What You Need to Know About Ford Transit Vans

Aubrey
A Ford Transit Sanctuary driving across a bridge
Ford Transit camper vans can easily handle rough terrain

If you’re in the market for a Class B motorhome, you’ve probably noticed the debate on which chassis is best for van life. The Ford Transit, Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Ram ProMaster camper vans are soaring in popularity and all chassis options are great in their own unique ways. Several factors can help your decision on what chassis is best for you and your adventures. This is the first of a three-part series looking at the top three camper van chassis by Ford, Mercedes-Benz and Ram. We will dive into the Ford Transit camper van chassis and how it’s driving the #vanlife movement.

History of the Ford Transit Van

Ford has been around since 1903, leading innovation in the automotive industry worldwide for more than a century. In fact, the Ford Transit is the oldest cargo van built, compared to the Ram ProMaster and Mercedes Sprinter, and has gone through multiple generations. In 1965, Ford introduced the Transit, also known as the T-Series, as a cargo van in the European market. However, it wasn’t until 2014 that Ford presented the fourth generation of the Transit chassis to the United States. People loved converting Transits into RVs and Ford took notice, acting on the popular movement and manufacturing the beloved chassis for RV companies.

 What is the Ford Transit Van Chassis?

The cab of the Ford Transit

The Ford Transit is one of the most popular lightweight commercial vehicle chassis that Ford manufactures, making it a great chassis for camper vans. The Ford Transit camper van drives very similarly to a cargo van, even with the added weight of all the motorhome essentials. You will find it comfortable to drive with the shorter front end and the familiarity in the driver’s seat and dashboard. These vans are also not so high off the ground and have AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control and side-wind stabilization. These features greatly improve stability and control, while maintaining a smooth, comfortable ride. Transit camper vans are also very easy to maneuver and have a tighter turning radius.

In 2020, Ford introduced all-wheel drive and a 10-speed automatic overdrive transmission for the Transit van chassis, making it a popular choice for camper vans. The Transit van also features 310 horsepower and 400 ft-lb of torque for handling everything from straight plains to rugged mountains with ease. Almost all RV manufacturers produce their camper vans with the AWD Transit van for tough terrain. That same year, Ford also introduced adaptive cruise control and pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking (AEB). This is helpful if you are in the wilderness and animals cross your path or in the city with pedestrians.

Inside the Transit van cab, you will have an AM/FM stereo with Bluetooth, as well as a large digital display. The Transit is also equipped with the FordPass Connect, an app that allows you to check important stats of your camper van, remotely start and stop it, as well as a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot and more. A great thing about camper vans is that the front driver and passenger seats swivel around for added seating room, and many floorplans have removable tables for these seats.

How Does the Ford Transit Van Compare to Other Camper Van Chassis?

A family staring up at the stars around a campfire. Their Thor Sanctuary 19PT is in the background lit by the fire.
The Ford Transit is perfect for small families and couples

Ford Transit Van Price Comparison

If you’re looking for a new camper van, the price can range from around $100,000 MSRP to over $250,000 MSRP. If you’re looking for a lower-priced gas motorhome, the Ford Transit and Ram ProMaster are great B van options. The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter has a higher price point for camper vans; however, diesel camper vans do start at a higher price compared to gas.

Ford Transit Gas Camper Vans vs. Diesel Alternatives

There are pros and cons to gas and diesel camper vans. The Ford Transit camper van is a gas fuel type like the Ram ProMaster and is available in a gas or diesel option depending on the year and make of the RV. Diesel camper vans like the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, have better fuel efficiency than gas camper vans. Diesel engines can also last longer if properly maintained. On the other hand, gas engine RVs have a lower initial price point. They’re also cheaper at the pump, and there are more fuel stations available compared to diesel. An added bonus is that engine repair and maintenance cost less.

Ford Transit Camper Van Power & Towing

The Ford Transit features AWD as well as options for rear-wheel drive camper vans. The ProMaster camper van is front-wheel drive and the Sprinter camper van has a rear-wheel drive. 4WD is also an option that is available for many new Sprinter camper vans. A great thing about the AWD option in the Transit camper van is that you don’t have to think about when to enable the traction needed. Like a car, AWD and 4WD also provide great handling in the snow and heavy rain.

