7 Best Used Class C RV Brands
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We have toured and reviewed tons of used Class C RVs out there, but what really matters, are the late model Class C RV brands. A brand is a reputation, after all, and it takes years, possibly decades, to build a massive consumer base that trusts your label. And buying a used Class C RV can save you a ton of money!
The best brands made it there through trial and tribulation, jumping into the fire, and returning scathed and singed, but smarter for the effort. The consumers in the RV business are not always kind, and it’s hard to blame them.
Class C RVs are not cheap, and the consumer is looking for a home on wheels, not a “forever in the repair garage” product. Some stand out and some don’t.
These pre-owned Class C RV brands are the cream that rose to the top, often struggling through the inevitable ups and downs of the business.
Is A Class C RV Right For You?
The answer to this often depends on the customer and what the customer wants. Class Cs, especially if you include the Super Cs, are capable of matching Class A motorhomes in terms of luxury and amenities.
The obvious thing that separates them from travel trailers and fifth-wheels is the engine. But the line of separation between Cs and As is much more narrow. This usually boils down to driving preferences and access to state and national parks.
Class Cs are a little easier to drive than Class As, and they also have a higher degree of access to state and national parks, thanks to their shorter lengths and lower weights. They’re easier to handle in heavy traffic as well, which is a huge selling point on its own.
Class C RVs also have a smaller footprint, though it’s not by much.
7 Best Used Class C RV Brands
The best previously owned Class C RV brands either have a history of building their reputation or they made a huge impact early on, such as the Living Vehicle. Either way, these Class Cs are on a different wavelength altogether.
1. Dynamax
Dynamax is a division of Forest River Inc. that specializes in Class C motorhomes. Choose from four different Super C models, a compact Mercedes Sprinter model, or the 4×4 Isata 5 that’s built on the Dodge Ram 5500 chassis.
Everything about the Dynamax Class C RV brand says quality, durability, and performance. The manufacturer only uses the best chassis and builds their coaches to keep up with them. Owners of Dynamax Class C motorhomes hold on to their coaches many years longer than most.
What Makes Dynamax Great
Dynamax Class C RV brand motorhomes have floor plans ideal for families but aren’t the typical mini moho seen at amusement park campgrounds. You’ll find these Super C motorhomes in RV resorts or the big bruisers going off-road.
These motorhomes have great suspension and luxury-level interiors so you can enjoy a comfortable interior living experience, but these sled dogs want to run.
2. Entegra Coach
Number three in our best Class C RV brands is Entegra Coach. Entegra is more than the Cadillac version of Jayco. The company builds multi-million dollar Class A motorhomes that stand tall next to Prevost luxury liners.
Entegra Coach introduced Class C RVs to its lineup in 2018. It now has five models in various lengths, with differences ranging from the chassis to the number of slideouts.
What Makes Entegra Coach Great
Entegra Coach is a luxurious brand that has gained popularity for its attention to detail and features more akin to those you would find in a luxury Class A. For example, the Entegra Accolade XL built on a Freightliner chassis features a full-size bath and a half, washer and dryer prep, and beautiful solid-surface countertops.
The other thing that makes the Entegra Coach great is that because it’s part of the Thor family, there’s a vast network of dealers and service centers to keep you on the road.
3. NeXus RV
Founded in 2010, NeXus RV is a relative newcomer to the world of recreational vehicle manufacturing. However, the company has quickly made a name for itself with its innovative approach to motorhome design.
Rather than selling pre-made RVs, NeXus offers customers the ability to build their own custom vehicles using a factory-direct approach.
With its sleek design and spacious interior, the NeXus Class C RV brand is a great choice for those who love to travel in style. But this RV is more than just a pretty face; it’s also built for comfort and convenience.
Nexus focuses on Super C RVs but also offers standard Class C and B rigs. Their product line includes the following Class C models:
- Ghost: The Ghost is NeXus RV’s luxury Super C diesel motorhome. It features a spacious interior with high-end finishes, plus all the latest technology and amenities.
