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Gas Mileage on Motorhomes: Ultimate Guide for 2025

Fuel efficiency should be a top priority when buying a motorhome, alongside comfort and layout. Rising fuel costs and running expenses can add up quickly. This guide will help you understand motorhome gas mileage, compare different classes, and discover practical tips to improve fuel efficiency so you can travel further for less.  

What’s The Average Fuel Mileage For Motorhomes (MPG)?

What’s The Average Fuel Mileage For Motorhomes?

The average motorhome gas mileage (MPG) depends on factors like size, weight, and engine type. Larger motorhomes generally use more fuel, while smaller models like campervans offer better efficiency. Here’s an example of how fuel varies based on engine type:  

  • American petrol motorhomes: Average 6-10 MPG  
  • European diesel motorhomes: Average 25-35 MPG  

Diesel motorhome gas mileage is typically higher. That’s because diesel engines are more fuel-efficient than petrol. On average, smaller, sleeker motorhomes will outperform larger, boxier ones.  

What is the Fuel Mileage for Different Classes of Motorhomes?  

Motorhomes fall into three main classes: A, B, and C. Each offers a different balance of size, comfort, and fuel economy. Let’s look at each in turn, starting with:  

Class A Motorhome Gas Mileage  

Class A motorhomes are the largest and least fuel-efficient of the three classes. The average MPG for a European Class A motorhome is around 25 miles per gallon. Of course, larger American RVs will use even more gas, since they weigh more.   

Let’s look at a few examples of how MPG varies per model:   

  • Hymer B534: 26 mpg  
  • Rapido 8094DF: 23 mpg  
  • Pilote Galaxy G600: 26 mpg  
  • Burstner Elegance i821: 18 mpg  

Class B Motorhome Mileage   

Class B motorhomes, also known as campervans, offer the best gas mileage on motorhomes. Compact, streamlined, and lightweight, they’re perfect for fuel-conscious travellers. The average mileage for a Class B motorhome is around 30-40 miles per gallon.  

The reason the class B is the best gas mileage motorhome is its aerodynamic design. In other words, these vehicles require much less power to maintain speed. Some examples of popular Class B motorhomes and their mileage include:  

  • VW Camper King: 39 MPG  
  • Ford Custom Nugget: 40 MPG  
  • Autosleeper Kingham: 28 MPG  

Class C Motorhome Gas Mileage  

Class C motorhomes sit between Class A and B. Their mid-sized build offers more living space than Class B without sacrificing too much fuel efficiency. The average mileage for Class C motorhomes hovers between 18-30 miles per gallon.  

Models with sleek designs tend to perform better. On the other hand, those with an over-cab sleeping area face more wind resistance. Some examples of popular models include:  

  • Elddis Autoquest 115: 29 MPG  
  • Rollerteam Autoroller 746: 24.5 MPG  
  • Swift Bolero 683: 27 MPG  

Class B Motorhome Gas Mileage

Which Motorhomes Get the Best Gas Mileage?  

Wondering which motorhome will give you the best value in terms of gas mileage? Class B motorhomes always come out on top. Their smaller size, aerodynamic design, and efficient engines make them unbeatable in fuel economy.  

In second place are Class C motorhomes. They provide a compromise between comfort and fuel efficiency. In last place, Class A motorhomes have the lowest fuel economy due to their size and weight. If fuel efficiency is your priority, you should probably go for a van with good gas mileage, like a Class B campervan.  

Factors That Affect Gas Mileage on Motorhomes  

If you’re wondering “when is fuel consumption at its highest” you should know that size isn’t the only factor that impacts MPG on motorhomes. You’ll need to contend with all sorts of elements apart from size, like driving patterns, weather, and even tire pressure! Let’s go through all the different factors, starting with the most obvious:  

Motorhome Weight and Size  

Heavier motorhomes require more power to move, reducing fuel efficiency. A fully loaded motorhome places greater strain on the engine, causing it to burn more fuel. Those large, boxy designs we know and love might provide more living space, but they also create extra wind resistance, increasing drag as you drive.   

This combination of weight and poor aerodynamics can quickly drain your fuel tank. This is especially applicable for long journeys or hilly terrain. Unfortunately, both are guaranteed if you’re an adventurous motorhome owner!  

