What is an A-class Motorhome?
If you’ve been dreaming about hitting the wide open road in style and comfort, then an A-class motorhome might be for you. You may be wondering, what is an A-class motorhome? Well, buckle up, as in this blog, we’ll dive into the world of A-class motorhomes, exploring their distinctive features, amenities, and what sets them apart from other leisure vehicles.
At Auto Finance, we know that understanding your options is one of the most crucial first steps to make when choosing your dream motorhome. Thankfully, we make motorhome finance easy, ensuring a smooth journey wherever you’re heading.
Ready to find out about A-class motorhomes? Let’s get into it…
What is an A-class motorhome in the UK?
So, what exactly is an A-class motorhome? To put it simply, motorhomes come in three different classes: A-class, B-class, and C-class. The ‘class’ of a motorhome refers to a general categorisation that is based on the chassis and construction style, which can affect the size, features, and overall feel of the vehicle.
Unlike any other type of RVS that utilise existing vans or truck chassis, an A-class model is built on a custom-designed chassis, providing a robust and integrated structure. And, unlike smaller motorhomes, these vehicles have a flat front, large panoramic windows, and an incredibly spacious interior.
A-class motorhomes are generally the largest and most expensive type of RV or motorhome. Their big size can impact manoeuvrability and fuel efficiency, which are important factors to consider when planning your adventures. A lot of A-class motorhomes also come with ‘slide-outs’, which expand the living space when parked, allowing you to enjoy extra room for sleeping, dining, and lounging, while still having a compact design for road travel.
Technical specifications of an A-class motorhome
Before you make the investment into an A-class motorhome, it is important to understand its key features, including its size, weight, and length. Known for being large and luxurious, an A-class motorhome offers plenty of space and high-end amenities. Here’s what you can expect from a more technical side:
Length – Class A motorhomes are the largest type of motorhome, with lengths ranging from 28 to 45 feet. This extra space allows for larger internal living spaces, better storage, and extra features. The most popular length for A-class A motorhome is around 33 feet, an ideal length for offering a balance of space and driveability.
Height – Most A-class motorhomes have a height of 11 to 13 feet, making them much taller than other motorhome classes. This provides more headroom inside, giving the interior a spacious, open feel. However, this also means that you need to be wary of height restrictions in tunnels and car parks!
Weight – The weight of an A-class A motorhome varies from 3.5 tonnes to over 7.5 tonnes, depending on its size and features. Heavier models often have stronger engines and better stability, but they may require a special driving licence. Always check the weight rating to ensure you can legally drive it.
Sleeping capacity – One of the biggest advantages of an A-class motorhome is its high sleeping capacity. Most models will comfortably sleep between 4 to 8 people, with some bigger models accommodating up to 10 travellers. This is because of features like fixed beds, convertible lounges, and drop-down beds.
Tank capacity – If you enjoy off-grid camping, then tank capacity is essential for self-sufficient travel. Freshwater tanks will range from 80 to 150 gallons, a grey water tank holds used water from sinks and showers, and a black water tank stores toilet waste, which is especially important for long journeys.
What are the typical features of an A-class motorhome?
Designed to provide all the comforts of your home while on the road, an A-class motorhome offers some incredible high-end features, spacious interiors, and modern conveniences to make travelling as comfortable as possible. Some of the key features and amenities to expect are:
- A full-sized kitchen with a fridge, oven, stove, and sink
- Spacious lounge area with comfortable seating and a dining table
- Bathroom with a toilet, shower, and sink
- Large sleeping areas
- Entertainment systems with TV and speakers
- Smart home controls for lighting, temperature, and security
- Ample storage compartments for luggage, equipment, and supplies
Advantages and disadvantages of Class A motorhomes
As you may have noticed, an A-class motorhome offers incredible comfort, space, and luxury, but is it truly the right vehicle for you? While an A-class is the perfect choice for long trips and full-time living, it also comes with higher costs and considerations. Let’s look at the advantages and disadvantages in a bit more detail.
Advantages of an A-class motorhome
- Spacious and comfortable – This means more room for sleeping, cooking, and relaxing
- Self-contained travel – It includes all the amenities that you could need to create a home away from home
- Luxury features – Most Class A’s boast high-end finishes, slide-outs, and entertainment systems
- High sleeping capacity – Ideal for families, couples, or groups of friends
Disadvantages of an A-class motorhome
- Expensive to buy and maintain – More luxurious features come at a high cost
- Large and heavy – A bigger vehicle is harder to park, manoeuvre, and store
- Lower fuel efficiency – Bigger engines consume more fuel per mile
- Licence restrictions – Heavier models may require a special licence to drive
What is the difference between an A-class and a B class motorhome?
While both class A and class B motorhomes offer great amenities and features, the main difference lies in their chassis and construction. Class A’s are built on a dedicated motorhome chassis, often a heavy-duty frame that is similar to those used for buses or large trucks. Class B motorhomes, however, are built within the existing chassis and body of a van. They are typically known as camper vans or conversion vans.
Class A motorhomes are also the largest of the motorhome family, while Class B’s are known for being the smallest. You also have Class C motorhomes, which have a dedicated space called an over cab for sleeping above the driving area.
To help you decide which constructed vehicle is for you, have a read of our blog: Panel Van Conversions Vs Coach Built Motorhomes for more information.
Is an A-class motorhome easy to drive?
While it may initially seem daunting to drive an A-class motorhome due to its size, it’s generally not that difficult to drive. Many designs come with features like power steering, automatic transmissions, and rear-view cameras, all there to assist you with driving and tricky parking. However, it might take a bit of time to get used to. With enough practice and patience, most drivers find them pretty manageable on the road.
Head out onto the road with an Auto Finance loan
Hopefully, this blog has answered your question: ‘What is an A-class motorhome?’ Essentially, an A-class motorhome is one of the most luxurious and largest types of motorhome, representing the comfort of your own home on wheels. Ideal for travellers who prioritise comfort, an A-class motorhome is an excellent choice for families or large groups who are passionate about adventures and spending quality time outdoors.
If you’re looking for luxury vehicle finance, then you’re in the right place. At Auto Finance, we’ll do all the hard work for you, liaising directly with the UK’s top dealers to secure your dream motorhome at the best possible price. Have a look at our budget calculator to see how much your monthly repayments will cost you for as long as you require the vehicle.
Get in touch and secure your vehicle finance today!
Discover more…
Get a Quote
payments of
Cash price £15,000, deposit £0, total amount of credit £15,000, term 7 years, 84 monthly payments of £244.99, on a hire purchase agreement, option to purchase fee £1, total amount payable £20,578.77, representative APR 9.9%, rate of interest 9.9% fixed.
Rates may differ as they are dependent on individual circumstances. Subject to status.