Top Rated Class A Diesel Motorhomes for the Money

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Why does anyone want to own a diesel pusher instead of a rig that runs on gasoline? There are a few reasons but the choice mostly depends on personal preferences. These two types of recreational vehicles have substantial differences between them. However, both of them have ardent fan-following who would eagerly vouch for them.

If you have already decided on a diesel unit, you might have been looking for the best diesel motorhome for the money.

best diesel motorhomes
Top rated Class A diesel motorhomes

What Are Diesel Pushers?

Every RVer, who wants to live large on the road, dreams of owning a Class A diesel motorhome sometimes down the road.

Class A diesel motorhomes are the crème de la crème of RVs. These fully decked out vehicles will make you feel like you are living in a home. The ride is so comfortable, the facilities are abundant, and the luxury features are so spot on that it doesn’t feel like an RV.

class A diesel motorhomes
Diesel pushers have luxurious features.

These vehicles are typically 24 to 40 feet long and can set you back for $300,000. In fact, the price of a customized diesel pusher can touch seven figures too. People who go for the customized option often choose upgrades like heated tile floors, on-board electrical plants, a big kitchen with all standard equipment, and more.

Diesel Motorhome Pros and Cons

Comparing different aspects between diesel vs gas motorhome will give you a clear idea about the positives and downsides diesel pushers.

The Pros of Diesel Motorhomes

Availability of options. In the diesel-run category, you will get a wide range of floor plans. So, you can choose according to your needs and desired lifestyle. Also, the interior in these vehicles is more luxurious than that of a gas-run RV.

Longer lifespan. They often outlast a gas engine by a decent margin. Between a rebuild or overhaul, it can go more than 200,000 miles. Full-timers who plan to drive a lot between maintenance schedules will definitely love a diesel RV. Also, longer lifespan means a higher resale value.

Engine power. Another strong point of the diesel version. Its superior low-end torque helps with towing loads and climbing uphills. A diesel engine produces more torque at lower RPMs, which is great for cruising mountainous roads with heavy loads.

A gas engine produces more power at higher RPMs, which is helpful for quick acceleration. However, speeding up is not quite desirable when driving an RV.

Riding comfort and hauling capacity. Nothing can beat diesel pushers in terms of riding comfort. Because of having a heavy chassis and air ride suspension, they provide a smooth riding experience.

The strong, brawny chassis also has a greater towing capacity. You can haul plenty of stuff, which is a plus when you are traveling with your family.

Fuel efficiency and emission. Buy a diesel RV if you want to have the fuel economy. There won’t be a dramatic difference compared to a gas engine, but you will get more miles per gallon, for sure. They also emit less carbon dioxide, and other greenhouse gases.

The Cons of Diesel Motorhomes

Expensive fluid. Diesel fuel is more expensive than gasoline. Besides, newer motorhomes require a special diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) that is pricey and not available everywhere. This is extra to your expense tally of owning a diesel pusher.

Maintenance. Diesel RVs require less-frequent but regular maintenance. Upkeep negligence can bite you back in the form of some highly expensive repairs. Also, diesel engine maintenance expenses, including costs of parts, servicing, and more, are higher than gas engines.

Overall price. The price of a diesel-run RV could be double than of a gas-run unit in the same category. The customized versions cost even more. However, this price tag is somewhat justifiable considering the long lifespan and numerous benefits they offer. And, their resale value is high too, so you can recoup a greater percentage of the expenses.

best diesel motorhomes
A diesel-run RV is a costly investment.

Buying an RV: Gas vs Diesel RV

Comparing gas vs diesel RV will put the latter miles ahead of the gas engine vehicles. They offer so many benefits that it’s quite hard to ignore them. However, buying an RV is still a personal decision, depending on your lifestyle, travel plans, and budget.

Diesel motorhomes are much more expensive than the gas RVs. Sure then come with plenty of comfort features, but do you really need them? If you travel solo or with a partner, there is no need for a large diesel pusher. Also, a diesel RV seems extra when you are an occasional or seasonal traveler. Why buying a highly expensive motorhome and then leaving it in a storage facility for most time of the year?

