Diesel motorhomes are often the top choice for RV enthusiasts who prioritize the luxury, power, and durability of an RV. These impressive vehicles offer a range of amenities, spacious interiors, and the performance needed to tackle long journeys with ease.
Whether you’re planning a cross-country adventure or seeking the ultimate mobile living experience, finding the best diesel motorhome is essential. With numerous models and features to consider, it’s important to explore the options available and identify the motorhome that best suits your needs.
From sleek designs to advanced technologies, the world of diesel motorhomes offers a wealth of possibilities for those looking to embark on their next unforgettable journey on the open road. In this guide, we will explore some of the best diesel motorhomes for the money, highlighting their unique features and advantages, to help you make an informed decision and find the perfect home on wheels.
What Are Diesel Pusher Motorhomes?
Diesel motorhomes, also known as diesel pushers, are a type of recreational vehicle (RV) that is powered by a diesel engine. Unlike gasoline-powered motorhomes, which have the engine located in the front of the vehicle, diesel motorhomes have the engine located in the rear. This design provides several advantages, including improved weight distribution, reduced noise and vibration in the living area, and enhanced towing capabilities.
Diesel motorhomes are known for their power, torque, and fuel efficiency. The diesel engine offers greater towing capacity, making it suitable for pulling additional vehicles or trailers. They are often equipped with larger fuel tanks, allowing for longer travel distances without frequent refueling. Additionally, diesel engines tend to have a longer lifespan and require less maintenance compared to gasoline engines.
In terms of amenities and features, diesel motorhomes offer spacious interiors with various layouts, including multiple slide-outs to expand the living area when parked. They are equipped with comfortable living spaces, kitchenettes, bathrooms, and sleeping quarters. Some high-end diesel motorhomes may include luxurious features such as premium appliances, high-quality furnishings, advanced entertainment systems, and upscale finishes.
Diesel motorhomes are favored by RV enthusiasts who prioritize power, durability, and long-term travel capabilities. They are well-suited for those who plan to embark on extended trips or full-time RV living, as they provide a comfortable and reliable home on wheels. However, it’s important to note that diesel motorhomes can be more expensive to purchase and maintain compared to their gasoline counterparts.
What are Advantages of Diesel Motorhomes
Compare to gas motorhomes, diesel pushers offer a range of advantages that make them a popular choice among RV enthusiasts. Let’s explore some of the key advantages of diesel motorhomes:
Fuel Efficiency
One of the significant advantages of diesel motorhomes is their fuel efficiency. Diesel engines are known for their ability to deliver better mileage compared to gasoline engines. This means you can travel longer distances on a single tank of fuel, making diesel motorhomes more cost-effective in the long run and ideal for those who enjoy extended trips or full-time RV living.
Durability
Diesel engines are renowned for their robust construction and durability. They are built to handle heavy loads and demanding driving conditions, making them highly reliable for long journeys. Diesel motorhomes often have longer lifespans and require less maintenance compared to gasoline engines. This durability translates into reduced maintenance costs and peace of mind for owners.
Power and Performance
Diesel motorhomes offer impressive power and performance. The high torque provided by diesel engines makes them ideal for towing heavy loads or climbing steep grades effortlessly. Whether you need to tow a car behind, a boat, or other recreational vehicles, diesel motorhomes have the strength to handle it, ensuring a smooth and confident driving experience.
Towing Capacity
Thanks to their powerful engines, diesel motorhomes have excellent towing capabilities. They can handle heavy trailers or additional vehicles without compromising performance. This towing capacity opens up a world of possibilities for RV enthusiasts who want to bring along their favorite toys or equipment on their journeys.
Resale Value
Diesel motorhomes tend to hold their value well in the resale market. Their reputation for durability, reliability, and performance makes them desirable among buyers. When it comes time to upgrade or sell your diesel motorhome, you can expect a higher resale value compared to gasoline motorhomes, which can be a significant advantage for RV owners.
