For those who wants to live large on the road, I am sure owning a Class A diesel motorhome to live on the road is on of their biggest dreams.
With a much higher price compared to a rig that runs on petrol/gasoline, have you ever wondered why so many RV campers still choose a diesel pusher for their camping and road trips. Besides the personal preferences, there are also some good reasons for the choice of this recreational vehicle type. Let’s find out about those on this ultimate guide.
And if you have already decided on a diesel camper, RVing Insider will also give you a handpicked list of the best class A diesel motorhomes for the money in the easiest way possible along with the most common related questions at the end of the guide.
Not a lot of us can make the decision right away when it comes to choosing between diesel vs gas motorhomes, especially since most of us aren’t very knowledgeable when it comes to automobiles (we all have bigger things to concern about, right?). So we’re here to help you to save time and money choosing the most suitable diesel RV for your needs.
So, what are the best diesel motorhomes for the money (both new and used):
- Tiffin Phaeton 40IH Motorhome
- Thor Axis 24.1 Motorhome
- Coachmen Pursuit 29SS Motorhome
- Newmar Dutch Star 4369 Motorhome
- Winnebago Forza 34T Motorhome
- Winnebago Vista 29VE Motorhome
- Newmar Ventana 4369 Motorhome
- Thor Freedom Traveler A30
- Tiffin Allegro Breeze 31BR Motorhome
- Fleetwood Pace Arrow 33D Motorhome
Contents
- The Basics About Class A Diesel Motorhomes
- 10 Best Class A Diesel Motorhomes
- #1. Tiffin Phaeton 40IH Motorhome
- #2. Thor Axis 24.1 Motorhome
- #3. Coachmen Pursuit 29SS Motorhome
- #4. Newmar Dutch Star 4369 Motorhome
- #5. Winnebago Forza 34T Motorhome
- #6. Winnebago Vista 29VE Motorhome
- #7. Newmar Ventana 4369 Motorhome
- #8. Thor Freedom Traveler A30
- #9. Tiffin Allegro Breeze 31BR Motorhome
- #10. Fleetwood Pace Arrow 33D Motorhome
- FAQs About Diesel Pusher RV
The Basics About Class A Diesel Motorhomes
What Are Diesel Pushers?
Class A motorhomes (or motorized RVs – a.k.a RVs that you can drive) refer to the type of motorhomes that are the best-equipped, most expensive (a diesel pusher’s price can range from $250,000 to $600,000 on average) and the largest out of all the motorhomes/RVs.
This type of RV is typically 24 to 40 feet long which make you feel like you’re living in a home and you can still enjoy luxury features while road tripping.
Diesel pushers is another term that describes class A diesel motorhomes. There aren’t many things to clarify, besides the fact that these are part of a segment of class A motorhomes that run on diesel fuel and the diesel engine is located on the rear of the motorhome.
Related: Difference Between Class A vs Class C Motorhomes
Diesel Motorhome Pros and Cons
What is so different about diesel compared to gas-powered motorhomes? How well do they perform in general?
Pros of Diesel RV
The first thing that anyone who is the least bit knowledgeable about RVs or cars alike will tell you is that diesel engines are much more fuel-efficient than their gas-powered counterparts. Well, the reason behind that is the intrinsic property of diesel and gas.
Diesel just has more potential energy stored in it per gallon than gas, the same way different energy drinks have differing levels of taurine and caffeine.
Another thing is that most diesel RVs are better furnished inside out and have more finesse overall. You might feel more at home in these coaches than with gas-powered RVs, something you might not be aware of when checking out at the shops.
Also, a great advantage that comes with diesel RVs is that they are less frequently maintained (also more expensive to maintain) and have longer lifespans which make diesel class A motorhomes the best RVs for full-time living.
Cons of Diesel RV
The primary reason to look the other way when it comes to diesel RVs is of course the price range. The pros of diesel RVs are culpable, of course. Diesel stations are also rarer to find than gas stations.
First time RVers tend to buy cheaper gas RVs, while full-time Rvers might consider diesel RVs for better experience, although a better experience depends on many factors once you actually get to live in it for a prolonged period of time.
That is why before you choose hastily, you should consult long-time RVers or online sources for the best diesel motorhomes for the money in order not to regret your future choices.
10 Best Class A Diesel Motorhomes
All the points we said above are just to show you just how much of an exquisite machine a diesel pusher may be, and how hard it is to gauge and compare any one of these motorhomes to another. Now let’s take a look at some of these class A diesel RV reviews and see if you can pick out the one that might actually do it for you this time (and end this never-ending scour for the right RV).
Keep in mind that most class A diesel motorhomes are pretty expensive so run by your family and your wallet one more time. There are always the best (and in pristine conditions) used class A motorhomes to choose from.
