Best Class A Motorhomes

In the world of RVs, few have the amenities, features, and extravagance as that of Class A motorhomes. They are the pinnacle of RVs and if you've ever been in one, you know why.

If you're thinking of getting one, it will up your game no end. But which to get? Which are the best Class A motorhomes on the market? Not an easy answer, and the fact is that there's no out-and-out best, and the one that suits you is the best.

But of course, there are some of the best motorhome brands that make exquisite RVs, and we've compiled a list of what we think have all the features anything considered the best should have.

As well as reviewing the leading campers, we explain exactly what a Class A motor home is, and what you should be looking out for before you splash all your savings.

We've also added a comparison overview of the leading brands, and what differentiates a Class A from a Class B or a Class C motorhome. 

And of course, Class As are huge vehicles so we've added an advice section explaining how to drive one safely, how to level a Class A motorhome, how to change a tire, and how to winterize your motorhome. So, without further ado, let's learn all about Class A motorhomes.

What is a Class A Motorhome?

Class A motorhomes are the biggest and most extravagant type of RV. These motorhomes are a popular choice for full-timers due to their wide range of features, amenities, and spacious layouts. Sizes typically range between 26 and 45 feet long, although the average length is about 33 feet.

Class A motorhomes can run on diesel or gas and get approximately between 8 and 10 miles per gallon. Due to their size, they’re often built onto a commercial bus or truck chassis. More importantly, these giant luxury rigs can be challenging to drive and harder to park since many campgrounds have space limitations.

What Should I Look for When Buying a Class A Motorhome?

If you’re looking for one of the best Class A motorhomes, there are a few things you should consider. We’ve listed several important criteria below.

Affordability

Before you can start hunting for your ideal Class A motorhome, you need to determine your budget. By deciding how much you can spend on your rig, you’ll automatically narrow down your options. Keep in mind that some of the more affordable brands may sacrifice the quality of materials to offer a more competitive price.

Engine Type

There are pros and cons to both diesel and gas engines. A diesel rig will be more expensive but tend to have better torque, mileage, and longevity. They also require less service but perform better when used frequently. Gas is more popular and widely available in the country and is more affordable than diesel, but you’ll get fewer miles per gallon.

Length and Layout

How long do you want your rig to be? Longer motorhomes can be challenging to drive, and many campgrounds and national parks have length limitations. Exterior length doesn’t automatically mean more interior space either. The layout you choose can impact how spacious and comfortable a Class A RV feels. If need be, schedule an appointment with a dealer to inspect the actual layout before picking one.

Brand Quality

There are many excellent motorhome brands, each with its unique signature designs, affordability, and special amenities. Ensure that the brand offers the level of workmanship, quality, and customer service you want before deciding on a new RV. 

Amenities and Features

The best Class A motorhomes are meant to be like a home away from home, which is why they’re so popular with full-timers. Layouts can include multiple bathrooms, a washer-dryer combo, full, luxury kitchens, master suites and bunkhouses, and several other luxury features. Some are wheelchair accessible, so choose an RV that suits your lifestyle needs.

Review of the Best Class A Motorhomes

Below, we review a few of the best Class A motorhomes and highlight the features and layouts that make them unique.

Comparison Overview

Some motorhomes share similar features, while others differ significantly. Below, we take a brief look at the most common types and classes you’ll encounter.

Class A vs Class B Motorhome

There are many differences between these two types of RVs. CLass As are more designed for full-time living, and they’re often equipped with full bathrooms and kitchens. They also tend to be more luxurious with all the comforts of home. Consequently, these rigs are large, high, expensive, and have poor mileage.

Class B motorhomes are significantly smaller and are better for short road trips or dry camping. They have fewer amenities but are easier to drive and park, they get better mileage, and are significantly cheaper.

Class A vs Class C Motorhome

These motorhomes are similar. Class A and C RVs can have comparable amenities, layouts, and lengths. However, there are a few notable differences.

The main noticeable difference is the over-cab bunk that’s a trademark of Class C motorhomes. It also gets slightly better mileage than a Class A, depending on its size and engine type. 

Class A vs Class C Motorhome Safety

It’s essential to understand that a motorhome is only safe if driven by a responsible and skilled driver. That’s especially true for Class A coaches, which are significantly bigger and heavier. A Class C is less likely to roll since it’s closer to the ground, while the larger rigs take quite a beating in heavier winds.

