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10 Different Types of Class B RVs

Class B RV on camp site.

I love the RV lifestyle and have been traveling on the highway in an RV for twenty years, full-time for the past seven. There is an excitement hard to explain about moving from one RV park to another, bringing new adventures at each stop.

The arriving at your destination and pitching a tent or setting up your tiny trailer days are long gone. Instead, the emphasis on RVs today is on style, comfort, and convenience, especially when traveling in a Class B RV. There are many new types of Class B RVs on the market, each more of a stately home than a camper.

Before we delve into the extensive list of Class B RVs, we should first understand what a Class B RV is and what differentiates it from other RVs.

What Are the Class B RV Types?

Class B RV on road.

There are two Class B RV types, Type B and Type B+, often called “Camper Vans.” They are easily identifiable since they look similar to ordinary vans. But they only ” look” like a van since they use the standard van model’s chassis. The chassis is modified to become a Class B RV or a more significant Class B+ RV type.

Regardless of a Class B or B+, these RV types have common characteristics like a raised or extendable roof to allow additional ceiling height to stand up. Usually, they will have functional cooking facilities, a queen-sized bed, and a wet bar. They will also typically have a damp bath combo with a toilet, sink, and shower. Now, let’s take a closer look at the difference between a Class B and B+ RV.

Class B RV type

An RV built on a van chassis is designated a Class B RV. There are several different van chassis to build the Class B RV, and the most popular are:

  • Mercedes Sprinter
  • Ram Promaster
  • Ford Transit

The Class B RV can have either a gas or diesel engine, typically 16 feet to 24 feet long. Some models may even be all-wheel or four-wheel drive. A Class B can weigh between 6,000 pounds to 11,000 pounds depending on the model and manufacturer.

The towing capacity is rated at 5,000 pounds when empty, although some older models may only be 3,000 pounds. The smaller motorized RV maximizes the interior space and can sleep two or be configured for additional sleeping accommodation, although with limited storage spaces.

Class B+ RV type

Although the Class B+ looks similar to the Class B RV since they share the same van cassis, they have some differences. A noticeable difference is that a Class B+ RV might have an extension over the cab. Class C RVs typically all have a cabover, a section for additional sleeping accommodation.

The Class B+ can have a cabover that  adds a lot functionality to house an entertainment system or is used for extra storage. The Class B+ RV is taller, more comprehensive, and longer than a Class B with an extension over the cab and may have one or more slides.

The typical Class B RV looks like a regular van with an extended, narrow profile. However, the B+ RV is noticeably wider, with a larger body, over-the-cab extension, and less van-shaped. Both types have a familiar van-shaped profile with higher roof lines powered by diesel or gas engines.

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What Are the Most Popular Class B Rvs?

These are some of the most popular Class B types of RVs found on the road today.

1. Advanced Class B RV

Advanced Class B RV on camp site.

The Advanced Class B RV company has been manufacturing Class B RVs in Willoughby, Ohio, since 2012 and built on the Mercedes Sprinter chassis. The Advanced Class B RV is offered in 144″, 170″, or an extended 170″ wheelbase. Among its notable features are:

  • Eight lithium battery packs with 828Ah storage
  • 3000-watt inverter
  • Wi-fi router

2. Airstream Class B RV

Airstream Class B RV on road.

Airstream, a subsidiary of Thor Industries, Inc., is manufactured in Jackson Center, Ohio. They have been manufacturing their Interstate Class B RV on a Mercedes Sprinter diesel chassis since 2004.

Depending on the model, the Interstate can seat from four to nine and sleep two, and the EXT model is 24 feet in length, seven feet in width, and ten feet high. The Interstate 19 4×4 Airstream is 19 feet and their smallest RV. Some notable Airstream Interstate features are:

  • Integrated cameras for maneuvering in tight places
  • Oversize refrigerator and freezer
  • Golf bag storage
  • Over 30 cu. ft. of rear storage
  • Air ride suspension
  • 20-22 mpg (after break-in)
  • GVWR: 11,030 lbs
  • Towing capacity up to 5,000 lbs
  • 24.5 gal. fuel capacity

3. American Coach Class B RV

American Coach Class B RV on road.

The Decatur, Indiana, coach manufacturer, American Coach, began producing Class B RVs in 2019. Their American Patriot line of coaches from the upper-end American Coach manufacturer, who are better known for their line of Class A motorcoaches.

The American Patriot line of Class B RVs is based on the Mercedes Sprinter chassis, featuring many upscale features. Notable American Coach Patriot features are:

  • Wet bath
  • Lagun adjustable and removable table
  • Power awning
  • Rear/side screen doors
  • 4×4 Drive train (option)
  • Air ride suspension (option)
  • GVWR: 11,030 lbs
  • Towing capacity up to 5,000 lbs
  • 24.5 gal. fuel capacity

4. Chinook Class B RV

Chinook Class B RV on camp site.

Based in Elhart, Indiana, Chinook RV is known as the “Sportscar of Motorhomes.” Chinook went into receivership in 2005 but was resurrected in 2013 and today manufactures the Chinook Bayside built on the Ford Transit Chassis and Countryside model made on the Mercedes Sprinter chassis.