These advantages make diesel motorhomes an attractive option for those seeking a powerful, efficient, and long-lasting RVing experience.
| Criteria | Gas Motorhomes | Diesel Motorhomes |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Efficiency | Lower fuel efficiency compared to diesel motorhomes. | Better fuel efficiency, providing more mileage per tank. |
| Power and Performance | Decent power and performance suitable for regular recreational use. | Excellent power and performance, ideal for towing and handling heavy loads. |
| Towing Capacity | Moderate towing capacities for smaller trailers or lighter loads. | Excellent towing capacities, capable of handling heavy trailers and additional vehicles. |
| Engine Noise and Vibration | More engine noise and vibrations. | Quieter and smoother ride with minimized engine noise and vibrations. |
| Maintenance Costs | Lower upfront costs | Higher upfront costs but lower maintenance costs in the long run. |
| Resale Value | Lower resale values. | Higher resale values due to durability and performance. |
| Personal Preference | Suitable for lower budgets or those prioritizing lower upfront costs. | Preferred by those seeking superior power, towing capacity, fuel efficiency, and long-term durability. |
The Best Diesel Motorhomes for the Money: Top Picks
Many new RVers can be skeptical about why a diesel pusher would be that much better than a regular gas-powered RV. But we’re here to tell you that a diesel motorhome can be one of the best investments you’ll make if you want to seriously get into RVing.
If you’re thinking about buying your first motorhome and wondering if a diesel model is really worth the extra cost, you’ve come to the right place. We have discussed 10 models as the best diesel motorhome for the money. Here are some Class A diesel motorhome reviews at a range of price points.
Fleetwood Pace Arrow 33D
- Exterior length: 33′ 11″
- Exterior height: 12′ 2″
- Sleeps: 6
- Fuel cap: 90 gal
- MSRP: $336,691
The Pace Arrow 33D is the best diesel pusher motorhome for the money because it’s built to be the ultimate RV road trip companion. It starts with Freightliner’s very sturdy XCS chassis, which provides a smooth and safe ride down the highway.
With a towing capacity of 10,000 pounds, you can bring along your car or ATV as a dinghy vehicle. The huge 90 gallon fuel tank so you can go the distance between fill-ups.
The 33D’s dual slide outs really open up the inside space. You get options galore like wardrobes in all three bedrooms, a split bath, two pantry closets, and even a shower with a seat. Some of my favorite extras are the exterior TV with Bluetooth soundbar to watch games from the porch.
Is Pace Arrow the best Class A diesel motorhome? Read our rest Class A diesel RV reviews to be the best judge!
Entegra 2023 Cornerstone 45Z
- Exterior length: 44′ 11″
- Exterior height: 12′ 8″
- Sleeps: 6
- Fuel cap: 150 gallons
- MSRP: $896,439
If you want luxury, the Cornerstone 45Z could be the best diesel motorhome for the money.
What we like most is how easy Entegra makes traveling in this monster. All the safety features really take the worry out of a long road trip. You’ve got adaptive cruise control, collision warning, blind spot monitoring, and a 360 camera just to name a few.
And the luxury touches are fantastic. The Villa leather seats are awesome, offering a massaging option for both driver and passenger. Talk about comfort! Even the dash is impressive with that big 15-inch digital display.
- Exterior length: 24′ 3″
- Exterior height: 9’8″/ 9’10″(C)
- Sleeps: 3
- Fuel cap: 24.5 gallons
- MSRP: $211,769
If you want the best diesel RV under 30 feet, the Winnebago Era 70A fits the bill. This compact Class B is built on Mercedes-Benz’s legendary Sprinter chassis, powered by a 3.0L turbo-diesel engine. The 24.5 gallon fuel tank gives the Era 70A plenty of range between fill ups, so you can keep on going.
Living space is maximized with features like removable companion seats that swivel to face each other and multiplex switches for all the interior lighting. There’s even a 24-inch HD TV that swivels out for viewing from the awning-covered outdoor space. The windows are tinted for privacy, and the shades and blinds give you options for keeping things light or dark inside. This is one of the best Class B RVs for full-time living.
Newmar Dutch Star 4369
- Exterior length: 43′ 9″
- Exterior height: 13′ 1″
- Sleeps: 8
- MSRP: $564,340
If you want the best diesel motorhome for the money, the Newmar Dutch Star 4369 should be at the top of your list.
What sets this rig apart is the incredible attention to detail and customization options. And the features are off the charts for a class A motorhome. There are full bathrooms, a huge kitchen, and a big living area.
But what we love most is the versatility that three huge slideouts provide. Having that much extra living space really makes a difference when you’re spending long periods in the motorhome.
Allegro Breeze 33 BR
- Exterior length: 33′ 2″
- Exterior height: 11′ 8″
- Sleeps: 5
- Fuel cap: 70 gallons
The Allegro Breeze will make any list of the best Class A diesel motorhome under 35 feet. It gives a big-rig experience in a compact unit. This little giant packs a mighty punch, thanks to its PowerGlide chassis and 340 horsepower Cummins diesel engine.
Allegro used aluminum frames for the roof and trailer structure, keeping weight down while still providing durability and strength. It’s the best small Class A diesel RV where the space is maximized inside for comfortable living and enough storage.
