Which conversion van has the best gas mileage?
Among common gas-powered conversion vans, Ford Transit-based conversions equipped with the 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine typically deliver the best gas mileage, with highway figures roughly in the mid-20s mpg. Real-world results vary based on weight, roof height, and added amenities.
This article compares the main chassis options used for conversion vans, explains how fuel economy is affected by a conversion, and offers practical tips to maximize efficiency. It covers typical ranges you might see in current market offerings (as of 2024–2025) and helps readers set expectations when shopping for a fuel-efficient option.
What affects fuel economy in a conversion van?
Fuel economy in a conversion van is influenced by the van’s base platform (Transit, Sprinter, ProMaster, etc.), the engine type (gas vs. diesel), vehicle weight from the conversion, aerodynamics, roof height, and added amenities. Heavier interiors, larger roofs, and extra insulation can dramatically lower mpg, while engine technology, lighter materials, and careful weight management can raise it. The market generally sees the best gas mileage from lighter, efficiently engineered chassis paired with modern turbocharged gasoline engines.
Chassis options and typical mpg ranges
The following figures reflect common gas-engine configurations used in modern production or aftermarket conversion vans. Actual mileage varies with payload, driving style, and equipment installed in the conversion.
- Ford Transit-based conversions with the 2.0L EcoBoost gas engine: typically around 25–28 mpg on the highway in lighter configurations; city mpg is lower, and real-world results depend on payload and roof height.
- Mercedes-Benz Sprinter-based conversions with the 2.0L turbo gas (and other gas options): generally in the 20–25 mpg range on highways, with variations based on transmission, drivetrain, and overall weight.
- Ram ProMaster-based conversions with the 3.6L V6 gas engine: often lower than Transit or Sprinter in highway mpg, roughly in the 17–22 mpg range depending on load and roof height.
Note that these ranges are approximate and reflect typical configurations sold or converted in recent years. Diesel versions (where available) can deliver higher highway efficiency, but the question focuses on gasoline-powered setups.
Best bets for mpg by chassis
Ford Transit-based conversion vans
The Transit’s lightweight aluminum construction for some variants, combined with the 2.0L EcoBoost turbocharged engine, often yields the strongest gas mileage among common conversion van options. When paired with careful weight management and aerodynamic roof configurations, Transit-based conversions can approach the mid-20s mpg on highways and maintain better overall efficiency under typical camping or long-trip use.
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter-based conversion vans
Sprinter chassis—especially when equipped with gasoline turbo engines—offer competitive highway efficiency and a modern drivetrain. However, due to overall vehicle weight in well-equipped conversions, Sprinter gas mileage is usually a bit lower than the Transit in similar configurations. Diesel Sprinters can push higher highway mpg, but that falls outside the gasoline-focused comparison.
Ram ProMaster-based conversion vans
ProMasters tend to be heavier and less aerodynamic in many conversion layouts, which can reduce gas mileage relative to Transit and Sprinter offerings. Their 3.6L V6 gas engine is robust and widely available, but in typical conversions you’ll generally see lower highway mpg compared with the Transit EcoBoost option.
Diesel vs gas considerations
Diesel-powered vans often deliver higher mpg on highway driving and better torque for heavy loads, which can improve long-distance efficiency in a fully loaded conversion. If you’re weighing options, consider whether you’ll regularly haul heavy payloads or do frequent long trips with constant highway speeds; in those cases, a diesel Sprinter or a diesel Transit can be more economical in the long run. For strictly gas-powered builds, the Ford Transit with the 2.0L EcoBoost remains the front-runner in most consumer comparisons.
How to maximize gas mileage in a conversion van
Shoppers and owners can take several concrete steps to squeeze more mpg from a gas-powered conversion van. The following tips help reduce weight, improve aerodynamics, and optimize engine efficiency.
- Minimize added weight in the conversion by choosing lighter interior materials and avoiding unnecessary equipment.
- Keep tires inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressures to reduce rolling resistance.
- Remove optional roof racks or exterior clutter when not in use to improve aerodynamics.