The Ford Transit camper van chassis boasts 400 ft-lb of torque and 310 horsepower, which is more than both the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Ram ProMaster camper van chassis. This power is important to get your RV moving and keep it moving over rough terrain.

The towing capacity can vary on camper vans, however, most have the capacity to easily haul a small trailer for a motorcycle, kayak or lightweight toys. Some camper vans can even tow up to 5,000 lbs. for heavier machines you want to take on your adventures. Camper vans also include great features like bike racks, gear racks on the roof or cargo storage inside.

Diesel camper vans can pull more weight and easily take on mountains and rougher terrain where gas camper vans might struggle. Even though class B RVs have less towing capacity than larger RVs, you can still tow a small trailer with a powerful enough engine. Diesel camper vans like the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van have a higher towing capacity, but there is more upkeep and routine maintenance needed.

Ford Transit Camper Van Repair & Maintenance

With the Ford Transit camper van, there is a lower maintenance cost to keep your motorhome running longer. Because the Ford Transit is a gas motorhome, you’ll save money on maintenance costs. With more than 3,000 Ford dealerships and 600 commercial vehicle centers (including 14 General RV Center locations), preventative service, repairs, parts and labor can be found nationwide. Stuck on the road? There are 800 mobile service vans ready to assist.

Ford Transit Camper Vans You Can Buy Right Now

Coachmen RV Beyond Transit Camper Van

{"slidestoshow":3,"slidestoscroll":1,"dots":"true","arrows":"true","autoplay":"true","autoplay_interval":3000,"speed":300,"loop":"true","lazyload":""}

The Beyond is built for adventurous RVers. This gas camper van is 22 ft. 2 in. long and features three floorplans to choose from, with AWD and RWD options. The 22C features a lay-flat sofa at the rear, while the 22D has two facing sofas that convert into a large bed. The 22RB has a wet bath in the rear and two twin beds that are perfect for camping with friends. All the floorplans have a wet bath, galley and tons of overhead cabinets for storage. To learn more, check out this RV overview for even more features and benefits of the Beyond Transit camper van.

Thor Motor Coach Sanctuary Transit Camper Van

The Sanctuary 19PT and 19LT camper vans are great options for off-grid camping. Both floorplans are 19 ft. 7 in. in length and have great layouts for couples and solo campers. The 19PT features a foldout sofa in the rear, with a removable table and overhead cabinets. There is also a large refrigerator, sink, microwave and two-burner gas cooktop. The 19LT has a spacious bed in the rear of the camper van. Plus, there is additional seating with a removable table, as well as a large refrigerator, microwave and sink. Both floorplans have a spacious wet bath with a cassette toilet. The Sanctuary also comes in the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis for a great diesel B van option.

Thor Motor Coach Gemini AWD Camper Van

{"slidestoshow":3,"slidestoscroll":1,"dots":"true","arrows":"true","autoplay":"true","autoplay_interval":3000,"speed":300,"loop":"true","lazyload":""}

The Gemini is a Class B + RV that’s built for the long haul. This camper van is 24 ft. to 26 ft. long, depending on the three models available. All three floorplans have a slide out for more room to move, tons of storage space and a full bath. The 23TE features plenty of room with the rear bath and spacious floorplan. A Murphy bed folds up to reveal a comfortable sofa with a removable table for dining. The Gemini AWD 23TW has a larger slide-out for more room. There is a flip-up queen bed with a couch underneath, as well as a dream dinette for additional sleeping space. Last but not least is the 24KB floorplan. This camper van has a rear bedroom with two twins that can convert into a king bed. This gives you a great option for camping trips with friends or loved ones.

Interested in learning more about Class B motorhomes? Check out this Class B RV buyers guide for helpful information. The camper van experts at General RV can also help you find the perfect Transit camper van. Our online showroom is always open and our internet sales specialists can answer all your questions via text or chat. Prefer to explore Class B motorhomes in person? Visit one of our RV dealers near you today.

Camp without compromise in Keystone’s Wheelchair Accessible Outback RV

Sara
Keystone RV’s Wheelchair Accessible Outback 342CG

Make sure every camper can come along on your next adventure with Keystone RV’s new wheelchair accessible Outback 342CG. Designed with accessibility in mind, this premium toy hauler accommodates travelers with physical disabilities while still providing versatile garage space.  When the luxury trailer first hit the market, two leading RV publications named it 2021’s Best Model of the Year. Like other models in the Outback line, the 342CG delivers the built-for-the-long-haul quality you expect, along with some exclusive innovations.