They also recently introduced the new Summit Class B+ RV, which we will cover later. Some notable Chinook features are:

  • Auditory and visual safety assistance features
  • Composite flooring
  • Hand-rubbed high gloss custom woodwork
  • Air ride suspension (option)
  • 4×4 Drivetrain (option)
  • GVWR: 11,030 lbs
  • Towing capacity up to 5,000 lbs
  • 26 gal. fuel capacity

5. Leisure Travel Vans Class B RV

Manufactured in Winkler, Manitoba, Canada, for the past 50 years, the Leisure Travel Vans Class B RV is still a leader in the Canadian RV industry. They are also popular in the US and built on the Mercedes Sprinter 3500 dual-wheel chassis.

Known for great build quality, precise road handling, and providing more storage than other Class B RVs. Leisure Travel introduced the first slide out for the Class B industry and many other technical innovations. Notable features of Leisure Travel Vans are:

  • Dinette slide-out
  • Vacuum bonded aluminum frame
  • Ceramic macerator toilet
  • Powered awning with wind sensor
  • 3.6 kW Diesel generator
  • Inflatable front dinette mattress
  • Solar panels with Lithium batteries
  • GVWR: 11,030 lbs
  • Towing capacity up to 5,000 lbs
  • 24.5 gal. fuel capacity

6. Winnebago Class B RV

Winnebago Class B RV on camp site.

Based in Forest City, Iowa, and a leader in the RV industry since the ’50s, Winnebago has multiple entries in RVs, including Class A, Class B, and Class C. The Winnebago Class B models include the gasoline Solis and Travato and diesel Boldt and Era.

The gas models are built on the Ram Promaster platform, while the diesel models use the Mercedes Sprinter van chassis. The Pentastar VVT V6 gas models are the Solis and Travato, and the diesel Mercedes 3.0-liter V6 engine powers the Boldt and Era models. Winnebago is known for quality coaches and providing excellent customer service. Some notable Winnebago Class B features are:

  • Advanced all-weather insulation
  • Lithium-based Pure Advanced Energy System for extended power
  • Flex bed system for configurable beds
  • Advanced safety assistance features
  • GVWR: 11,030 lbs
  • Towing capacity up to 5,000 lbs
  • 24.5 gal. fuel capacity
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7. Regency Class B RV

Manufactured in Elkhart, Indiana, Regency RVs are built on either Ram ProMaster or Mercedes Sprinter chassis. The Regency Ultra model is based on the Mercedes Sprinter chassis and is 25′ in length. Handcrafted in luxury, the Regency Class B RV aims to make life on the road as enjoyable as possible with many upscale amenities and generous, well-laid-out storage areas.

The Ultra series is a serious competitor in the Class B RV market, easily customizable with tasteful yet luxurious appointments. Some notable Regency RV features are:

  • Power reclining seats with footrests
  • LED lighting
  • Externally accessible laundry chute
  • Exterior shower and water wash station
  • Luxury appliances and cabinetry
  • GVWR: 11,030 lbs
  • Towing capacity up to 5,000 lbs
  • 24.5 gal. fuel capacity

8. Coachmen Class B RV

Maroon Coachmen Class B RV on camp site.

Made in Middlebury, Indiana, since 1994, Coachmen Industries has manufactured over three-quarters of a million RVs. Known for producing several award-winning Class B RVs, Coachmen build their coaches on the RAM ProMaster and Mercedes chassis.

Their RAm ProMaster-based Nova won the RV News 2021 Best of Show award and Best Type B Motorhome awards. Their Class B coaches are focused on producing customized and comfortable coaches for the entire family. Notable features of the Nova Class B RV are:

  • Superior Rockwool R-15 installation
  • Solid hardwood cabinetry
  • 330 AH AGM batteries
  • Ranger Sky Pro WI-FI
  • Yakima EXO trailer hitch system
  • GVWR: 11,030 lbs
  • Towing capacity up to 5,000 lbs
  • 24.5 gal. fuel capacity

9. Pleasure-Way Class B RV

Pleasure-Way Class B RV on road.

Made in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada, the Pleasure-Way RV began in 1986 to provide quality Class B RVs for a growing and thirsty Class B market. The new Pleasure-Way REKON 4×4 Class B RV recently won the coveted “RVPro Best New Model 2022” award.

The new Rekon 4×4 RV is an excellent product designed to be as functional as it is rugged. The unique design of the REKON has the largest garage storage area and freshwater storage of any RV in its class. The Pleasure-Way Class B RV has many notable features:

  • A rearview camera system
  • Solarized off-grid power
  • Indoor/outdoor cooking options
  • Largest longitudinal bed in its class
  • Huge 124 cu/ft storage area
  • GVWR: 9,050 lbs
  • Towing capacity up to 5,000 lbs
  • 24.5 gal. fuel capacity

10. Winnebago Revel Class B RV

Winnebago Revel Class B RV on road.

