Top Class B RV Manufacturers: Complete Guide for Buyers

Class B RVs—also known as camper vans—have seen a major surge in popularity among solo travelers, couples, and digital nomads. Compact, self-contained, and surprisingly versatile, these small RVs offer a balance between drivability and comfort that larger motorhomes like Class C or Class A motorhomes can’t match.

Whether you’re looking to buy a Class B RV new or explore used camper va ns for sale, this guide breaks down the leading Class B RV manufacturers in the U.S., their unique offerings, and how they compare in pricing, design, and performance.

What Is a Class B RV? Understanding This Compact RV Type

A Class B motorhome is a van-based recreational vehicle built on a full-size van chassis—typically the Ram ProMaster, Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, or Ford Transit. These compact RVs are gaining market share, with Class B motorhomes now accounting for approximately 20% of the $25 billion U.S. RV market as of 2023. Unlike Class C RVs, these Class B models retain their original van shape, making them easier to drive and park.

Features typically include:

A bed or convertible sleeping area
Compact kitchen with standard equipment in its class
Wet bath or cassette toilet
Dinette or lounge area
Water, power, and HVAC systems

Often 20 feet long or shorter, a Class B camper van is ideal for weekend getaways, full-time solo travel, or stealth camping. Many digital nomads find this RV lifestyle fits their need for mobility without sacrificing the comforts of home.

Why Choose a Class B RV? Key Benefits and Use Cases

Choosing a Class B RV means opting for maneuverability, fuel efficiency, and ease of storage. These Class B motorhomes can fit in standard parking spaces and under most height restrictions—something larger Class C motorhomes can’t always do.

Top advantages include:

Better fuel economy (14–22 mpg)
Easier to drive than larger Class C RVs
Great for stealth camping in urban areas
Simple setup and teardown
Lower maintenance compared to larger motorhomes

Class B camper vans are especially popular with van life enthusiasts, digital workers, and retirees. Recent ownership data shows that 66% of Class B RV owners are male and 33% are female, with a growing number of solo travelers and couples driving demand for compact, high-function camper vans. If you’re debating between a new or used option, these compact RVs offer reliable flexibility. But also if you find standard Class B models a bit too compact, but still want something easy to drive, a Class B Plus RV offers more interior room and amenities without fully stepping into Class C size.

Best Class B RV Manufacturers in the U.S.

Here’s a look at the top manufacturers of Class B recreational vehicles. Each has a unique approach to layout, pricing, and chassis configuration.

Airstream

Airstream’s Interstate series defines the brand’s premium Class B van experience. These camper vans on the Mercedes chassis deliver upscale amenities in a compact footprint.

Models: Interstate 19, Interstate 24X, Atlas
Chassis: Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
Price Range: $290,000 – $314,000
Known For: Luxury Class interiors, Sprinter RV builds, sleek cabinetry

Winnebago

These are quality Class B motorhomes, ideal for those seeking years of luxury touring

Chassis: Ram ProMaster, Ford Transit, Mercedes Sprinter
Price Range: $140,000 – $254,000
Known For: Several models of Class B motorhome, broad dealer access, affordability

From B vans like the Travato to more rugged options like the Revel built on the Mercedes Sprinter 2500, Winnebago has something for every traveler.

Thor Motor Coach

Thor Motor Coach offers Class B gas models that are budget-friendly and tech-forward.

Models: Sequence, Tellaro, Dazzle, Twist
Chassis: Built on the Ram ProMaster
Price Range: $128,000 – $155,000
Known For: Bold design, smart floor plans, dependable performance

Thor focuses on functional features that elevate your campervan experience.

Coachmen

Part of Forest River, Coachmen RV builds reliable, well-insulated Class B campers like the Nova.

Chassis: Ram ProMaster
Price Range: $110,000 – $191,000
Known For: Simplicity, low noise interiors, practical layouts

Ideal for those new to the RV lifestyle, Coachmen’s Nova is a solid choice among Class B motorhomes.

Roadtrek

Roadtrek is one of the oldest Class B RV manufacturers, building Class B RVs since the 1990s.

Models: Zion, Play, Chase, Pivot
Chassis: Ram ProMaster, Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
Price Range: $122,700 – $217,000
Known For: Off-grid features, lithium battery setups, winter readiness

These camper vans give you excellent range and reliability whether you’re in the desert or the snow.

Pleasure-Way Industries

A boutique Canadian manufacturer, Pleasure-Way offers custom Class B RVs with luxurious interiors.

Models: Ascent, Plateau, Ontour, Tofino
Chassis: Built on the Mercedes Sprinter and Ford Transit
Price Range: $95,000 – $190,000
Known For: Handcrafted cabinets, quiet driving experience, years of luxury

Their conversion vans blend refinement with practical upgrades like solar prep and advanced battery systems. Some manufacturers also provide the option to order directly from the factory, which can offer more customization and transparency in the buying process.

Comparison of Leading Class B RV Brands

To help narrow down your options, here’s how top brands compare across pricing, interior features, and mechanical specs.

Price Ranges and Value

Manufacturer	Entry Price	Premium Price	Chassis Types
Winnebago	$140,000	$254,000	Sprinter, ProMaster, Transit
Airstream	$290,000	$314,000	Sprinter
Thor Motor Coach	$128,000	$155,000	ProMaster
Roadtrek	$122,700	$217,000	Sprinter, ProMaster
Coachmen	$110,000	$191,000	ProMaster
Pleasure-Way	$95,000	$190,000	Sprinter, Transit

Winnebago and Thor offer broader value ranges, while Airstream and Pleasure-Way occupy the luxury end.