As an RV designed using the direction and oversight of disability advocates, Keystone ensures campers can enjoy luxury and explore the world without obstacles. Sitting 38’ long and over 11’ tall, the Outback can sleep up to eight with plenty of room leftover for all the toys campers could need for their next adventure.

An RV built for accessibility with plenty of room for everything you need

An accessible toy hauler perfect for campers with physical disabilities.

Wheelchairs can easily move in and out of the Keystone Outback thanks to a 54” wide extended ramp and adjustable legs. The extension lowers the ramp grade, allowing the ramp to sit at the natural point of ingress and egress for wheelchair users. Able to hold up to 1,000 pounds, the gentle incline also makes it easier for travelers to load their motorcycles, ATVs and even golf carts. The handy D-Rings installed on the floor make sure your toys will not move during transport. If you need even more space, the cargo bunk beds fold up so you can store more. Whether you like to spend your days paddling on a crisp, clear lake or want to tear up the forest trails on your dirt bike – there is plenty of room for your adventure essentials.

A luxurious RV interior redesigned for comfort and accessibility

A reimagined floorplan to camp without compromise.

Keystone redesigned the Outback floorplan to allow a standard wheelchair to traverse the space without obstacles. Designers opted for barn doors instead of hinged doors to help wheelchair users move easily from room to room. The main doorframe is 30” wide, so it works with an aftermarket wheelchair lift. Keystone also slimmed down the entertainment center wall so a wheelchair can freely move into the living room from the garage. A wider and shallower pantry gives those with limited reach mobility the ability to access all they need.

Space for everyone — and then some — in your toy hauler 

Every camper can come along in the 342CG with space for eight.  The front cargo garage holds flip-down bunk beds, while the living space has a sofa sleeper, a booth dinette and a king-sized bed. The space is perfect for large families or a trip with friends. With a built-in kennel in the primary suite, even the furriest campers have a special place to stay.

Inside the Outback, campers will experience the royal treatment. The private suite comes with under bed storage, overhead storage, a floor-to-ceiling wardrobe and a dresser. The Outback includes bedside outlets and USB ports, too, so you never have to worry about finding power.

You can make the space even more luxurious with a TV hook-up. The private suite also comes with a separate entrance to avoid the traffic in the living space.

Bring the comforts of your accessible home on the road

The sleek, modern kitchen is perfect for prepping, cooking and packing up your meals. Solid surface countertops and a flip-up feature give you space to prep your next culinary masterpiece. The 10 cu. ft. 12V GE refrigerator in the Outback cools faster than other models and is designed to keep your food safe while traveling on the road. There is no need to worry about putting ice in the coolers. The 21’ Furrion stove has a three-burner gas range to help you cook up something great. After enjoying your meal, the deep, single basin stainless steel sink, with a high-rise faucet and pull out sprayer, makes cleaning up a breeze.

The bathroom includes a full porcelain toilet. The sliding barn door also makes it easier for wheelchairs to move in and out. Campers can clean off in the 30” x 40” step-in shower. There is also room for all your toiletries on the expanded bathroom counter.

The all-new matte black interior features modern and sleek designs that gives a relaxing vibe. With neutral furniture, brushed gold hardware and light wallboard, the interior gives off an elegant and cozy look. After listening to customer responses, Keystone removed all carpet from this model opting instead for hyper deck flooring. The water resistant, fiberglass backed linoleum is perfect for campers with dogs or kids who may forget to wipe their feet at the door. The Tru-Fit slide construction creates a seamless interior ideal for wheelchair maneuverability.

Hit the road with confidence all year

Exclusive Blade Pure System

The Outback is ready for adventure, any time of the year. For the summer, Keystone has the Blade Pure design, an upgraded airflow system that combines air filtration and quieter technology. The system can produce 20% more airflow in the cabin. The dual-ducted racetrack A/C system pushes air through the rig in a circular pattern via two ducts for maximum efficiency and cooling – quickly dropping the accessible RV’s temperature on sweltering days. When temperatures dip, the Outback has you covered. The underbelly is fully heated and enclosed with Astrofoil insulation to maintain temperatures. The Outback also has added heating pad protection to help prevent fresh and waste water tanks from freezing.

