When thinking about motorhomes, most new RVers will quickly learn the differences between Class A, B, and C RVs. However, there are two lesser-known motorhomes: the Super C RV and the Class B+ motorhome.
Today, we’ll explain what a Class B plus RV is, how it compares to a traditional Class B motorhome, and who might enjoy this type of camper best. We’ll also offer some of our favorite Class B plus motorhome brands for you to research further.
Class B vs Class B Plus Campers: What Are the Differences?
Since the Class B camper is the closest comparison to Class B plus RVs, let’s examine their differences based on five important factors: size, storage, living space, and maneuverability.
RV Size: Which Is More Compact?
Class B plus RVs fall between the traditional Class B vs Class C RV types in terms of size. Traditional Class B campers often land in the 16 to 21-foot range. Class B plus motorhomes are typically 23 to 26 feet long. This type of hybrid camper is built on an extended van chassis like the RAM® ProMaster 3500 or the Mercedes-Benz® Sprinter 4500, which have a longer base
In general, Class B RVs are more compact than Class B plus motorhomes. A B+ RV will have more living space for a full bathroom and other interior upgrades. This makes a B plus camper a more attractive option for families or couples seeking more interior comfort, especially those seeking a durable, comfortable camper for full-time RV living.
Winner: Depends on Preference
Storage: How Much Can You Pack?
In general, a larger RV will offer more storage capacity. The same is true for Class Bs and Class B+ RVs: the larger the camper, the more room for your belongings in interior cabinets and exterior compartments.
Actually, there’s one feature that’s rare to find on traditional camper vans that’s more common in Class B plus motorhomes: exterior storage compartments. The extended van chassis helps to make this possible, as there’s more room on top of the frame that isn’t taken by holding tanks, plumbing lines, and other construction components.
However, many traditional Class B camper vans offer creative exterior storage solutions you won’t find on Class B+ RVs. This included roof-mounted rack systems, rear-mounted bike racks, and more. Still, you won’t find nearly as much exterior storage in either of these motorhome types when compared to Class A vs Class C RVs.
Winner: Class B+
Living Space: Which Has More Room for Dining, Sleeping, Bathing, and Lounging?
The extended length of Class B+ campers allows manufacturers to include a slide-out in some of their floor plans. Whether it’s built on the campside, driver’s side, or the back wall of the camper, a Class B plus with a slide will offer dramatically more living space than a traditional camper van.
Additionally, some Class B+ motorhomes feature a compact cabover bunk area, expanding their sleeping capacities. While it’s rare to find a standard camper van that can sleep more than two people without a pop up roof, Class B+ RVs can often sleep four or more, thanks to a larger living area with a convertible dinette, sofa, or cabover bunk area.
Another noteworthy difference is the bathroom. While the compact nature of Class B RVs means that manufacturers can typically only fit a wet bath in these floorplans, you’ll find Class B plus motorhome floor plans with dry baths, and most don’t require that space to double as closet storage when you aren’t showering or using the restroom.
Winner: Class B+
Maneuverability: Which is Easier to Drive?
While there are compact Class C campers that are quite maneuverable, Class B and Class B+ motorhomes are the easiest RV to drive. However, Class B plus RVs won’t fit in as many tight parking spots or small campsites as standard Class B van campers.
The added length of Class B Plus RVs makes them more difficult to maneuver. Both of these motorhomes have similar widths, but the added length means you’ll need to make wider turns and use tools like side view and backup cameras to increase your visibility.
Winner: Class B (but only due to a few extra feet of length in Class B+ RVs)
What Features Do Class B Plus RVs Have?
While features will vary by RV manufacturer, here are a few common amenities you can expect from these motorhomes:
- Solar Charging Systems. Some may offer solar prep and others may include off-grid-ready packages with roof-mounted solar panels, a solar charge controller, an inverter, and inverted power outlets.