Features like the Truma gas water heater, stainless steel refrigerator, and handcrafted cabinets show the attention to detail. The soft vinyl ceilings, LED lighting, and prep for a washer and dryer make this feel more like home.
Winnebago Forza 34T
- Exterior length: 35′ 6″
- Exterior height: 12′
- Sleeps: 5
- Fuel cap: 90 gallons
- MSRP: $352,711
When you want the best diesel motorhome for the money, you can’t go wrong with a Winnebago. They’ve been making high-quality, reliable motorhomes for decades, and the Forza lives up to that reputation.
The Forza 34T is a great choice for families. There’s plenty of comfortable lounge seating up front and storage galore, so you can take everything you need for a long trip. We really like the slide-out living room and private master bedroom in the back. The slide gives you so much extra space to spread out and relax.
Safari Trek Pathfinder 2830
- Exterior length: 27′ 7″
- Exterior height: 10′ 6″
- Sleeps: 4
- Fuel cap: 33 gallons
It’s extremely rare to find 30 ft Class A diesel motorhomes. There have only a handful been made around the 28-30 foot mark. If you don’t mind buying a used unit, a Trek Pathfinder 2830 (1994 model) could be an excellent choice for the money.
This compact Class A gets surprisingly good fuel economy for a diesel – around 15 mpg – thanks to its zippy little Isuzu engine. That means more money for camping fees and less time fueling up.
Inside, the Pathfinder makes the most of its under 30 foot length. The queen “magic bed” hidden in the ceiling expands to a spacious 52×75-inch bed when needed.
All the basics are covered too, like the single air conditioner, 20-inch color TV, and connections for cable. Plus, you get about 49 cubic feet of storage space throughout.
- Exterior length: 43′
- Exterior height: 12′ 10″
- Sleeps: 4
- Fuel cap: 100 gallons
Looking for the best used Class A motorhome? Go for the Winnebago Tour 42HD. You’ll get all that Winnebago quality and craftsmanship at a seriously discounted price. These coaches are known to last for decades with proper care, so snatching up a lightly used unit will get you the best diesel motorhome for the money.
This motorhome packs a serious performance punch under the hood thanks to its powerful 450 horsepower Cummins engine and Maxum chassis. The interior has super comfy ultra leather furniture, multiple bathrooms for a large group, and that awesome Glide and Dine dinette table that turns into a spacious eating area at the push of a button.
Winnebago really thought of every little convenience with accessories like the full patio awnings and the cool exterior entertainment center you can get with the tailgate package.
Newmar Ventana 3412
- Exterior length: 34′ 10″
- Exterior height: 12′ 10″
- Sleeps: 6
- Fuel cap: 100 gallons
- MSRP: $431,709
If you want the best diesel pusher RV with luxury, the Newmar Ventana 3412 has it all. When you’re paying top dollars for a diesel pusher, you want to know it’ll last for years, and we’re confident the Ventana will.
You’ve got 4K Samsung TVs, a Bose sound bar and satellite dish preps so your entertainment is top-notch. And we love that they include safety features, like fire extinguishers, smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. They really thought of everything when it comes to safety and comfort.
Tiffin Phaeton 37BH
- Exterior length: 38′ 2″
- Exterior height: 12′ 7″
- Sleeps: 9
- Fuel cap: 100 gallons
Phaeton excels when you want the best diesel motorhome for the money. Tiffin spares no expense to feature elegant refinements and upscale amenities. Everywhere you look there are lush fabrics, high-end appliances and impeccable craftsmanship.
The three slide-outs really make the living space feel expansive and comfortable. You have so many furniture options to create a living room that feels just right for you. And the master suite in the back, with a queen bed and private bath, provides plenty of privacy at the end of a long trip.
Obviously no diesel motorhome is cheap, but for what you’re getting, incredible craftsmanship, tons of high-end features and an abundance of living space, the Phaeton 37BH truly offers a lot of bang for your buck.
You may also like: Best Places to Buy an RV
Factors to Consider When Buying a Diesel Motorhome
When you’re in the market for a diesel motorhome, with the multitude of options available, it’s essential to consider several key factors before making your decision. So, let’s delve into the factors that will ensure you make an informed and satisfying purchase for your next RV adventure.
Size and Floor Plan
The size and floor plan of a diesel motorhome are crucial considerations. Determine the level of space you require based on the number of occupants and your personal preferences.
Consider factors such as sleeping arrangements, kitchen layout, bathroom facilities, dining area, and storage space. Ensure that the floor plan provides a comfortable and functional living environment that suits your lifestyle.