Choosing a smaller, lighter model is one of the easiest ways to improve fuel efficiency. Downsizing reduces the strain on your engine, allowing it to perform smoothly. If downsizing isn’t an option, pack smartly to lighten the load. Any reputable motorhome weights guide will tell you that every kilogram counts when it comes to fuel efficiency.  

Driving Behaviour and Speed  

How you drive has a direct impact on gas mileage on motorhomes. Maintaining a steady speed is recommended, with 55-60 mph being the sweet spot for optimal MPG. Driving faster increases wind resistance, which forces your engine to work harder and burn more fuel.   

Aggressive driving habits will do you no good. For example, sudden accelerations, sharp braking, and weaving through traffic will lower fuel economy dramatically. Above all, consistency is key.   

Using cruise control on long, flat stretches of road can help you avoid unnecessary speed fluctuations. If you’re driving in areas with heavy traffic or stop-and-go conditions, plan ahead to find alternate routes with smoother flow. By the way, staying mindful of motorhome speed limits not only keeps you safe but also saves fuel, helping you get more mileage out of your tank
What Factors Affect the Gas Mileage of a Motorhome?

Tire Pressure and Maintenance  

Tyres play a surprisingly big role in fuel efficiency. Under-inflated tyres increase the amount of friction between the tyre and the road, which forces the engine to work harder to keep the motorhome moving. Even a slight drop in pressure can have a noticeable impact on MPG, especially on longer trips.  

With that in mind, remember to check your tyre pressure regularly, especially before setting off on long journeys. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommended pressure levels for both fully loaded and unloaded conditions. Beyond tyre care, regular motorhome maintenance (including oil changes, air and fuel filter replacements, and engine tune-ups) will keep your vehicle running efficiently.   

In addition, don’t overlook scheduled motorhome habitation service checks! These checks ensure all systems are functioning as they should be. In the long run, being on the ball like this might prevent fuel wastage.   

Weather Conditions  

Weather can have a major effect on your motorhome’s gas mileage. Cold weather, in particular, can significantly reduce fuel efficiency because the engine takes longer to warm up and operates less efficiently. At temperatures as low as -5°C, your MPG can drop by up to 15% compared to driving in warmer conditions like 25°C.  

Short trips during winter are especially inefficient, as the engine doesn’t have enough time to reach its optimal operating temperature. City driving makes this worse, with frequent stops and starts consuming additional fuel. If you plan to travel in colder months, try to combine errands and minimise short journeys to get the most out of your tank.  

Turbocharging and Direct Fuel Injection  

Modern diesel motorhomes often come equipped with turbochargers and direct fuel injection systems, both of which improve engine efficiency and performance. Turbocharging allows engines to produce more power without increasing fuel consumption by compressing air before it enters the engine. This results in improved combustion and better mileage.  

Direct fuel injection complements this process by delivering precise amounts of fuel directly into the combustion chamber at high pressure. This reduces waste and ensures fuel is used efficiently. European motorhomes, which frequently utilise this technology, tend to achieve better MPG compared to their American petrol counterparts.   

Towing a Car or Trailer  

Towing might be practical for extending your travel options, but it’s not great for your motorhome’s fuel efficiency. Even lightweight cars, trailers, or caravans add extra weight, which increases the strain on the engine. This leads to higher fuel consumption, particularly on steep inclines or uneven terrain.  

If towing is unavoidable, take steps to minimise the impact. Choose lightweight vehicles or trailers to reduce the load. Ensure your motorhome’s tyres and towing equipment are properly maintained, as issues like under-inflated tyres or misaligned tow bars can add to fuel inefficiency.   

Тowing a Car Behind Your Motorhome

Can Air and Fuel Filters Impact MPG?  

Yes, dirty air and fuel filters restrict airflow and fuel flow, causing the engine to strain and consume more fuel. Over time, this reduced efficiency can lead to higher fuel costs and poor engine performance. Regularly cleaning or replacing filters keeps the engine running smoothly and ensures the optimal air-fuel mix, which directly improves fuel economy.  

Motorhome owners should inspect their filters as part of routine maintenance, especially before long trips or after driving in dusty conditions. By keeping your filters clean, you not only enhance MPG but also extend the life of your motorhome’s engine. Remember to stay on top of this (it’s just as important as having regular motorhome habitation service checks).  

Diesel vs Petrol: Which Offers Better Fuel Mileage?  