Convenience features that make the Outback toy hauler built to last

Designed with ease in mind, the Outback has many features that make it easier for all travelers to set up camp. It’s equipped with the BAL Norco 5.1 stabilizing system. Instead of manually moving each leveling jack, the RV can do it at the push of a button. Maintenance is a breeze thanks to Keystone’s color-coded 12V wiring. The system has easy-to-trace circuits that help dealer service techs troubleshoot and complete repairs quickly, saving owners time and money. Other notable features that make the Outback adventure-ready:

  • Lightweight, corrosion-resistant Norco BAL frame
  • Leaf spring suspension
  • Painted fiberglass front cap w/ LED strip lights and rock guard
  • Fully walkable 3/8’ roof decking with rear ladder
  • Double welded dual battery brackets w/ battery disconnect
  • Continuous charge through SolarFlex200

See the accessible Keystone Outback 342CG at General RV

Accessible RV designs make life easier for everyone. The universal designs used in the Outback toy hauler can help campers of all abilities enjoy the great outdoors. Visit your local General RV dealer today to see the Outback 342CG in person. To learn more, visit  GeneralRV.com to learn more. Still searching for your perfect toy hauler? The RV experts at General RV Center can answer all your questions and provide recommendations for your perfect camper. Remember to subscribe to the General RV blog for more tips, reviews and recommendations.

Elite RV Luxury in the New Heartland Big Country Fifth Wheel

Shawn Verbruggen
2023 Heartland RV Big Country fifth wheel

Our country is one big adventure, and you can explore it all with the new Big Country fifth wheel from Heartland RV. Each Big Country fifth wheel is designed with your budget in mind. It is engineered for the perfect balance of luxury and practicality. With the best features in its class, this fifth wheel RV has all the comforts of home with plenty of room to roam. Spacious floorplans deliver a residential look and feel for the ultimate RV experience. General RV offers several unique floorplans to fit every family’s needs, including the popular 3155 RLK.

Feel right at home in the Big Country fifth wheel

Expansive living area with power theater seating and tri-fold sleeper sofa
Entertainment center with 55-inch TV and 40-inch fireplace

Elegance and class greet you when you first step inside the Big Country. Immediately, the all-in-one touchscreen master control welcomes you. It gives you complete control of tank monitors, slides and light switches. On your left, relax and unwind in the expansive kitchen, dining and living space. A tri-fold sleeper sofa at the rear of the RV, as well as power theater seating with heat and massage, provide ultimate comfort around the entertainment center with a 55-inch TV and built-in 40-inch electric fireplace. Super USB charging ports and wireless charging stations throughout the Big Country help ensure your electronic devices stay energized and connected. This is especially useful for larger groups or anyone looking to work remotely. High-end woven flooring in the dining and living area slide outs make it easy to maintain and clean. They are also pet friendly and antimicrobial.

Cook with confidence in the Big Country fifth wheel’s complete kitchen

  • Complete residential kitchen with designer island
Dining table with stand-alone chairs
Full access to living/entertainment area
Farmhouse-style sink
Glass inserts in cabinetry

The kitchen may be the true showstopper of the Big Country. The most noticeable feature is the designer island with a built-in, single basin, farmhouse-style sink, roll-up sink cover and residential sprayer faucet. You will feel like you are cooking at home with the 21 cubic-foot residential refrigerator, 30-inch microwave and 3.7 cubic-foot residential oven and gas cooktop. All Big Country fifth wheels also come equipped with a full-size pantry and stained hardwood cabinetry and fascia with soft close cabinet doors and drawers for an elegant feel. There’s even a separate coffee bar area next to the pantry, providing even more counter space to work with.

You’ll also find an abundance of LED lighting throughout to brighten up the interior with a more open feel. The dining table with free-standing chairs offers a comfortable space for eating, playing games or even getting a little work done. A mixture of small and large windows provide expansive views throughout the rear and right-hand side of this fifth wheel.

