NEWS

April 2nd, 2025

Fuel economy is one of the most important factors for many campervan buyers. Whether you’re planning long road trips, seasonal travel, or frequent weekend getaways, better gas mileage keeps travel costs predictable and makes it easier to go farther without constantly watching the fuel gauge. Class B campervans are already more efficient than large motorhomes, but there can be a significant difference in MPG depending on vehicle size, drivetrain, and overall weight. Understanding what affects fuel economy can help you choose a campervan that fits both your travel style and your budget.

Most traditional Class B campervans built on full-size vans fall into the 14–20 MPG range depending on engine, drivetrain, and conversion weight. Larger high-roof vans tend to be on the lower end of that range, while smaller front-wheel-drive platforms typically deliver the best fuel economy. A campervan that consistently achieves more than 20 MPG in mixed driving is considered very fuel-efficient for this category.

The Mini-T Campervan lineup stands out for its compact size, lightweight conversion, and automotive platforms that deliver excellent fuel economy compared to larger Class B vans. The Ford Transit Connect Mini-T Campervan typically achieves approximately 24–28 MPG, making it one of the most fuel-efficient Class B campervans available. Its smaller footprint and lighter weight make it well suited for long road trips, state park travel, and everyday use while keeping fuel costs low.

The Chrysler Pacifica Mini-T Campervan offers more power and all-wheel drive capability while still delivering strong fuel efficiency for a V6-powered campervan. It typically achieves approximately 17–25 MPG depending on driving conditions and configuration. This platform is well suited for four-season travel and long-distance touring while maintaining mileage that compares favorably with many full-size vans. The Chrysler Voyager Mini-T Campervan, built on a front-wheel-drive platform, is one of the most efficient V6-powered campervans in the Class B category. With EPA ratings of 19 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway, it delivers excellent efficiency while maintaining a comfortable, quiet driving experience.

By comparison, Mercedes-Benz Sprinter-based campervans from manufacturers such as Winnebago and Airstream typically average around 20–22 MPG for diesel models and approximately 12–17 MPG for gas models. These vans offer large interiors and full stand-up height but are heavier, taller, and more expensive to operate and maintain.

Full-size Ford Transit HR Campervans generally average between 14–19 MPG depending on roof height, wheelbase, drivetrain, and overall build weight, with AWD and extended-length models falling toward the lower end of that range.

Ram ProMaster-based campervans typically fall into the 16–20 MPG range and offer a wide interior and front-wheel-drive layout, but they remain significantly larger and heavier than compact campervan platforms.

Fuel economy in a campervan depends on several factors including vehicle weight, roof height, exterior accessories, drivetrain configuration, engine size, tire size, and driving style. Smaller, lighter campervans consistently achieve better mileage than large high-roof vans, especially when driven at highway speeds over long distances.

Better gas mileage does more than reduce fuel expenses. It also means fewer fuel stops on long trips, easier budgeting for extended travel, greater flexibility for spontaneous trips, and lower long-term operating costs. For travelers who cover thousands of miles each year, the difference between a compact campervan and a full-size Class B can be substantial over time.

Many buyers assume bigger is better, but larger vans often bring higher fuel costs, parking challenges, and storage limitations. Compact Class B campervans demonstrate that comfortable travel does not require a full-size motorhome. A well-designed compact campervan can provide comfortable sleeping for two, onboard refrigeration and cooking, off-grid electrical capability, easy daily drivability, and garage-friendly storage while delivering fuel economy that larger vans simply cannot match.

If fuel efficiency is a top priority in your campervan search, compact platforms remain the leaders in this category. The Mini-T Campervan lineup offers some of the best MPG available in the Class B segment, making it a strong option for travelers who value practicality, affordability, and long-distance capability. Before purchasing any campervan, it is always wise to review current specifications, owner experiences, and total operating costs. The right campervan is the one that supports how you actually travel.

Happy Camping!

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