Another difference between the two models is airbags, something Class A motorhomes don’t have. RV accidents’ biggest causes are speeding, high winds, short stopping distances, and overtired drivers. If you perform regular maintenance, drive carefully, and avoid poor conditions, you should be fine.

Class A Motorhome vs Fifth Wheel

These two types of RVs have several similarities, but there are some things each type does slightly better than the other.

While both have comfortable furniture, fifth wheels tend to have residential-style furnishings, making them feel more like home. However, it uses up a lot more floor space and is quite a bit heavier, adding to the weight of your RV. A fifth wheel is also generally a little easier to drive and has a better turning radius than most Class A motorhomes. 

If it’s space you want, a fifth wheel may suit you better. They have several large slide-outs, while those on a Class A rig are narrower to maintain balance. However, it’s more useful when you’re on the road. Unsurprisingly, Class A is also easier to set up, and it’s just as easy to pack up and hit the road.

Deciding between these two types of RVs will primarily come down to whether you prefer a tow or a drivable motorhome and the few minor differences in amenities.

Entegra vs Newmar

Entegra initially manufactured only Class A motorhomes before expanding their range. Thanks to their parent company, Jayco, Entegra has a similar 2-year warranty and 5-year warranty and offers roadside assistance. As you’d expect, the brand offers the same top-quality, durable construction, luxurious interiors, and excellent customer service.

Choosing between Newmar and Entegra will come down to your preferred features. For example, Newmar’s Comfort DriveTM steering system is a big pro for many new owners. However, Entegra’s diesel range is known for providing quiet, smooth driving experiences.

Winnebago vs Tiffin

If you’re looking for a luxurious Class A motorhome with master-crafted interiors, excellent warranties, sturdy construction, and fantastic customer service, you can’t go wrong with Tiffin. However, all these benefits come with a rather hefty price tag.

Winnebago is one of the most well-known and much-loved motorhome brands, manufacturing everything from Class A RVs to Class B vans and camper pop-tops. Like Tiffin, the company also makes high-quality motorhomes with various features and layouts. However, their Class A range is significantly less expensive.

Newmar vs Tiffin

Newmar and Tiffin are both known for having high-end, top-quality Class A motorhomes that come with various luxuries and amenities. You’ll also be able to choose from multiple layouts, add-ons, and décor customizations. Both brands offer similar features and models, with the expensive price-tags to match.

Newmar’s Comfort DriveTM steering system might appeal to you if you’ve never owned one of these rigs before. It was designed to help new drivers have better control over their RVs. On the other hand, Tiffin is well-known for its excellent masterwork craftsmanship and climate control system.

Class A Motorhome Driving Tips

Driving a Class A motorhome is like driving a large truck. Every owner should know a few essential things to minimize their risks and have an enjoyable journey, so if you're new to driving a Class A, here's a few tips for you to consider.

Braking

Air brakes can take anywhere between 0.5 and 1 second to be applied. It’s an eternity if there’s an emergency and you need to stop quickly, so watch your following distance. It’s also vital to keep an eye on your pressure gauge. If the air pressure is low, pull over immediately. If too much air is lost, your motorhome will brake immediately, regardless of your current speed.

Speed

Many states have different speed limits for regular and large vehicles, and you’ll need to keep an eye out for those. It’s a good idea to drive somewhat slower since Class A motorhomes take longer to stop and are harder to control.

Height

While you shouldn’t run into any low bridges on expressways, most city streets and country roads are a different story. Watch for these because you’ll be financially responsible for any damage you cause.

Weather

While you can drive in wet or somewhat stormy conditions, there are occasions you might want to pull over instead. Crosswinds can make it extremely difficult to keep control, and it’s highly recommended you don’t drive during a snowstorm.

How To Level a Class A Motorhome

The process for leveling a Class A home is similar if a little trickier than for other classes.

Step 1

Find a good spot with the firm ground to park. Most campsites will have a hard standing pitch, but others may only have grass pitches, and you don’t want your motorhome to sink into mud if there’s rainy weather.

Step 2

Make sure you have durable leveling ramps. Avoid any cheap plastic variations, as they may crack under the weight of the motorhome. Place and kick them into position – do not let someone hold them in place.

Tip

You can put your ramps on larger leveling pads to help spread the weight and avoid sinkage. A big Class A rig can cause hot asphalt to compress, unbalancing the RV.

Step 3

Put a bubble level on your rear bumper and one by the driver’s door or a counter. You need to balance the RV side-to-side and front-to-back.

