Do You Need an AWD RV?

If you’re wondering if an all-wheel-drive (AWD) RV is your ideal choice, you’re not alone. They’ve gained popularity because of their superior handling of diverse and challenging terrain. Even if off-grid camping isn’t your cup of tea, all-wheel-drive motorhomes can offer safer travel, especially when you encounter snow and ice on the road. So, is an AWD RV van right for you? Let’s explore. 

Top AWD Sprinter Van Models

The Mercedes-Benz AWD Sprinter van has been a top chassis choice for manufacturers and DIY van builders. It’s reliable, luxurious, and has advanced technology that allows it to perform on and off the road. Let’s break down the tech you get when choosing a Mercedes Sprinter AWD RV. 

Electronic Stability Program: If you aren’t used to driving in winter weather (and even if you are), you get extra help keeping control of the RV during more challenging conditions like icy roads.

Advanced Safety Tech: It’s pretty standard for most vehicles to have braking, lane-keeping, and blind spot assists, but it’s still worth the call-out. The Sprinter also has crosswind assist! If you’ve driven a cargo van on an open, windy plain, you’ll know how much of a difference this can make.

360° Cameras: Squeeze into tight boondocking spots or back into your campsites confidently. The 360° view shows more than just the rear and lets you adjust your positioning on all sides without accidentally bumping into trees or rocks. Depending on the RV make and model, this feature may be included standard or an upgraded package. 

All that tech comes at a price. The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter AWD Class B RVs will be more expensive and pricier to maintain. If something goes wrong on the road, you’ll have more limited options for repair shops due to the specialty parts needed. The good news? AWD Sprinter vans are very reliable, so your chances of running into that problem are pretty slim!

Thor Eddie Bauer 19EB

Specs

• Length: 19’8”
• GVWR: 9,050 pounds

Compact and Lightweight

The Eddie Bauer 19EB is an excellent AWD Sprinter camper for someone who doesn’t want to worry about length restrictions on the road. This camper van under 20 feet boasts a power lift rear bed that converts to a garage for premier gear storage in a small motorhome. Here are some of our favorite features:

• Seating for up to 4 on the road
• Removable table for an optional workstation or dining area
• Portable cooktop for indoor/outdoor meal prep
• Diesel-powered furnace and water heater

Airstream Interstate 19X

Specs

• Length: 19’5”
• GVWR: 9,050 pounds

Built for the Minimalist

With a rugged exterior and flexible storage options, the Interstate 19X is designed for extreme adventures. The rear of the floor plan boasts comfortable bench seating and easily converts to a bed. Or, fold the seats up for open gear storage. Here are some of our favorite features:

• 5,000-pound towing capacity
• A simple, efficient interior that you can customize for your needs
• Optional front bed system
• 13,500 BTU air conditioning 

Thor Sanctuary & Tranquility

Specs

• Length: 19’8” to 24’4”
• GVWR:  9,050 to 11,030 pounds 

Six Floorplans All Under 25 Feet

Choose the layout that fits your needs with the Sanctuary and Tranquility from Thor. From a layout with twin sleepers that convert to a massive king-sized bed to a floor plan with a rear wet bath, these Mercedes Benz Sprinter AWD RVs offer plenty to choose from. Here a some of our favorite features:

• Can sleep up to 3
• 200W solar panels with 3000W Pure Sine inverter
• King bed in certain models
• Flexible storage options

Winnebago Revel 44E

Specs

• Length: 19’6”
• GVWR: 9,050 pounds

Power Lift Bed 

Big toy storage isn’t an issue in the Winnebago Revel with the power lift bed. Two bucket chairs behind the main cockpit also provide safe seating for up to four passengers, and the table makes this space seamlessly convert to a mobile workstation once you’re parked. Here are some of our favorite features:

• Adjustable table with lounge seating
• Countertop extension with built-in induction cooktop
• L-track tie-down system
• All-in-one gear closet and wet bath

Jayco Terrain 19Y

Specs

• Length: 19’7”
• GVWR:  9,050 pounds

Recessed Under-Bed Storage Bins

Another great AWD Sprinter for the gear junkie, the Terrain has under bed storage bins on both sides and a power lift bed. The 26” x 33” wet bath is one of the more sizable washrooms you’ll find in this RV type, and the rear screen door makes it easy to keep the interior cool without letting all the bugs in. Here are some of our favorite features:

• Large pantry
• Rugged under-bed flooring for tough gear
• 6 exterior paint finishes
• Starlink internet connection 

Entegra Coach Launch 19Y

Specs

• Length: 19’7”
• GVWR:  9,050 pounds

Sleek Modern Interior 

The Launch combines style and function with black leather seats and soft brown cabinets and flooring. The drop-down bed offers a substantial 750-pound weight capacity, and the upgraded Lithionics Battery^® system provides up to 7.9 kilowatt-hours of power for off-grid adventures. Here are some of our favorite features:

• Power lift bed with under bed gear storage
• Tecnoform^® pull-out kitchen countertop extension
• Water filtration system
• Aqua View^® SHOWERMI$ER^TM water management system 

Featured AWD Ford Transit Models

The Ford Transit AWD is another popular Class B RV for outdoor adventurers. A practical, reliable van chassis, the AWD Ford Transit offers the right balance of tech and performance-enhancing features. Let’s explore why it is so stable for RVers.

3.5L EcoBoost V6: This engine has all the power of a V8 but is much more fuel-efficient. The Transit’s EcoBoost engine is impressive. It handles climbs on tough mountain roads with relative ease and can go farther between stops at gas stations. Thanks to the turbocharger, it also has extra torque, which makes towing easier.

Intelligent AWD System: The RV automatically adjusts the power between its front and rear wheels to provide responsive traction on rugged terrain.

Ford Co-Pilot360^TM: Much like the safety packages on the AWD Sprinter vans, you get brake and lane-keeping assist. Ford’s safety features also include adaptive cruise control and automatic high-beam headlights. 

I really like the Ford Transit AWD platform. It is comfortable to drive, and it easily handled some steep climbs up the Sierra Nevadas on a trip my husband and I took. It’s also a much more affordable RV chassis to purchase and maintain. More auto technicians are certified to work on the Ford Transit AWD system if you run into any issues while on the road. 

Jayco Solstice 21B

Specs

• Length: 22’
• GVWR: 11,000 pounds

Heavy-Duty Tow Package

Haul a second small vehicle behind the Solstice with a dual-sided 4 or 7-pin connector. The rear of the floor plan features a 68” wide power sofa that easily converts to a 68” x 76” bed. Plus, the added length allows Jayco to fit a massive 25” x 46.75” wet bath in this Ford Transit AWD RV. Some of the other features we love:

• Foot flush toilet with black tank flush (No cassette toilet!)
• Power recline sofa that turns into a bed
• Large wardrobe and overhead storage
• Signature Jayco JRide^® handling package with Hellwig^® Helper Springs 

Coachmen Beyond

Specs

• Length: 22’2”
• GVWR: 10,360 pounds

Three Adaptable Floor Plans

Regardless of your choice, each Beyond floor plan packs everything you need in just 22 feet. All three of these Ford Transit AWD camper van models feature a wet bath, creative galley-style kitchen, convertible seating and sleeping areas, and a 195-watt solar panel with dual-charging capability. Here are some of the options we love:

• Two rear living options with convertible sofa options
• A full rear wet bath option with extra storage space for your wardrobe
• Truma Combi Eco Plus furnace and water heater
• Front and rear swivel tables

Entegra Coach Expanse 21B

Photos by Entegra Coach

Specs

• Length: 22’
• GVWR: 11,000 pounds

Luxury Interior Finishes

With sleek, bright, modern finishes, the Expanse feels like a residential home packed in under 25 feet. With two jump seats for safe passenger seating, a larger RV refrigerator, and a 200-watt roof-mounted solar panel, you’ll enjoy safe travels and longer stays with this Ford Transit van AWD motorhome. Here are some of our favorite features:

• Firefly Multiplex System to control settings from the touchpad or an app
• Multiple table mount workstations
• Fully powered sofa that transforms into a bed
• A wet bath with a black water tank 

Favorite Class B Plus RV AWD Models

Class B Plus RVs are a good choice if you want an AWD RV but need extra space. They are wider and longer than their Class B companions, making them one of the more popular choices for RVers.

Class B Plus AWD RVs are built on the Ford Transit or Mercedes-Benz Cutaway chassis, with the same engine features and functionality. However, RV manufacturers can create a completely custom rear build because they aren’t confined to the fully enclosed body of a traditional van. 