- Wraith: The Wraith is a smaller, more budget-friendly version of the Ghost. It’s still packed with features and amenities but doesn’t have the added value features of the Ghost.
- Phantom: The Phantom is NeXus RV’s standard Class C motorhome. It has a more traditional design with plenty of storage space and all the essentials you need for a comfortable road trip.
What Makes NeXus RV Great
One thing that sets NeXus apart is the quality of its construction. Nexus uses high-strength, low-alloy (HSLA) steel tubing for its frame rather than aluminum commonly used in RV manufacturing.
In addition, the walls are made with Azdel, a man-made product much more water-resistant than Luan, the wood-based composite material typically used in RV construction.
Azdel also provides better sound and thermal insulation than Luan. According to Nexus, the materials used in this wall structure are seventy-two percent stronger than an aluminum-based wall.
Attention to this type of detail results in a superior product that provides years of enjoyment for adventurous travelers.
4. Thor Motor Coach
If you’re looking for the biggest variety in size, decor, and RV lifestyle among the Class C RV brands, set your GPS app to Thor Motor Coach. In 2010, parent company Thor Industries married Damon Motor Coach to Four Winds International.
The resulting merger created North America’s number 1 motorhome brand. You’ll find compact, standard-size, and Super C RVs that use many different van and truck chassis.
What Makes Thor Motor Coach Great
There’s a Class C RV brand series for virtually every type of RV lifestyle. If you’re looking for a great family drivable RV the Four Winds or Chateau are great rigs to start. Want to go off-road, check out the Omni & Magnitude. Need a motorized toy hauler, the Outlaw Class C has plenty of room for your ATV.
If you love the features and amenities of one model, but the decor doesn’t work for you, check out the motor coach’s sister brand. For example, the Four Winds has a Venice Stone decor while the Chateau comes with a Harbor Blue.
They have the same cabinetry color options and share the same luxury Home Collection Estate Grey decor upgrade. Thor uses this sister coach technique to give RVers the most choices possible.
5. Winnebago
Winnebago is one of the most trusted names in the RV industry. They offer a wide range of Class C RVs, from entry-level models to luxury coaches.
Customer satisfaction ratings are high, and their RVs are known for being well-built. Winnie has been the popular choice among full-time travelers and weekend warriors alike.
Since 1958, Winnebago has been a leading manufacturer of Class C RVs. These vehicles offer the right blend of size, amenities, and maneuverability. There’s a Winnebago Class C RV to fit any lifestyle with five models to choose from and nineteen original floor plans.
The Winnebago Minnie Winnie is one of their most popular models. It’s easy to drive and can be parked almost anywhere. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to downsize without giving up all the comforts of home.
The EKKO, Winnebago’s award-winning new Class C model, combines the best features of a camper van, a Class C coach, and an all-wheel-drive SUV. They designed this vehicle from the ground up to offer a unique blend of form and function, excelling in all areas.
Its large windows, which let in an abundance of natural light, accent the EKKO’s sleek exterior lines and offer panoramic views of your surroundings. Inside, you’ll find a spacious interior with plenty of room for both passengers and gear. And thanks to its all-wheel-drive Ford Transit chassis, the EKKO can tackle even challenging terrain.
What Makes Winnebago Great
Everyone knows the name Winnebago, but what makes this manufacturer so great? Here are just a few of the things that set Winnebago apart from the competition:
- Quality Construction: All Winnebago RVs are built with quality materials and craftsmanship. This results in RVs that are not only beautiful but also built to last.
- Innovative Features: When Winnebago rebranded itself as the leader in innovation in 2009, it continued that reputation by staying at the forefront of RV technology. Winnie still introduces features that set the bar for others.
- Customer Service: Winnebago has a well-deserved reputation for outstanding customer service. They are always available to help with questions you may have.
6. Coachmen
Coachman RV, a Forest River, Inc. division, is one of the best-known Class C RV brands on the market. With over 50 years of experience in manufacturing recreational vehicles, they know how to build a quality product that will last for years.
