Top Reliable Camper Vans on the Market in 2023


With so many campervan options on the market, it can be hard to decide which ones to trust. I believe that campervan reliability is determined by the vehicle’s quality, performance, and the brand’s customer service’s ability to address any problems. With this in mind, here are the top three most reliable campervans on the market.

The Coachmen Beyond is the most reliable campervan on the market, while the most reliable Class B+ campervan is the Thor Gemini. Thor also makes the most reliable 4-wheel drive campervan, the Tranquility. These campervans are well-made and backed up by a comprehensive customer care team.

Read on to learn more about the top three most reliable campervans on the market today. I’ll discuss the quality and features of the Coachmen Beyond, Thor Gemini, and Thor Tranquility so that you can make an informed decision. 

Best Overall: Coachmen Beyond

Coachmen RV has been crafting consistently high-quality RVs since its inception in 1964, and the Class B Beyond is a wonderful example of this. Its superior construction and Coachmen’s world-class customer service allow you to be confident in your RV.

There are three different Coachmen Beyond vans from which to choose: 

  • 22C
  • 22D
  • 22RB

These models are named according to their rear configuration, which can be a couch, dinette, or rear bath. Each model measures 22’2” (675.64 cm) and differs only in the interior layout. 

Ford Chassis

The chassis or mechanical part of the Beyond is manufactured by Ford, which has a long history of building reliable vehicles. The chassis has a 10-speed transmission with an overdrive to help you navigate various terrain types. It also features Ford’s proprietary EcoBoost engine, which increases power and efficiency, giving it 14mpg (5.95 km/L) in the city and 18mpg (7.65 km/L) on the highway.

Ford offers a fairly standard warranty, namely a 3-year or 36,000-mile (57,936 km) (whichever comes first) bumper-to-bumper warranty covering most of the vehicle’s electronic components. They also have a 5-year or 60,000-mile (96,561 km) powertrain warranty that covers the engine system. In addition, the entire campervan is covered by a 1-year or 12,000-mile (19,312 km) limited warranty through Coachmen.

The Coachmen Beyond also provides an enhanced driving experience, and this campervan features the latest technology in their Co-Pilot360 package, which comes standard. 

It includes:

  • Adaptive cruise control
  • Adjustable speed limiting device (ASLD)
  • Auto high-beam headlamps
  • Automatic emergency braking
  • Backup camera
  • Blind spot information system
  • Cross-traffic alert and trailer coverage
  • Front and rear split view camera
  • Lane-keeping system
  • Side sensing system
  • Side-wind stabilization
  • SOS post-crash alert system

Quality Features

Coachmen designs and creates the Beyond in the United States with quality materials and premium features both inside and out. I’ll discuss these in more detail below: 

Coachmen Beyond Exterior

The Beyond’s exterior is insulated against weather and sound. Rockwool is standard for insulation, but you can upgrade to an additional layer of Coachmen’s Cozy Wrap and rear door insulation. 

It also has a reflective heat barrier on the undercarriage to insulate the vehicle by preventing the heat generated from travel from being felt inside. The heat barrier comes standard.

The Beyond also features a 195-watt solar panel, which is only a little less power than a typical residential solar panel but perfect for powering the van. The amount of energy you need depends on what you need to power.

There is also a 13-foot (396 cm) legless power awning, which is equipped with motion-sensing technology that will retract it in strong winds to avoid damage. 

Coachmen Beyond Interior

The quality manufacturing displayed on the exterior of the Beyond is also matched on the inside. Coachmen doesn’t cut corners and uses high-quality materials and expert techniques. Every Beyond has the same interior features regardless of the layout you choose.

The controls for the Beyond can all be found in the Firefly Multi-Plex system, which is housed in two panels in the wall. The system controls the temperature, lights, awning, and generator and allows you to view your water levels while streamlining the wiring that connects everything.

The flooring is linoleum with a solid wooden base, which makes it good quality and, most importantly, extremely durable. The Beyond also saves space with a wet room, a small space that doubles as a shower cubicle consisting of a sink, shower, and toilet. 

The bathroom is made of fiberglass, an upgrade from the typical plastic wetrooms.

Another upgraded feature that comes standard on the Beyond is an induction cooktop. Induction cooktops are safer, faster, and more efficient than gas or electric cooktop. However, getting pots and pans specifically made for the induction cooktop may include a small upfront cost.