Diesel motorhomes are more fuel-efficient than petrol models. Why? Here are the main facts you need to know:  

  • Diesel provides 10-15% more power than petrol.  
  • Diesel engines are 20-35% more efficient.  
  • Diesel motorhome gas mileage allows longer travel on the same amount of fuel.  

However, it’s not all better when it comes to diesel. Diesel fuel costs more per gallon. This means you’ll need to consider the cost of diesel fuel per mile when planning trips.   

How To Calculate Gas Mileage (MPG)

How to Get Better Gas Mileage in Your Motorhome  

Improving your motorhome’s gas mileage can save you money and make your adventures more enjoyable. By adopting smarter driving habits, maintaining your vehicle, and packing efficiently, you can maximise fuel efficiency on every trip. Here are the most effective ways to get better gas mileage in your motorhome:  

1. Drive Smarter and Smoother  

  • Maintain a steady speed, which will boost fuel efficiency.  
  • Aim to drive between 55-60 mph, as this is the optimal range for most motorhomes.  
  • Use cruise control on long, flat roads to help eliminate speed fluctuations, which often increase fuel consumption.   
  • Avoid aggressive driving behaviours like sudden accelerations and harsh braking, as these habits force your engine to work harder, burning more fuel.  
  • If possible, plan your trips to avoid high-traffic areas where stop-and-go driving is unavoidable.  

 

2. Pack Light and Plan Ahead  

A heavy motorhome uses significantly more fuel, so you need to be strategic about what you pack:  

  • Keep the load light and only bring the essentials. 
  • Empty grey and black water tanks before setting off.  
  • Only fill freshwater tanks with what you need for the journey. 
  • Plan your route to avoid steep hills, winding roads, and congested city routes that require frequent stopping.  

  

3. Maintain Your Motorhome  

Regular maintenance is key to keeping your motorhome running efficiently, so:  

  • Start with your tyres: check the pressure regularly, as under-inflated tyres increase drag and fuel consumption. 
  • Replace dirty air and fuel filters to make sure the engine gets the clean airflow it needs to operate properly. 
  • Use the manufacturer’s recommended motor oil, as it keeps the engine running smoothly. 
  • Inspect the brakes, as poorly functioning brakes create resistance that affects MPG.  

4. Optimise Engine Usage  

Reducing unnecessary strain on your engine can help save fuel:  

  • Avoid idling for long periods, as running the engine without movement wastes fuel.  
  • If you’re parked for more than a few minutes, switch the engine off rather than leaving it running. 
  • Use the air conditioning sparingly, as excessive usage adds strain. 

How To Calculate Gas Mileage (MPG)  

Wondering how to work out your motorhome’s fuel efficiency? No worries, it’s fairly simple. You just need to follow these steps:  

  1. Fill up the fuel tank to full.  
  2. Reset your trip counter.  
  3. Drive normally until you need to refuel.  
  4. Refill your tank and record how many gallons it takes.  
  5. Divide miles driven by gallons used: MPG = miles driven ÷ gallons used.  

For example, say you drive 250 miles and refill with 20 gallons (250 ÷ 20). This means your gas mileage is 12.5 MPG. Simple, right? 

FAQs  

What’s the best way to save on fuel in my Motorhome?  

Drive steadily between 55-60 mph and avoid stop-go traffic. Packing light and using cruise control also help improve fuel efficiency. Keeping your motorhome well-maintained can also help.   

Which motorhomes get the best gas mileage?  

Class B motorhomes get the best gas mileage due to their lightweight, aerodynamic design. Diesel-powered models generally offer better fuel efficiency than petrol ones. Their compact size not only makes them fuel-efficient but also easier to manoeuvre.  

3 thoughts on “Gas Mileage on Motorhomes: Ultimate Guide for 2025

  1. If you’re gonna plagiarise somebody else’s article, then at least translate it first, FFS.

    This is a UK site, with a UK contact address, yet the article was clearly written by an American.

    1. The content is written to get people to spend time on the page reading it. As much as it isn’t relevant to a motorhome dealer in the UK, having US themed articles means more engagement. There are no rules governing the content we choose to release, it is for you to choose if you feel it is relevant to you.

  2. Is it economical to have better polution standards for a modern M.H. for instance if going to london a few times a year will one save by having the latest engines or is £15 / day charge for 4 days not worth getting a ‘blue’ using engine .
    I have a 2.3 jtd and like being in control rather than a computer telling me to get an imediate service and ruining my holiday for a minor defect.

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