Built on the robust, safety-friendly Mercedes VS30 Diesel Chassis, the Winnebago Revel Class B RV design is to be off the grid when needed. The Revel on-demand 4×4 drivetrain has optional BF Goodrich T/A K02 all-terrain tires and Method 701 wheels designed to run at low air pressure with superior heat resistance.

The unique Lithium Power System assures plenty of available power when out in the backcountry with supplemental power courtesy of solar panels. Some of the most notable Winnebago Revel Class B RV features are:

  • Power patio awning with Bluetooth controls
  • Outside fold-down table
  • Sturdy luggage rack with removable ladder
  • 125-amp-hour battery with a 2,000-watt inverter
  • GVWR: 9,050 lbs
  • Towing capacity up to 5,000 lbs
  • 24.5 gal. fuel capacity

What Are the Most Popular Class B+ RVs?

These are some of the most popular, larger Class B+ RVs available today. Class B+ RVs look similar to Class C RVs with cabover sleeping areas, but the Class B+ cabover area is for storage or entertainment systems.

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1. Thor Gemini AWD 23 TW Class B+ RV

Thor Gemini AWD 23 TW Class B+ RV on camp site.

Built on the Ford Transit chassis, the Thor Gemini AWD 23 TW is a Class B+ RV with added space and additional living amenities. With a unique dual-slide configuration, the Gemini 23 TW provides more living space and expands sleeping accommodations to three.

The AWD 23 TW has added storage thanks to the cabover area and many driver safety assistance features. Solar power system with 100-watt charging capability for off-grid experiences. The Thor Gemini AWD 23 TW Class B+ notable features are:

  • Privacy curtain for the sleeping area with TV
  • Bed and dinette slide-outs
  • All-wheel-drive system
  • 100-watt solar panel charger
  • Heated holding tanks
  • Ford Safety Systems package
  • GVWR: 11,000 lbs
  • Towing capacity up to 5,000 lbs
  • 26.4 gal. fuel capacity

2. Nexus RV Viper 27+ Class B+ RV

Made in Elkhart, Indiana, the Nexus RV Viper 27+ uses the Ford chassis with the new Ford 7.3L V8 engine. A more spacious Class B+ RV resulted from adding a bedroom and dinette slide-out. The Viper 27+ has two entertainment centers, one in the front cab-over section and the other in the back.

A third front swivel seat allows you to watch TV without being at the dinette table. Power for the coach is always available courtesy of a 4.0 kW generator and a 60-amp, 12-volt power converter. The Nexus Viper+’s most notable features are:

  • Front and rear entertainment system
  • Bedroom and dinette slide-outs
  • Full bath with shower
  • Third swivel seat for additional occupant
  • Lightweight, low alloy steel cage throughout
  • GVWR: 12,500 lbs
  • Towing capacity up to 7,500 lbs
  • 55.0 gal. fuel capacity

3. Phoenix USA Phoenix Cruiser 2910D

Phoenix USA Phoenix Cruiser 2910D on camp site.

The Phoenix USA Cruiser 2910D is made in Elkhart, Indiana (what’s else is new) and made with a heavy-duty Ford E-450 chassis powered by the excellent Ford 7.3L V8 gas engine. The Cruiser 2910D is one of the largest RVs on the road within the Class B+ or some Class C’s.

The additional Phoenix Cruiser 2910D length allows such amenities as a separate shower stall, slide-out queen bed and lounge areas, and two sitting areas. A reclining sofa and swivel chairs complement the functional layout. Some more notable features of Phoenix 2910D are:

  • Truma AquaGo or 6 gallon DSI water heater
  • 50-amp service with two 15,000 BTU A/C with heat pump
  • MotorRyde suspension
  • Solar panels and Battle Born lithium battery package
  • Full-size refrigerator
  • 30,000 BTU furnace
  • GVWR: 14,500 lbs
  • Towing capacity up to 7,500 lbs
  • 55.0 gal. fuel capacity

4. Chinook Summit Class B+ RV

Chinook Summit Class B+ RV on camp site.

The new Chinook Summit Class B+ RV promises traveling in luxury with plenty of space is promised by the new Chinook Summit Class B+ RV. The Summit has many desirable features built on the Mercedes Sprinter chassis with the V6 diesel engine. Chinook makes the Summit B+ RV with steel tubing for added strength and protection.

The Summit design is perfect for all-season camping with a Hushmat thermal and moisture barrier on the bottom of the RV. The 16″ OC truss-style aluminum after rook has fiberglass insulation for added protection from hot summer days or cold winter days.

Their superior insulation package positions the Summit B+ as the only Truma G perature testing in an environment specifically designed to evaluate the insulation properties of the RV. The Chinook Summit B+ RV has many excellent features, including:

  • Separated bathroom
  • Handcrafted build quality
  • Overcab cabinetry and storage
  • Powered auto-leveling system
  • Two sofas are convertible into a king-size bed
  • 400-watt solar panel charger
  • 600 Ahr battery and two alternators
  • Truma Combi-Plus heater system with integrated water heater
  • 30,000 BTU furnace
  • GVWR: 11,030 lbs
  • Towing capacity up to 7,500 lbs
  • 55.0 gal. fuel capacity