Sophisticated bathroom design adds style to the Big Country fifth wheel

  • Full bathroom with primary suite access

To the right of the entrance, a short climb up the stairs will lead you to the full bathroom. The one-piece fiberglass shower with luxury glass surround also features a tall ceiling height of 6-feet 4-inches, adding extra height that is often a coveted feature for many RVers. A large medicine cabinet provides storage for all of your bathroom essentials. The grey water tank capacity of 90 gallons and a 65-gallon, fresh-water tank will allow you to take those extended trips with little worry.

Leisure meets luxury in the RV’s primary suite

Primary suite at front of Big Country fifth wheel
Walk-in wardrobe and dresser for storage with closet for washer/dryer hookup
Underbed storage in primary king bed

Rest and relaxation await in the Big Country’s primary suite at the front of the fifth wheel. Sleep easy on the large king bed. Additionally, storage space can be found in every corner of the primary suite. A wide walk-in wardrobe with sliding glass doors allows you to pack those extra outfits. Also, a large closet provides hookups for a stackable washer and dryer. More drawers for storage are located at the foot of the bed and there’s also storage space underneath the bed. Several windows provide plenty of light during the day and overhead reading lights will keep the room bright at night.

Take home on the road with the Big Country fifth wheel

2023 Heartland RV Big Country fifth wheel
Exterior storage provides for easy unloading
Pass-through storage compartment allows for extra gear

The Heartland Big Country fifth wheel packs the comforts of home into an easy-to-tow RV with added convenience for your travels. The innovative exterior storage design includes three points of access. This provides easy loading and unloading, as well as ease of access to exterior entertainment hookups. Insulated slam-style cargo doors with magnetic hold backs keep the storage compartments sealed and safe.

The universal exterior docking station combines all hookups, dump valves, flush, cable and satellite ports, shower and winterization access – all in one convenient and concealed compartment. A six-point hydraulic landing gear and auto level system make set-up and tear down a breeze. The dual Whisper Quiet A/C system provides 30,000 BTUs of cooling power. It keeps the Big Country comfortable on the hottest of days. Independent thermostats for each A/C unit allows for personalized comfort and ease of control. Relax with a movie or some music with the high output entertainment system with DVD, HDMI and Bluetooth. Azdel laminated sidewalls with lightweight non-wood substrate provide increased insulation against exterior sounds and weather to maximize comfort and coziness.

An RV built for safety on the road and at camp

2023 Heartland RV Big Country fifth wheel

Not only does the Big Country fifth wheel take away your worries at the campsite, but it eases anxieties on the trip there, as well. The MORryde 3000 suspension and Dexter NEV-R-ADJUST brake system provides 50 percent better stopping power. G14-rated 16-inch tires with aluminum rims and leaf springs roll down the road on 70,000-pound industry-leading axles with Easy-Lube hubs. Plus, an upgraded Rota Flex pin box works to prevent back-and-forth lurching, known as trailer chucking — an all-too common occurrence for fifth-wheel owners.

Tour the new Heartland Big Country fifth wheel at General RV today

The Heartland Big Country fifth wheel is the perfect RV for families looking for extra comfort and convenience at the campsite and for full-time RVers living life on the road. Visit your nearest General RV dealer today to see for yourself just how impressive the new Heartland Big Country fifth wheel is in person. Likewise, you can visit us at GeneralRV.com to learn more. Are you still looking for your perfect fifth wheel or travel trailer? Perhaps smaller towable RVs are better suited for you. The RV experts at General RV can answer all your questions and provide recommendations based on your unique needs. For more RV reviews and recommendations, please subscribe to the General RV Blog.

General RV Provides an Insider Look At the Best Class A Luxury RVs

Shawn Verbruggen

Class A RVs are the pinnacle of luxury. These large recreational vehicles allow travelers to explore the country without sacrificing comfort. Equipped with state-of-the-art technology, premium amenities and ample space, a Class A RV can be the perfect ticket to freedom. These luxury Class A diesel motorhomes have made it to the top of our list for their premium comfort and reliability. Backed by trusted RV manufacturer names, any one of these RVs is an excellent investment in the future of luxury travel.

In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at several luxury Class A diesel motorhomes, in stock at General RV, including highlights of their top features and how these kings of comfort bring first-class convenience to the campsite. Use the links in our table of contents to jump to the Class A RV you want to see. Ready to shop now? Check out our current deals on luxury Class A RVs.

Top 6 List of General RV’s Favorite Class A Luxury RVs

Read more →