- Plan routes to avoid frequent stop-and-go driving and to minimize total idling time.
- Use fuel-efficient driving habits, including steady speeds and smoother acceleration.
- Schedule regular maintenance (air filters, spark plugs, oxygen sensors, and spark timing) to keep the engine running efficiently.
- Choose a chassis with better aerodynamics when possible, and consult the converter about any roof heights or exterior additions that affect drag.
Implementing these practices can yield measurable gains, especially on longer trips where highway cruising dominates fuel use.
Summary
For gasoline-powered conversion vans, Ford Transit-based builds with the 2.0L EcoBoost engine are typically the best choice for fuel economy, often achieving the highest highway mpg among common configurations. Mercedes Sprinter gas options and Ram ProMaster gas setups generally trail the Transit in mileage, though diesel variants can offer higher efficiency for long-distance travel. Real-world results depend heavily on payload, roof height, and how the van is configured. If mileage is a primary concern, prioritize a lighter, well-aerodynamically optimized build on a Transit chassis and follow best-practice driving and maintenance habits to maximize efficiency.
What is the most fuel-efficient RV?
The most fuel-efficient RVs are generally Class B camper vans like the Winnebago Travato and those built on the Ford Transit or Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis, averaging between 18-25 mpg. Towable options, like the Safari Condo Alto, can also be very efficient, sometimes reaching 20 mpg or more when towed by a midsize SUV, as shown in this YouTube video.
Class B camper vans
- Averages: 18-25 mpg.
- Most fuel-efficient models:
- Winnebago Travato 59G: Often cited as a top performer at around 22 mpg, says Cruise America.
- American Coach Patriot MD2: A luxury option that can reportedly get 15-17 mpg with its diesel engine, built on a Mercedes-Benz chassis.
- Airstream Interstate Grand Tour: Another Mercedes-Benz chassis-based diesel motorhome that gets around 18 mpg, notes RV Trader.
- Coachmen Nova: A Class B on a Ram ProMaster chassis that can get up to 18 mpg on the highway.
Towable RVs
- Safari Condo Alto A1752: This lightweight, aerodynamic trailer can get up to 21 mpg when towed by a mid-size SUV, notes this YouTube video.
- Teardrop and pop-up trailers: These are generally more fuel-efficient than larger RVs because of their lighter weight and smaller profile.
How to improve fuel efficiency
- Maintain a steady speed: Drive at a consistent speed, ideally between 55-60 mph, and use cruise control.
- Avoid rapid acceleration: Gentle acceleration saves fuel.
- Lighten your load: Don't carry unnecessary weight, as this will decrease your fuel efficiency.
- Consider aerodynamics: Look for models with a more aerodynamic design, like the Safari Condo Alto, which has a pointed front and a fully enclosed underbelly.
What to avoid for fuel efficiency
- Class A and C motorhomes: These are larger and heavier, resulting in lower gas mileage compared to Class B vans. Class A RVs get an average of 6-10 mpg, while Class C RVs get 10-14 mpg.
Which full-size cargo van gets the best gas mileage?
Full-Size & Medium Contenders: Ford Transit, Mercedes Metris, Sprinter
| Van Model | Fuel Efficiency (MPG Combined) |
|---|---|
| Ford Transit (Diesel) | Up to 22 MPG |
| Mercedes Metris | 19–22 MPG |
| Mercedes-Benz Sprinter | Up to 21 MPG (Diesel) |
Are camper vans good on gas?
You can expect a camper van to get 13-18 MPG and average about 15.5 MPG. Camper vans are large vehicles, meaning they won't be as fuel-efficient as cars. However, a large vehicle may be the best choice if you want to fit everything in one place and have a dedicated sleeping space.
What conversion van gets the best MPG?
11 Most Fuel Efficient Camper Vans [2024 Updated List]
- #1 Toyota Sienna (Hybrid)
- #2 Ford Transit Connect.
- #3 Ram ProMaster City.
- #4 Nissan NV200.
- #5 Mercedes Metris.
- #6 Honda Odyssey.