However, a diesel RV is the best solution if you have the money and want to make it your permanent residence. If you ever decide to go back to your regular life, you can recoup a fair share of the spent amount because diesel pushers have a good resale value.

6 Best Diesel Pusher Motorhome for the Money

Anybody owning a pusher will praise its solid construction and stable handling on the road. Diesel pushers also last longer than their gasoline counterparts.

We’ve compiled a list of best diesel motorhomes to save your time.

Tiffin Motorhomes, Newmar, and Winnebago are some of the best diesel RV manufacturers currently operating in the market. They manufacture some of the top rated Class A diesel motorhomes that money can buy. Featuring a solid framework, high-quality parts, and loads of luxury add-ons, these coaches allow you to travel in comfort and style.

If you are shopping for a reliable diesel pusher, these are the best options with highest ratings from customers.

What are the best diesel motorhomes for the money:

  • Newmar Ventana 4369
  • Tiffin Allegro Breeze 31 BR
  • Tiffin Allegro Bus
  • Tiffin Phaeton 37BH
  • Winnebago Forza 34T
  • Newmar Dutch Star 4369

1# Newmar Ventana 4369 Motorhome

The Ventana 4369 from Newmar is one of the best class a diesel motorhome units in the market. It is a spacious, fully loaded home on wheels that offer hotel-like comfort and facilities away from home.

Newmar Ventana 4369

All models in the Ventana series are equipped with state-of-the-art features including top-grade electronics and modern appliances.

The Ventana 4369 is huge with a length of 43 feet and 10 inches. The interior space accommodates a master suite, well-decorated living area, and a fully equipped kitchen. The bedroom has a king-size bed and a huge bathroom with a shower and two separate sinks.

2# Tiffin Allegro Breeze 31 BR Motorhome

This compact diesel pusher is the best diesel motorhome for the money if you are looking for something smaller and less expensive than Ventana 4369. It is the most compact unit in Tiffin’s inventory but does not lack in luxury features.

Tiffin Allegro Breeze 31 BR

The unit is packed with innovative and advanced features including porcelain tile floor, customized PowerGlide chassis, handcrafted cabinets, and more. The amenities include a fireplace and TV in the living area while the spacious kitchen has a three-burner stove and a residential fridge.

This model has three slides. One opens up the queen-size bed area while the rest two are for the living space.

3# Tiffin Allegro Bus Motorhome

The diesel motorhome is one of the best diesel RV units on this list with a combination of a powerful engine, a high-quality framework, and a sophisticated look. The use of top-grade materials and features further enhances the vehicle’s unmatched elegance.

Tiffin Allegro Bus

Allegro Bus houses a Cummins 450 HP engine inside the Powerglide chassis. The huge engine coupled with a solid structure can project massive power on the road. The beautiful interior displaces top-notch finishing touches. You have to admire the marvelous ceiling effects, porcelain tile floor, central vacuum, and the fireplace.

4# Tiffin Phaeton 37BH Motorhome

The Phaeton 37BH is another best diesel motorhome for the money from Tiffin Motorhomes. The stylish unit with upscale features is for those campers who like to travel in style.

Phaeton 37BH

The master suite accommodates a queen-size bed and a full bathroom. There is another half-bath on the front side for kids or guests. There are three large slide-outs that open up to the living room.

5# Winnebago Forza 34T Motorhome

The Forza 34T from Winnebago is a major powerhouse on the road. The family-friendly rig looks highly elegant with full-body paint. There could not be a better RV if you are thinking of having long trips across the country with your family or friends. It will keep everyone relaxed and entertained with advanced equipment, plush furniture, and high-end entertainment systems.

Top Rated Class A Diesel Motorhomes for the Money 1

There is a living area slide-out that creates a spacious living space, which is great when you are traveling with a group. You can choose either a dinette/convertible sofa combo or a wrap-around sectional sofa when buying the pusher. Another slide out opens up the bedroom and kitchen areas. The bedroom accommodates a queen-size bed and has a separate sliding door if you need privacy.

6# Newmar Dutch Star 4369 Motorhome

With a deluxe interior design and plenty of luxurious features, the Dutch Star 4369 from Newmar is another best diesel motorhome for the money. This unit belongs to the brand’s one of the most iconic coach lines.