Interior Features and Floorplans

Winnebago: Solar prep, pop-tops, wet baths, ADA-accessible options
Airstream: High-gloss cabinetry, Ultraleather seating, multiplex control
Roadtrek: Standard solar panels, large fresh tanks, off-grid comfort
Pleasure-Way: Seamless cabinetry, rear lounge conversions, insulated interiors
Thor/Coachmen: Efficient kitchens, slide-out options, flexible dining layouts

Each brand has unique layout strengths—some prioritize sleeping comfort, others, workstations or storage.

Chassis Types and Engine Options

Ram ProMaster (FWD): Low floor, easy service, cost-effective
Mercedes Sprinter (RWD/AWD): Luxury, tech-rich, expensive to maintain
Ford Transit (AWD available): Newest upgrades, quieter cab, growing popularity

Your choice of chassis affects fuel economy, service availability, and drivability.

Luxury Class B RV Manufacturers Worth Exploring

For buyers who prioritize bespoke builds and top-tier interiors, these luxury brands go beyond mainstream RV manufacturing.

Grech RV

Grech RV builds high-end Sprinter conversions with an emphasis on fit and finish.

Chassis: Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
Models: Turismo, Strada, Terreno
Price Range: $230,000 – $280,000
Known For: Hand-stitched upholstery, polished interiors, luxury feel

Ideal for buyers seeking the ultimate touring experience without upsizing to a Class A.

Advanced RV

Advanced RV produces custom, made-to-order Class B motorhomes with complete personalization.

Chassis: Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
Price Range: Starts at $300,000+
Known For: Custom engineering, lithium power systems, medical-grade air filtration

Buyers work directly with designers to create a van tailored to their exact lifestyle needs.

Tips for Choosing the Right Class B RV Manufacturer

Your RV’s manufacturer will influence long-term satisfaction, service access, and resale value. Here’s what to look for before buying an RV.

Warranty and After-Sales Service

Minimum standard: 1-year limited warranty on build
Preferred brands: Offer 2–3 year warranties with extended service plans
Important note: Chassis warranties are separate (e.g., Mercedes, Ford)

Choose brands known for responsive customer support and comprehensive coverage.

Dealer Network and Availability

Winnebago and Thor have nationwide dealer networks, ensuring easy access to parts and service.
Airstream and Coachmen have moderate coverage, often through authorized partners.
Boutique brands like Advanced RV may offer limited geographic availability, requiring travel for delivery or service.

A larger dealer network ensures easier warranty claims and maintenance.

Reviews and Customer Feedback

Look for feedback on build quality after the first couple of years, how responsive the support team is, and how easy it is to get warranty repairs handled.
Forums, YouTube reviews, and RV Facebook groups offer real-world insights

Don’t rely on brand prestige alone—owner experiences often tell the full story.

Before finalizing your choice, it’s worth knowing things to avoid before buying an RV—from hidden maintenance pitfalls to overlooked layout issues that could affect long-term comfort.

Final Thoughts: Which Class B RV Manufacturer Is Best for You?

Choosing the right Class B RV manufacturer comes down to how you plan to use your van, what level of comfort you expect, and how much you’re willing to spend.

Winnebago and Coachmen are great options if you’re looking for widespread dealer support, diverse floor plans, and models that fit a range of budgets.
If luxury touches, sleek cabinetry, and refined finishes matter to you, Airstream and Pleasure-Way deliver a high-end travel experience with strong brand reputations.
Adventurers who prioritize solar systems, lithium batteries, and all-season readiness should consider Roadtrek for its off-grid capabilities.
For buyers who want a truly personalized, top-tier build and don’t mind the price tag, boutique brands like Grech RV and Advanced RV offer unmatched craftsmanship and customization.

Regardless of which brand you choose, owning a Class B RV brings a new level of freedom—and maintaining that freedom means storing your RV safely and accessibility when not in use.
That’s where trusted RV storage providers like RecNation come in, offering secure, flexible storage solutions designed specifically for van lifers and motorhome owners who need reliable access between adventures.

Ultimately, the best RV for you is one that fits your lifestyle now, but also supports how you want to travel next.

FAQ

What is the best Class B RV brand for first-time buyers?

For first-time buyers, Winnebago and Coachmen are among the best choices. These brands offer a wide range of models with user-friendly features, lower price points, and strong dealer support. Models like the Winnebago Travato or Coachmen Nova balance drivability, functionality, and affordability.

Which Class B RV manufacturer offers the best off-grid features?

Roadtrek stands out for off-grid camping. Their models often include standard solar panels, large lithium battery systems, and expanded freshwater tanks, making them suitable for boondocking. Pleasure-Way also includes optional off-grid upgrades in models like the Ontour and Plateau.

Are Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vans better than ProMaster or Transit for Class B RVs?

Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vans offer advanced safety systems, AWD capability, and a luxury driving experience, making them popular for premium builds like Airstream and Grech RV. However, Ram ProMaster vans are more affordable, front-wheel drive, and easier to service, while the Ford Transit offers modern tech and optional AWD, appealing to value-conscious buyers.

How long do Class B RVs typically last?

With proper maintenance, a quality-built Class B RV can last 15 to 20+ years. Brands like Airstream, Pleasure-Way, and Roadtrek are known for longevity due to superior construction materials and attention to detail. Routine upkeep, especially on seals, appliances, and mechanical components, is key to extending lifespan.

Do Class B RV manufacturers provide warranties?

Yes, most Class B RV manufacturers provide a limited warranty (typically 1–3 years) on construction and components. Chassis warranties are offered separately by the van maker (e.g., Mercedes-Benz, Ford, or Ram). Some manufacturers like Winnebago and Pleasure-Way also offer extended warranty options or transferable coverage.