Winnebago View & Navion

Specs

• Length: 25’6”
• GVWR:  11,030 pounds

Three Floor Plans with Slide Options

Sleep up to four people in the Navion and View from Winnebago. The 24D is one of our favorite floor plans with a Murphy bed and a massive U-shaped dinette. Both lineups feature optional entertainment packages, creative storage solutions, and a standard 200-watt solar package. Here are some of our favorite features:

• Options for U-shaped dinette for extra seating
• Large slides that provide extra interior space
• Built on the Sprinter AWD Cutaway chassis
• Cross-coach exterior storage for large items

Thor Compass & Gemini

Specs

• Length: 23’7” to 25’10”
• GVWR:  11,000 pounds

Includes Three Slide Options

The Gemini AWD RV and Compass AWD RV have three different floor plans, all including a slide for extra interior space. The 23TW floor plan, with its easy flip-up queen bed, is certainly worth a closer look. All of these Thor AWD RVs feature a Wi-Fi router, 4G hotspot, and TV antenna for improved connectivity on the road. Here are some of the features we love:

• The 24KB model includes a twin-to-king bed conversion
• Large closet options in the 23TW and 24HG
• AdvanceTrac^® with RSC^® (roll stability control) for added safety 
• Hill start assist to make mountain climbs easier

Forest River Forester TS & Sunseeker TS

Specs

• Length: 25’6” to 26’1”
• GVWR: 10,360 pounds

Unique Floor Plans

Forest River always has unique ways of adapting to smaller spaces, and the Forester TS and Sunseeker TS are no exception. Despite barely eclipsing 26 feet, these AWD motorhomes boast creative floor plans with private sleeping areas, full dry bathrooms, and functional kitchenettes. Here are some of the features we love:

• Choose between gas vs diesel RV engines
• The TS2380 floorplan includes a corner kitchen and front cab dining area 
• The TS2370 floorplan includes a slide
• Large wardrobe options in either model

Winnebago Ekko & Ekko Sprinter

Photos by Winnebago

Specs

• Length: 23’0” to 24’6”
• GVWR: 11,000 to 11,030 pounds

Choose Your Chassis

Go with the classic Ford chassis on the Ekko, or opt for the Mercedes-Benz Ekko Sprinter. The Ekko boasts one of the industry’s largest storage garages on a Class B Plus RV, with exterior accessibility for easily loading e-bikes and other recreation equipment. Here are some of the features we love: 

• Optional pop-top for added sleeping capacity
• Large exterior gear storage for big toys
• Multi-function lounge set-up on the Sprinter chassis
• All weather prep for winter terrain

Jayco Granite Ridge

Specs

• Length: 23’5” to 24’8”
• GVWR:  11,000 to 11,030 pounds

Work From The Road

With functional setting arrangements in both floorplans, the Granite Ridge is a perfect RV for full-time living. Choose the 22T built on a Ford Transit chassis or the 23S built on a Mercedes Benz Sprinter chassis. Some of the other features we love:

• Both floorplans feature king-bed conversions
• Add on an optional rear awning for more shaded relaxation
• Heated gear garage with L-track and two 120V charging ports
• Starlink satellite internet system 

Is an AWD Motorhome Worth It?

Let’s clarify something—AWD RVs and 4×4 vehicles aren’t exactly the same. So, if you are considering taking your AWD Class B RV on the Broken Arrow Trail in Sedona, maybe we should replan the route.

But just because you won’t be off-roading doesn’t mean there aren’t significant advantages to an all-wheel-drive Class B campervan. AWD motorhomes shine when you encounter rough or slippery conditions, like unpaved mountain roads, snowy and icy climates, or sandy desert trails. You’ll get better traction and stability, which can be game-changers for more adventurous RVers. 

AWD Class B RVs also allow the ability to reach more remote trails and campsites. With the extra driving power, boondocking is easier to navigate, and you’ll have more options for spots than those in two-wheel drive RVs. If all of these scenarios match your RVing goals, an AWD motorhome is worth the investment. 

Whether you drive through rugged terrain or want more options for boondocking, an AWD Class B RV is always a great investment. Check out more about Class B and campervan travel with us. 

• Which Class B RV Sleeps 4?
• Is a Class B RV Right for Me?
• What is the Best Class B RV for Couples?
• Top 10 Van Camper Lessons for Beginners

What are your favorite AWD Class B RV features? Tell us in the comments.

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