#1. Tiffin Phaeton 40IH Motorhome
Specs:
- Exterior Length: 41’4’’
- Exterior Width: 8’5”
- GVWR: 39600 pounds
- Freshwater Capacity: 100 gallons
- Sleeping Capacity: 7
- MSRP: Starts at $495,404
Why we love it:
Tiffin makes the best floor plans I’ve ever seen. It’s got everything you would want from a high-class motorhome.
Everything in the Phaeton is easy to reach, it is comfortable to sleep in, and also gives you a reasonable cooking experience. You can already tell Tiffin is doing a great job from the design of the exteriors.
#2. Thor Axis 24.1 Motorhome
Specs:
- Exterior Length: 25’6”
- Exterior Width: 7’10”
- GVWR: 12500 pounds
- Freshwater Capacity: 42 gallons
- Sleeping Capacity: 5
- MSRP: Starts at $117,450
Why we love it:
This one is the smallest in terms of length on this list of best class A diesel motorhomes for the money.
If you want the best diesel RV under 30ft, then the Thor Axis will give you anything you need (aside from some of the lower quality features), from the driving experience to the nice bathroom, kitchen and the even the views that it can give your kids sitting on their bunk bed is an absolutely nice touch.
Overall, one of the best small class A diesel motorhomes.
You may also like: Smallest Class A Motorhomes
#3. Coachmen Pursuit 29SS Motorhome
Specs:
- Exterior Length: 30’3’’
- Exterior Width: 8’6”
- GVWR: 18000 pounds
- Freshwater Capacity: 50 gallons
- Sleeping Capacity: 8
- MSRP: Starts at $127,629
Why we love it:
How small and unfurnished can a 30 ft class A diesel motorhome be? Much less than you think.
With the high-quality layout that is equally beautiful, your family trip would never be the same again. It is very easy to drive, much like the ones on this list. It is also simple to use with plenty of storage.
#4. Newmar Dutch Star 4369 Motorhome
Specs:
- Exterior Length: 43’9”
- Exterior Width: 8’5.5”
- GVWR: 51000 pounds
- Freshwater Capacity: 105 gallons
- Sleeping Capacity: 8
- MSRP: Starts at $436,233
Why we love it:
The performance expectation for Newmar products is always high and so is the price range. Some people are against Newmar for their slow customer service, but the motorhomes are top-notch, so you have to decide.
For the dutch star, you will have all the features that make you feel at home (albeit a little bit more extravagant): 3 TVs, a lot of closets, convection microwaves, etc along with some upgrades to the control monitors that you will love.
#5. Winnebago Forza 34T Motorhome
Specs:
- Exterior Length: 35’6”
- Exterior Width: 8’5.5”
- GVWR: 26000 pounds
- Freshwater Capacity: 840 gallons
- Sleeping Capacity: 8
- MSRP: Starts at $258,445
Why we love it:
This coach is filled to the brim with features that you’d want. It has a great drive train and cruise control, and for the hard-working people out there: the bunk beds are convertible to a workstation.
It has a lot of room for guests and most importantly, it is a great living space for you and your family. Definitely one of the best diesel pusher motorhomes for the money.
#6. Winnebago Vista 29VE Motorhome
Specs:
- Exterior Length: 30’3”
- Exterior Width: 8’5.5”
- GVWR: 18000 pounds
- Freshwater Capacity: 70 gallons
- Sleeping Capacity: 7
- MSRP: Starts at $140,108
Why we love it:
This is another small RV that will blow your mind. Due to its small size, it can park anywhere you want. The best thing (that I think you will love) is the interior design choices, which are wood-covered, all the way through.
The dinette gives a small restaurant-like feel with large windows. There are some things I would change, but the Vista 29VE is undoubtedly a good purchase.
#7. Newmar Ventana 4369 Motorhome
Specs:
- Exterior Length: 43’10’’
- Exterior Width: 8’5.5”
- GVWR: 45600 pounds
- Freshwater Capacity: 105 gallons
- Sleeping Capacity: 8
- MSRP: Starts at $363,269
Why we love it:
This Newmar is also numbered 4369 but is much different from its counterpart. As a trade-off for its high price, it is equipped with modern features in the electronics and appliances department. Look at the size of this thing.
On the inside, it accommodates a master suite with a king-size bed and the bathroom has two sinks. The kitchen is also comfortable enough to make your life easy.
#8. Thor Freedom Traveler A30
Specs:
- Exterior Length: 31’9”
- Exterior Width: 8’3”
- GVWR: 18000 pounds
- Freshwater Capacity: 50 gallons
- Sleeping Capacity: 8
- MSRP: Starts at $130,800
Why we love it:
The Freedom Traveler is one of the best class A diesel motorhomes under 35 ft that you and your family can make weekend trips on.
It is nice and cozy with really easy controls that you can master from day 1, it also has a lot of power. The Freedom Traveler incorporates a huge slide to make your living area even more spacious.