Engine Power and Performance
One of the major advantages of diesel motorhomes is their power and performance. Research the engine specifications and horsepower to ensure they meet your requirements.
Consider factors such as torque, acceleration, and towing capacity. If you plan to travel through hilly terrains or tow heavy loads, opt for a motorhome with sufficient power to handle these challenges with ease.
Chassis and Suspension
The chassis and suspension of a diesel motorhome play a vital role in its overall performance and handling. Look for a chassis that is sturdy and reliable, capable of supporting the weight of the motorhome and providing stability on the road.
A well-designed suspension system can enhance ride comfort and minimize vibrations, making your journey more enjoyable.
Interior Features and Amenities
Evaluate the interior features and amenities provided in the diesel motorhome. Consider aspects such as comfortable sleeping arrangements, a well-equipped kitchen with appliances and storage space, a functional bathroom with adequate facilities, a dining area, entertainment systems, and heating and cooling systems. Prioritize the features that are essential for your comfort and convenience during your travels.
Fuel Tank Capacity
Diesel motorhomes typically have larger fuel tanks compared to their gas counterparts. A larger fuel tank allows for longer travel distances without frequent refueling stops.
Consider the fuel tank capacity and estimate how far you can travel on a full tank. Keep in mind that fuel economy can vary based on driving conditions and load weight.
Maintenance and Service
Consider the maintenance requirements and availability of service centers for the diesel motorhome you intend to purchase.
Research the reputation and reliability of the manufacturer and ensure that there are service centers in your area that specialize in diesel engine maintenance and repairs. Accessible parts and knowledgeable technicians can make a significant difference in the overall ownership experience.
FAQs About Diesel Pushers
Is a diesel motorhome better than a gas?
Diesel motorhomes are known for their powerful engines, higher torque, and better fuel economy, making them suitable for towing heavy loads or traveling long distances. They also tend to have a longer lifespan and better resale value. However, diesel motorhomes tend to have a higher upfront cost, require specialized maintenance, and may have limited availability in certain models and sizes. So if their higher price is not your concern and you prioritize towing capacity and powerful & long-lasting performance, diesel motorhomes would be a better choice!
Why do they call an RV diesel pusher?
An RV with a rear-mounted diesel engine is commonly referred to as a “diesel pusher.” The term “pusher” comes from the fact that the diesel engine is located at the rear of the vehicle, pushing it forward. Unlike gasoline engines found in the front of most RVs, the diesel engine in a pusher is positioned in the rear compartment, typically underneath the living area or bedroom.
Unlike other types of RVs where the engine is located at the front (such as gas motorhomes), the placement of the engine in a diesel pusher allows for quieter and smoother operation since the engine noise is isolated at the rear. Additionally, the rear engine placement provides better weight distribution, improved stability, and increased towing capacity, making diesel pushers a popular choice among RV enthusiasts seeking enhanced performance and luxury amenities.
What class is a diesel pusher motorhome?
Diesel pushers specifically refer to Class A motorhomes that are powered by a rear-mounted diesel engine. These motorhomes often feature high-end features, such as multiple slide-outs, full-size kitchens, luxurious bathrooms, and ample living space. With their size, power, and luxury, diesel pusher motorhomes are a popular choice among RV enthusiasts seeking a top-of-the-line recreational vehicle for long-distance travel and full-time living.
How long will a diesel motorhome last?
On average, a well-maintained diesel motorhome can last for 200,000 to 300,000 miles or more. However, it’s important to note that with proper maintenance and occasional engine overhauls, some diesel motorhomes have been known to reach significantly higher mileage. Regular maintenance, including oil changes, fluid checks, and timely repairs, along with responsible driving habits, can contribute to maximizing the lifespan of a diesel motorhome.
Why do diesel motorhomes last longer?
Diesel motorhomes tend to last longer due to the durability of diesel engines and the robustness of their components. Diesel engines are built to withstand high compression ratios and heavy loads, resulting in a longer lifespan. The higher energy density and lubricity of diesel fuel also contribute to reduced wear and tear on the engine. Additionally, diesel motorhomes often receive regular maintenance and care, which further enhances their longevity. However, it’s important to note that factors such as proper maintenance, driving conditions, and usage patterns also play a significant role in determining the lifespan of a diesel motorhome.
How often do you change the oil in a diesel motorhome?
As a general guideline, oil changes for diesel engines are typically recommended every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or every six months, whichever comes first. However, it’s essential to consult the motorhome’s owner’s manual and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the specific engine model to ensure proper maintenance. Regular oil changes are crucial for preserving engine performance, lubrication, and overall longevity in a diesel motorhome.
