Is an RV in your future? Time to learn more about the brands, types of RVs, and how they stack up. First in the process is determining what type of RV fits your needs. Not sure what type is right for you? Check out the Top 5 Types of RVs.
Further in the process are important questions to be answered, such as the Top 4 Questions to Answer When Considering an RV Purchase. Finally, once the usage, budget, and other needs are determined, it’s time to start researching brands, makes, and models.
Much like cars or hotels, there is an RV brand for everyone. The hard part is figuring out the right brand, make, or model. Common questions include: How do brands differ from each other? What makes one RV more expensive than another? How do the various RV brands compare to car or hotel brands? There are endless questions, and hopefully, the next section will answer these and assist in putting things in perspective.
Forest River
A division of Berkshire Hathaway is one of the largest and most diverse manufacturers. Forest River offers several affordable RV brands from towables and fifth wheels and all motorized classes. Brands include Coachman, Dynamax, Forest River, Palamino, Prime-Time, Shasta, and East to West.
Forest River overall compares to Holiday Inn. Some brands being more no-frills, like Holiday Inn Express. Other brands in the portfolio are comparable to the full-service hotel locations. Generally, these brands are a solid value, good reputation, and have various upgrade options available.
Rev Group
Consisting of seven brands manufacturing everything from towables to luxury Class A diesel. The brands include Fleetwood, Holiday Rambler, American Coach, Monaco, Renegade RV, Midwest Automotive Design, and Lance Camper. A diverse group of brands offering hundreds of options, models, and floor plans to fit any budget.
Rev Group would most likely compare the Marriott Corporation. Offering a variety of brands from entry-level for the price-conscious all the way up to the luxury properties comparable with a JW Marriott or Ritz Carlton. Examples include:
- Fleetwood and Holiday Rambler – sister brands that are similar to a Marriott or Sheraton. A long history and reputation of having a solid build quality.
- American Coach really knows how to bring the luxury and superior quality and comparable to a JW Marriott or Ritz Carlton.
Thor Industries
One of the largest manufacturers with several brands ranging from the iconic Airstream, legendary Jayco, Keystone, and several other brands specializing in towables and fifth wheels. Entegra luxury motorhomes were acquired in 2008, adding to the portfolio of brands. This acquisition expanded the lineup of driveable coaches offered by Thor. The diversity of brands Thor Industries offers everything from entry-level and budget-friendly to more deluxe models with lots of bells and whistles.
No matter what site you are on or the social media group you follow, there will always be horror stories about the Thor brand. However, for every 5 bad stories, there is a good one or two. In short, the build quality consistency, especially for new models, is pretty sub-par. Additionally, there isn’t much quality control on the assembly line. Message boards and social media sites are filled with posts from owners venting frustrations with the quality of the Thor brand in particular.
As far as comparable hotel or car brands, Thor aligns pretty closely with General Motors. They offer entry-level brands such as Chevy. These are affordable for everyone, and within the brands, there are basic models and deluxe. Additionally, the iconic Buick brand harkens to the equally iconic Airstream. Finally, Thor Industries goes all the way up to the Cadillac of brands with their Entegra coaches.
Tiffin
A family-owned high-end manufacturer specializing in Class A diesel pushers offering a variety of models and floor plans. Known for high-end finishes, hands-on customer service, and solid build quality, it’s no surprise that Tiffin earns high marks and has an extensive repeat customer business.
Similar to a Four Seasons hotel experience or driving a luxury car such as a Range Rover. Tiffin coaches are manufactured using high-quality materials. Additionally, they offer an exceptional customer service experience.
Winnebago
One of the most recognized names in the RV industry, manufacturing high-quality units since 1958. Winnebago emphasizes customer service and innovation, the long, storied reputation as a name you can trust. Offering all types of RVs, from towables and fifth wheels to drivable motorhomes. In 2018 Winnebago acquired Newmar, a luxury motor home manufacturer known for its quality and design.
Winnebago manufactures all its products under its brand name, with the only exception being Newmar. Similar to driving a BMW or Mercedes, these long, storied brands provide extraordinary quality and workmanship at an exceptional value.
Final Thoughts
Within each of these companies, various makes and models range from entry-level, budget-friendly to high-end luxury. Keep in mind, what is considered high-end for one brand may be budget for another and vice versa. Therefore, it’s important to understand what each of the brands offers. In addition, the quality of the craft and materials used varies widely from manufacturers and brands. Finally, always check on the warranty offered and read reviews for the make/model you are considering.
