Class B motorhomes (or Class B RVs) are built in a van platform. In the past they were built on passenger van chassis (right) but Eurovan chassis have become more common as their market share increases. Class B motorhomes present several design challenges that make the cost surprisingly high. First, the RV amenities are built within the existing chassis and skin, which limits access for workers and fitment. (Other motorhomes are often built from the "ground up" with the walls and roof put on when needed.) Second, the available space is much smaller than on Class A or Class C. The payoff for Class B's is a more durable, leakproof motorhome with higher build quality.
PRO
- highly maneuverable, can be parked in normal parking spaces
- best MPG of motorhomes
- highest quality build
- best leak resistance due to steel body
CON
- expensive
- most expensive per square foot of living space
- can be tight for 2+ people
- limited standing space; often around 6'
Dropped floors
Some Class B vans have dropped floor sections that may increase effective standing room.
- RoadTreks (1998 - 2003[1])"have a 3" deep pan between the frame rails about 5' long by 32" wide".[2]. This is a drainage section for the in-aisle shower. When not in use the dropped floor has a cover so it looks like a normal floor. Taller folks may leave the pan exposed.
- Dodge Xplorer 224 models had a deeper dropped section near the side door, perhaps a foot deep.[3]
Class B+
(external image) These motorhomes blur the lines between large class B and small class C. They often have somewhat widened fiberglass body panels but lack the cabover sleeper that defines a class C.
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