- Wireless Connectivity. Many Class B+ RVs include prep for a Wi-Fi router or a Wi-Fi-capable system as a standard feature.
- Digital Control Panels. Luxury Class B plus motorhomes allow you to control lights, awnings, air conditioners, and other appliances from a single digital display. Some even offer Bluetooth® connectivity to control your RV’s systems remotely.
- Versatile Furniture. Murphy beds, twin bed conversions, and convertible dinettes are common in Class B plus RVs to maximize day-to-night functionality.
- Driving Safety Features. Because they’re built on some of the industry’s best extended van chassis, drivers will enjoy safety features like hill start assist, lane departure warnings, blind spot monitoring, and more.
Consult the specific manufacturer for a complete list of features offered by a specific Class B plus motorhome.
Is It a Class B Plus RV or a Super B RV?
Depending on the RV manufacturer, you may also find a Class B+ RV labeled as a “Super B RV”. Although manufacturers may choose to label them differently, they’re essentially referring to the same RV type. This is similar to the term camper van being used as a synonym for Class B RV.
Popular Class B Plus RV Brands
If you want a compact motorhome with more living space and luxury amenities, check out these RV brands from some well-known Class B plus motorhome manufacturers.
Thor Gemini and Compass
Known as sister brands, Thor’s Gemini and Compass Class B plus campers are among the most popular brands you’ll find at Camping World. Each lineup features three unique floor plans built on an extended Ford Transit chassis.
These technology-forward Thor campers include wireless connectivity via Winegard’s Connect 2.0® system, off-grid capability with a 100-watt solar panel and 30-amp charge controller, and easy system monitoring with the Rapid Camp+® digital lighting and systems control display.
Winnebago Navion and View
The Winnebago Navion and View are also sister brands. Although they are technically categorized as Class C campers on the manufacturer’s website, their compact size and luxurious amenities make them worthy of comparison to other manufacturers’ Class B Plus motorhome floor plans.
Their three interior layouts offer something for everyone, ranging from an open concept with a Murphy bed to a spacious rear bedroom with twin beds that can convert to a single sleeping area. Built on a rear-wheel-drive Sprinter chassis, these Winnebago campers boast a 3.6Kw generator, two 100-watt solar panels, a 10 cubic-foot 12V refrigerator, and more.
Jayco Granite Ridge
For those looking for a rugged hybrid motorhome with loads of off-grid capability, Jayco’s Granite Ridge lineup is worth a second look. Built on a Ford Transit 350HD chassis, this durable Class B plus motorhome boasts helper springs and a rear stabilizer for added comfort when navigating highways or unpaved roads.
Both Granite Ridge floor plans boast a twin bed conversion in the rear bedroom, which is ideal for friends or couples who want to convert it to a large king-sized bed. With an all-wheel-drive chassis and a lift kit, this durable motorhome can handle more difficult terrain than many others, but you still get luxury features when you get to camp, such as a 2.8kW generator, a Winegard Connect 2.0® antenna, and 360 watts of roof-mounted solar panels.
Airstream Atlas
Airstream brings the same level of detail and construction quality you’ll find in their travel trailers to their Class B plus motorhomes. With a single floorplan built on a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis, the Atlas Touring Coach is one of Airstream’s most luxurious motorhomes.
The Atlas boasts a Murphy bed in the center of the floor plan. Nestled into a campside slide-out, the bed converts to a comfortable sofa during the day. While the bathroom is nearly an afterthought with many other manufacturers, Airstream gives you a truly residential rear bathroom with a neo-angle shower, a mirrored vanity, and hanging closet storage.
Learn more about our favorite Class B, B+, and small Class C RV brands:
- What Is The Best Class B RV for Full-Time Living?
- Van Builds vs Class B RVs: Which Are More Expensive?
- The All-New Eddie Bauer Motorhomes by Thor Motor Coach
What are you looking for in a compact motorhome? Let us know in the comments below.
