What Type of RV Gets the Best Gas Mileage?

When you’re on the road, fuel expenses add up. Before choosing a travel vehicle, it’s common to wonder which types of RVs get the best gas mileage to reduce costs.

Our team has compiled everything you need to know about RV gas mileage in this article to provide you with a thorough van life guide. That includes comparing the different RV classes, vehicle models, fuel types, and more. By the end, you’ll have a better understanding of which RV suits your needs for a more cost-effective and enjoyable van life experience.

What Is the Most Fuel-Efficient RV? 

The most fuel-efficient RV is the class B RV, also known as a camper van. These are some of the most compact RVs on the market. Compared to larger class A or C models, their smaller size means they require less power to run, making them significantly more fuel-efficient and budget-friendly when traveling. 

Camper vans usually get 13-18 MPG and average about 15.5 MPG. Ford Transit models are the most fuel-efficient camper vans that run on gasoline, averaging about 16 MPG. The other best gas mileage RVs in class B are Ram ProMaster (15.5 MPG) and Nissan NV Series (15 MPG). 

Ford Transit models are the primary camper vans for rent at Escape Camper Vans because they’re more fuel-efficient than other options. Plus, their streamlined designs make them very easy to use and drive. 

What Is the Average MPG for an RV?

All classes’ average MPG for RVs ranges from 8 to 15.5 MPG. Here’s a quick motorhome gas mileage chart so you can see how the average gas mileage breaks down by the RV’s class:

Overall, class B RVs vastly outperform larger class A and C RVs. Fuel consumption will add up quickly when traveling and on the road, so getting a travel vehicle that’s as efficient as possible is always a great idea, which is why many people lean toward camper vans over other options. For those looking for the smallest RV that you can rent, class B RVs are often the top choice due to their compact size, fuel efficiency, and ease of maneuverability.

How Many Miles Per Gallon Does a Class C RV Get? 

The typical class C RV gets about 7-12 MPG and averages about 9.5 MPG. However, some of the best gas mileage RVs in class C will reach 14-15 MPG on the highway (going around 65 MPH). Still, the best-performing class B RVs will significantly outperform on the road since they usually get around 17-19 MPG at 65 MPH. 

Class C motorhome gas mileage is lower since these vehicles are much bigger and heavier than class B RVs. Class C motorhomes are usually around 26 to 35 feet long and weigh about 10,000 to 12,000 pounds. On the other hand, class B RVs are generally around 17 to 25 feet long and weigh 6,000 to 8,000 pounds. Therefore, there’s a big energy difference needed to operate these vehicles. 

Aside from fuel efficiency, class C RVs’ larger footprint means they’re much more complicated to drive. They have less visibility around them, need to make wider turns, and are more challenging to park or maneuver through tight spaces. The average person not used to driving large vehicles will have a more significant learning curve with class C RVs, whereas with camper vans, most people can get in and drive just fine. 

Does a Diesel RV Get Better Mileage Than a Gas RV? 

In general, diesel-powered vehicles get slightly better gas mileage. For instance, Mercedes Sprinter camper vans run on diesel fuel and get an average of 18 MPG, compared to the 16 MPG average that Ford Transit camper vans get. 

However, when you compare diesel vs. gas RV mileage, there are other aspects you must consider. Diesel fuel is more expensive per gallon, so your costs are even out, even if diesel vehicles get slightly better gas mileage. You also need to use a specific gas pump for diesel fuel, which can be a bit of a hassle, depending on the gas station you go to. 

Most people find that a high MPG camper van that runs on regular gasoline is the better choice. The gas expense usually evens out, and it’s a more seamless experience since most people are used to filling up with regular gas.

A lot of class A RVs also run on diesel fuel. Diesel engines have more torque and power, which are often necessary in oversized vehicles like a class A RV. However, as you saw on the chart earlier, class A RVs still get the lowest average gas mileage. Even the best gas mileage RVs in class A only get up to around 12 MPG on the highway. Therefore, the diesel vehicle’s size still dramatically impacts how much fuel efficiency you can expect. 

Rent a Fuel-Efficient Class B RV from Escape Camper Vans

Escape Camper Vans has you covered when you need an affordable and fuel-efficient travel vehicle. Our uniquely hand-painted camper vans are among the most fuel-efficient options on the market, well-maintained, and provide a comfortable and convenient travel experience. 

Plus, they come with other helpful features, such as:

• Kitchen equipment to cook your meals
• Extra storage space
• Collapsible tables and benches
• A refrigerator 
• Sink with a water tank
• Queen size beds
• Bucket seats that you don’t have to collapse to make your bed
• And more

Ready to plan your trip? Reserve yours today, or contact us with any other questions.