Step 4

Drive onto your ramps and start leveling out your motorhome. Check the bubbles to see if you’re perfectly balanced. Remember to check that your fridge, oven, and shower pan are level as well.

Step 5

Set the parking brake and chock your wheels. You can put down stabilizing jacks if needed, with blocks to prevent them from sinking.

Make sure that you don’t lift your wheels off the ground, especially your rear wheels. You’ll lose braking and may bend one of your jacks.

Some of the best Class A motorhomes have an automatic leveling system. You’ll use a similar process as laid out above before using it to make the last few adjustments to get the best results.

How To Change the Tire on a Class A Motorhome

A flat tire can be very inconvenient when you’re on the open road in your 30-foot rig, and you might be tempted to change it quickly so that you can get back on the road.

Many online blogs explain how to use your leveling jacks to raise the motorhome high enough to change your tires. We advise against following these steps for a Class A rig. At best, you might damage the jacks or the motorhome. At worst, they might give in, resulting in a collapse that can cause serious injury or death. 

Many owner’s manuals will give you the following advice:

If you experience a flat while driving, slowly decreases your speed and move to a safe spot on the side of the road.

Contact your roadside assistance provider or a qualified and approved service facility for help.

When assistance arrives, make sure that they’ve read or are familiar with the Chassis Guide supplied with your RV. Also, ensure that they tighten the lug nuts to the proper torque.

Remember, a Class A motorhome is, essentially, a large 16- to 20-ton truck. It’s important to always follow the safe, appropriate steps.

How to Winterize a Class A Motorhome

Winter can be hard on an RV, and it’s essential to winterize your motorhome to protect the expensive plumbing and fixings so it's more protected while you're not using it.

Water filters

Start by removing any water filters since some chemicals can damage them. You can also check if the filters need to be removed.

Black and Gray Water Tanks

Letting the waste sit in these tanks can breed harmful bacteria, while the frozen water can cause plumbing issues. Drain both and then clean them with the appropriate chemicals.

Water Heater and Lines 

These also need to be drained. Ensure that the water heater is cool and that you release the pressure before draining it. Additionally, you need to bypass your water heater since antifreeze can damage it.

Antifreeze

Only use RV antifreeze that’s made from propylene glycol. Other types, like ethanol-based chemicals, can taint your supply or damage fixings. Close all faucets when preparing to pump the antifreeze through your motorhome’s plumbing. You can also pour some down the drain of each sink.

While winterizing is primarily done before or during the colder seasons, it’s also a good idea to go through these steps if you’re storing your RV for any significant time.

People Also Ask - Best Class A Motorhomes FAQs

You may still have a few questions, especially if you’re still unsure about buying a Class A motorhome. Here are a few common ones we’ve encountered that may help you decide.

Are Class A Motorhomes Safe?

Most high-quality Class A motorhomes are sturdy and durable, but you should pay attention to the RV’s wheelbase ratio before you buy. The “safety” of Class A depends on the skill and attitude of its driver. That’s why many new owners are encouraged to spend time learning how to handle a vehicle of that size before traveling far in one.

How Tall Is a Class A Motorhome?

Class A motorhomes typically range between 11 and 13 feet in height. With the addition of an air conditioning unit or satellite dish, it may be even taller. Some states have height restrictions, so pay attention to the legal requirements before traveling somewhere.

How Wide Is a Class A Motorhome?

The standard width for most Class A motorhomes is about 102 inches. However, the size may vary depending on the state, as some have a maximum limit of 96 inches.

What Kind of Gas Mileage Does a Class A Motorhome Get?

Even the best Class A motorhomes aren’t known for getting excellent mileage. Typically, these RVs get between 8 and 10 miles per gallon, depending on their size and engine type. Diesel engines may get a few more miles per gallon.

Do You Need a Special License to Drive a Class A Motorhome?

If your rig is under a certain weight, you might not need a special license. However, it depends on your state. Since Class A motorhomes are typically heavier than the limit, you’ll likely be required to get a commercial or a non-commercial special driver’s license.

The Best Class A Motorhomes - Luxury RVs

When you’re looking for a new Class motorhome, it’s essential to decide how you’ll determine the right one for you. Affordability, engine type, length, spaciousness, quality, and amenities differ between models, and not all the best Class A motorhomes will match your needs.

Take the time to inspect and test various models until you find your dream home on wheels. But we are sure, if you go for a Class A rig, you will absolutely love it. It epitomises luxury on the road.

While there are many good quality rigs not made our list, we do recommend all of the above, and if you go for one, please share your experiences with us. Happy camping!