The U.S. Department of Energy says you can improve your gas mileage by 0.6% on average—up to 3% in some cases—by keeping your tires inflated to the proper pressure. Under-inflated tires can lower gas mileage by about 0.2% for every 1 psi drop in the average pressure of all tires. An added bonus is that properly inflated tires are safer and last longer.

    Lower Your RV Weight

    While all RVs have weight limits that should be followed for safety reasons, you could also be saving yourself a little bit of pocket change by making sure you aren’t hauling around unneeded pounds. A lighter load is more cost efficient. So, it’s important to plan out what you are packing and where you are going. Maybe you can fill up on water when you get to your location. Do they have a grill or fire pit? Consider leaving yours behind. Also, make sure you are emptying your waste tanks regularly before hitting the road. This alone can take a few extra pounds off the weight of your RV.

    Download RV Apps

    Many different apps can help you save a little money on fuel prices. Apps such as GasBuddy and Gas Guru use your location to provide you with a list of current fuel prices in the area. These apps allow you to filter the list by fuel grade, price, payment, and distance to the filling station. Plus, GasBuddy and Gas Guru are free apps, and you don’t need to create an account.

    Utilize RV Fuel Discounts

    Many stores and fuel stations have loyalty programs that give you discounts on fuel for every dollar spent at their stores. Kroger, for example, is located in 38 states and has a loyalty program that helps you save on fuel every time you shop. You earn 1 point for every $1 spent. Once you reach 100 points, you receive $0.10 off a gallon up to so many gallons of fuel. Many other gas stations have similar programs!

    With an FMCA membership, you gain access to the TCS Fuel Discount Card, which can save you an average of $0.34 per gallon for diesel fuel at their in-network locations.

    Think Outside the (A/C) Box

    A clever trick that motorhome owners use is to run their rooftop A/C unit to cool down the RV interior before hitting the road. Staying hooked up to the campground electric as long as possible prior to departure and cooling the inside down allows you to avoid running the dashboard A/C (at least for a while) and to save a little fuel in the process. 

    Don’t own a motorhome? Then consider other ways of limiting the use of your vehicle’s A/C unit. Drive in the early mornings or late evenings when it’s cooler outside, or consider cracking open the windows when the opportunity presents itself.

    Use Your RV Cruise Control

    It’s simple: by using cruise control to set the pace, you can improve your overall fuel efficiency. This is because you are avoiding rapid acceleration, speeding, and frequent braking, which cause more fuel to be used in the driving process. Maintaining a set pace for your RV allows for an easy ride and fuel savings.

    We all like to keep our travel expenses as low as possible so that we can add miles and miles of more fun. With rising fuel prices, it will pay for us to slow down and enjoy the view a little more. Lowering our speed saves fuel and also reminds us to take time to enjoy the scenery. And that’s a good tip regardless of fuel prices. Also, don’t forget to utilize the resources offered with your FMCA membership.

    Now that you’re prepared to find relief from high gas prices, find your next RV at the leading online marketplace for RVs nationwide, RVTrader.com!

     

     

    FMCA educates, equips, and empowers RV owners in their journey to creating, experiencing, and benefiting from the outdoor lifestyle they dream of and deserve. FMCA is your ally to the outdoor lifestyle you love and enjoy.