Their four Class C motorhome models are well-designed and range from 24 to 32 feet, so there’s sure to be one that’s just right for you.
Coachman RV also offers a variety of features and amenities that will make your camping experience more enjoyable. Some of their top features include a spacious interior, comfortable seating, and plenty of storage space.
What Makes Coachman Great
If you’re looking for an easy-to-drive RV with plenty of storage space, then a Coachman Class C RV is a great option. These RVs come with various features and amenities that will make your camping experience more enjoyable.
Coachman Class C RVs offer a wide variety of floor plans, so you can find one that best fits your needs. Whether you’re looking for a basic RV or one with all the bells and whistles, a Coachman Class C RV is a great option.
7. Gulf Stream Coach
Since 1983, Jim Shea Sr. and his family have produced over 300,000 RVs as a family-owned RV manufacturer. After having success in the Class A sector, in 1987, Gulf Stream launched the Conquest Class C, making it the longest-running drivable series on record for the RV manufacturer.
Gulf Stream Coach offers the Conquest as their only Class C. This RV manufacturer takes the approach of having one Class C RV that does it all. The list of standard features is the best the RV industry has to offer. The optional features are long and very appealing.
What Makes Gulf Stream Coach Great
With 11 floor plans in the large models and 3 in the shorter Limited Edition series, there’s a Conquest for first-timers to seasoned veterans. Choose from lengths between 24-33 feet in length. You can also pick a floor plan with one, two, or no slide-outs.
Instead of balancing many models with minute details, Gulf Stream Coach focuses on one series with many layouts. Couples and families will find great features in floor plan models like:
- 6237: U-shaped dinette in a non-slide-out
- 63111: Twin bunks
- 6310: Full wall slide-out
- 6316: North/south walk-around RV queen bed
- 6280LE: Pass through bathroom
Are Class C Motorhomes Hard On Fuel?
The average miles per gallon for a Class C motorhome is 14 to 18, which is better than the Class A’s 6 to 13. While 14 to 18 might not sound all that great, we’re talking about motorhomes here.
It’s not likely that you’re purchasing a motorhome so you can drive it a few blocks over to grandma’s house and that’s the extent of it.
You’re going to travel many, many miles in it, and the 14 to 18 versus 6-13 adds up in a hurry. It helps to have a diesel Class C. Sure, you’ll pay more at the pump, but you’ll get more miles per gallon, along with an engine that lasts much longer.
Is A Class C Motorhome Better Than A Class A?
Again, this depends on the customer. Class C RV brands own the gas mileage comparison, however, Class As have several advantages. The first is their size, offering more living space and, typically, more amenities.
Class As also have more towing power, in general, and more storage. But, at the same time, Class Cs have better camping access, are easier to drive, and get more gas mileage. So, what it really boils down to is your lifestyle and driving preferences.
Final Thoughts About the Best Pre-Owned Class C RV Brands
The best late model Class C RV brands built their brands on time and/or extraordinary offerings. There have been ups and downs throughout the history of some of these brands, including the pandemic, when RVs were flying out of factories in attempts to meet consumer demand.
These brands also offer a lot of value and versatility for your hard-earned dollar, including compact to Super C sizes, a wealth of amenities, and competitive innovations. If you’re looking for a dependable Class C, even one that’s used, this list will set you on the right path.
– 2 Incredible Class C Toy Hauler RVs You Have to See
– 10 Best Class C RVs With Murphy Beds
– 8 Best Class C Diesel Motorhomes
– 25 Best Places to Buy an RV
About the Author:
Mike Scarpignato is an avid RVer and outdoorsman. He travels with his wife Susan in their Class A 2021 Thor Challenger and their Class C 2008 Gulf Stream Conquest. Mike is the owner of RVBlogger.com, TravelTrailerPro.com, MotorhomeFAQs.com, the RVBlogger YouTube Channel, and the private Facebook group called RV Camping for Newbies.
Source: https://rvblogger.com/blog/best-used-class-c-rv-brands/