Newmar Dutch Star 4369

One unique option that the Dutch Star 4369 offers is the three interior design choices. You can pick one depending on your travel requirements and personal taste.

The master suite has a full twin-vanity bathroom along with another bath-and-a-half. Three slide outs make sure that you always have extra space. Other features include a well-equipped kitchen and a living space with a dinette and two sofas.

About Peter Wade

Peter Wade is a co-ordinator and writer at www.RVTalk.net. His hobbies are coffee, RV camping and photography. He now enjoys exploring the U.S. by RV with his two dogs. After obtaining a MA degree in Public Relations and Journalism, he had 8 years of experience working for the R&D Department of Outdoorsy. Peter provides a unique look and insightful knowledge about the RV lifestyle, and fills his blog with everything from RV camping guides to reviews about necessary RV accessories. If you are an RV enthusiast and want to get the most-updated trends of the RV industry, Peter’s articles are the must-visit contents.

11 thoughts on “Top Rated Class A Diesel Motorhomes for the Money”

  1. This was a very good and helpful article!
    My families problem, after many years of saving money for a shorter diesel pusher and to buy used, clean pre owned condition is to actually find one !
    A Tiffin Allegro Breeze 31 br, to find a good clean one is super difficult here in the mts of NH, 03264. Almost impossible , Any help would be greatly appreciated !

    Best, Jeff Hebra

    Reply
  2. A few things, Diesel Fuel is not much more than gasoline and less the premium gas. With a gas card from on the the many trucking outfits it about the same as gas. Next fuel economy, I recently drove a 40′ Diesel Pusher with a Cummins L9 380HP over 675 miles of which 80% was highway and averaged 25 Gallons per 320 miles or 12 plus MPG, a Gas Pusher is lucky to get 5mpg for the same size and weight. Next brands, no where you Mention Entegra, or the premium Newel, and Liberty Coaches. I suggest your readers join a forum (irv2.com) for the major brands and they will learn first hand how they all stack up. The forums are the truth tellers of the industry and any and all RV issues get reported and shared. As for Production Brands, they all use either Spartan or Freightliner for the powerplant and with a few exceptions the chassis (Newel builds their own, Liberty uses Prevo, and Tiffin makes their own for certain models ). Production Coach Builders integrate the same basic appliances, hardware, awnings, tires, electronics and control systems. With the exception of Newel and Liberty Coach, every major production builder’s coach has or will have problems from day one, its just the nature of the beast. Diesel Pushers are complex systems and failures are going to happen, and for many of us buyers they are going to come with issues. Production Coaches (except Winnebago) use outside sources for their furniture (couches, seats) and focus on Wood Working, Frame Building and the Integration of 3rd party products like; Generators, Heating and A/C systems, TVs, Plumbing, Electrical Systems, Lights, Tile or Vinyl Flooring, Fixtures, and more.

    The best way to determine who build the best is not comparing features and functions as they arll are about the same. The real focus should be how they respond to customers that have problems under warranty and after warranty expires. Without out great customer service from the manufacturer, the consumer is in the worst possible trouble having bought an expensive house on wheels. If you read the forums the three best brands hands down for service (and quality) are Entegra, Newmar and Tiffin. All of the others are included but seem to have more issues around customer service.

    Join the forums (IRV2.com is a real good one) and see what owners are saying about their coaches. I would recommend buying based on customer support as it by far the most important one.

    Reply
  3. To those thinking about purchasing a late model Tiffin D-pusher, beware, the kids took over and made a deal to join the Thor group. Thor is garbage.

    Reply
  4. We are looking for a used pusher with an overhead bunk 33-35 ish ft’ with at least a 340 engine. we have a 07 damon tuscany 40′ right now with a 340. and drag race so we pull a 28′ enclosed trailer.
    Just trying to find something a little shorter. Ours we have been able to fix and keep maintained and i like not having to use DEF but looking for the overhead bunk we will have to go with 2013 or newer i believe. Also the main ones are the Thor and their reviews are terrible what do you suggest??
    Thanks,

    Reply
  5. I am new at RV- ing , I wont to buy a diesel to go cross county.
    What is a good brand for first time RVers? and why

    Reply

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