#9. Tiffin Allegro Breeze 31BR Motorhome
Specs:
- Exterior Length: 31’6’’
- Exterior Width: 7’11”
- GVWR: 25500 pounds
- Freshwater Capacity: 70 gallons
- Sleeping Capacity: 6
- MSRP: Starts at $ 301,874
Why we love it:
What most people agree with us on is the rather “compact” size of the RV that can fit anywhere and adds to its maneuverability. It has ample storage for any kind of additional stuff you want on your next big adventure.
It is also noted to have all the benefits given to the larger competitors in the diesel pusher segment. Best thing you will notice about this RV is the comfortable control that is rarely in the spotlight for motorhomes. Definitely one of the best diesel pusher RVs.
#10. Fleetwood Pace Arrow 33D Motorhome
Specs:
- Exterior Length: 33’11”
- Exterior Width: 8’6”
- GVWR: 26000 pounds
- Freshwater Capacity: 77 gallons
- Sleeping Capacity: 8
- MSRP: Starts at $248,804
Why we love it:
The Pace Arrow 33D is very much like a small hotel room. The thing that I love is the comfort that the sofas and chairs provide, that alone sells this RV for me.
Besides, the kitchen space comes well-equipped with a double stove and an oven, also the double sink is very nice.
FAQs About Diesel Pusher RV
1. Is buying a diesel RV worth it?
As we mentioned before, diesel RVs are more likely to make you feel like home, so even if class A motorhomes aren’t an option, there are always class C motorhomes that will satisfy all your needs (also some class Bs are affordable, but not nearly spacious enough for my taste).
If you are a first time RVer, then don’t be too picky and go for something that resonates with your personality and don’t just judge the RV (or any vehicle) too quickly by the reviews that you see on the internet. Maybe a rugged RV is more your
style than a luxurious class A, you will never know.
2. Gas vs. Diesel motorhomes: What’s right for me?
If you are a guy who loves a comfortable alternative to a conventional home that has all the subtle features to make your life flourish (and also has ample money saved up) then diesel motorhomes are definitely for you.
Gas engines have 30% efficiency, while diesel engines run closer to 45%, so it is clear who takes the cake in fuel efficiency. In fact, efficiency is key to diesel motorhomes’ ongoing popularity. If you are still in a dilemma in this matter, then here’s a tip: just go with the flow.
3. How many miles does a diesel pusher RV last?
If you regularly maintain your diesel pushers, then it will have no problem reaching the average of 300000 miles. This figure is around 50% higher than that of the gas RVs due to the need for compression energy. However, if the diesel pusher is poorly maintained, then it will be hard to even reach 125000 miles, so don’t mistreat your RV in any circumstances.
4. How much does a diesel pusher cost?
A diesel pusher’s price can range from $250,000 to $600,000 on average. An outrageous price, don’t you think? But everything that is good comes for a price, the price for luxurious merchandise is just more ridiculous than the rest.
It is no different from going to a five-star resort, and you should be prepared for maintenance and other fees such as RV hook-ups, diesel, etc which might drive you crazy unless you have a fitting amount of money. Just search up the best class A diesel motorhomes for the money and see for yourself if they are actually worth your time.
5. Is buying an old diesel class RV a good idea?
Yes, certainly. If for some reason you just want a second-hand diesel RV, try to find one that is as close to its original conditions as possible. As always, find the best used class A motorhomes that you can find.
6. How much can a diesel pusher tow?
Diesel pushers are as capable of towing as any other motorhomes. As a matter of fact, thanks to the power that the diesel engine can provide, Class A diesel motorhomes can tow around 10,000-15,000 pounds, which is more than double the maximum that class A gas motorhomes are capable of. Well, the type of engine certainly plays a big part in this.
7. How to drive a diesel pusher motorhome?
If you aren’t familiar with driving a motorhome, then practice on open space until you get confident enough to drive on your own. It is akin to driving your standard-size cars, but your “hit box” is much wider than before. Practice makes perfect.
Some tips and advice that you will get from a lot of RV drivers out there:
+ Watch your speed and distance, if possible, drive at a slower pace than others. After all, class A motorhomes are huge.
+ Watch your back, if your RV doesn’t have a rear camera, then always be on the lookout, a blocked rear view might be a cause for accidents.
+ Be careful when you take right turns, since it is not initially obvious how the right front wheels turn. As a result, distance from the side of the vehicle is harder to judge as safe.
+ Be careful of the weather. Driving in snowy or icy conditions is taboo for RV owners. It is also recommended that you drive more slowly (or don’t drive at all) in windy conditions since they can mess with your control of the vehicle.
+ Keep a farther safe distance than when you drive your regular cars. Again, this is due to the size and weight of the class A motorhome that makes it take a longer time to come to a halt when braking.