But you don’t just get quality in the big elements of the Beyond, which provides unparalleled attention to detail that extends the lifespan of every aspect of the campervan. 

For example, the Beyond features custom maple drawers constructed with dove-tail joints and upgraded tracks that keep them opening smoothly for the life of the RV. 

Perhaps most importantly, the Beyond has many excellent safety features and is equipped with a fire extinguisher and smoke, gas, and carbon monoxide detectors.

Customer Service

Despite the incredible reliability of the Beyond RV, sometimes issues are unavoidable. If you have a problem, Coachmen offers world-class customer service to resolve any after-purchase issues.

Coachmen’s roadside assistance is included for the first year after buying a new RV, and covers you for things like flat tires, accidentally locking yourself out of your RV, and more.  

The company also has representatives based in the US available over the phone or through online chat. Their website also contains personal contact information for representatives specializing in different RV classes.

Best Class B+: Thor Gemini

The Thor Gemini is a Class B+ RV, meaning it has a separate cab, maximizing the available living space. The Gemini also has a slide that you can use to expand the living space only when the parking brake is engaged.

Ford Chassis

The Thor Gemini’s chassis is built by Ford using their EcoBoost engine and a 10-speed automatic overdrive transmission. It also has an all-wheel drive to improve handling and provide better traction in rain or snow.

The Thor Gemini is packed with safety technology, including:

  • AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control
  • Auto high-beam headlights
  • Backup monitor
  • Cruise control
  • Hill start assist
  • Lane departure warning
  • Pre-collision braking
  • Tire pressure monitoring system

It also houses a Sync 3 infotainment system that has satellite radio and GPS capabilities. The controls are located on the steering wheel to help you keep your eyes on the road.

Quality Features   

The Thor Gemini is assembled with high-quality materials and useful features that help you get the most out of your space:  

Thor Gemini Exterior

The exterior of the Thor Gemini has some attractive features, including heated mirrors and frameless windows that are easy to open. It also has a skylight that provides more natural light inside the living space. 

In addition, it has a 100-watt solar panel, which is smaller than the other two campervans, but still sufficient to power the Gemini.

Thor Gemini Interior

There are three options for your Thor Gemini. Each model has the same chassis and exterior features, but their interiors differ. 

Here are the main differences:

Model23TE23TW24KB
Sleeps233
Bed ConfigurationSofa folds out into a queen bedSeating folds out into a queen bed; convertible dinetteTwo twin beds; can be combined into a king; sleeper sofa
DiningRemovable table in front of sofaPermanent 68” dinetteRemovable table in front of sofa
Shower Size24” x 36” (61×91 cm)24” x 32” (61×81 cm)27” x 27” corner (69 cm)
Length23’ 7” (719 cm)23’ 7” (719 cm)25’ 10” (787 cm)

The Gemini features Thor’s Rapid Camp+ Multiplex system, controlled by an Android tablet in the wall of your vehicle or via a smartphone app. This system contains all of the controls for lights and slides, as well as displays water and power levels. 

The Gemini’s bathroom has a separate shower, sink, and toilet to keep the rest of your bathroom dry when you shower, which is not typical in campervans of this size. 

It features residential-grade vinyl flooring that will last the van’s lifetime. In addition to durability, they’re also very easy to keep clean. 

The Thor Gemini has an impressive entertainment system. The 23TW and 24KB models have two 32” TVs, while the 23TE has one 40” in the living area. The TVs all have HDMI hookups to connect laptops or gaming consoles. 

There is also a power charging center in the living area and a 4G hotspot to keep you connected while on the go.

Customer Service

Thor is a relatively new company in the campervan space and was formed in 2010 when Four Winds International and Damon Motor Coach merged. Both of these companies have a reliable history.

Thor has a customer service hotline available 24/7. However, most interaction is done through Owner’s Resource, an online portal for Thor RV owners. This service is available for all owners, not just new purchases. If you buy a used RV second-hand, a representative can help you create an account using your vehicle’s VIN for access.

In addition, Thor participates in the Dispute Resolution Program for Recreational Vehicles. This program, run through DeMars & Associates LTD, provides free legal assistance if you encounter warranty disputes. 

Best 4-Wheel Drive: Thor Tranquility

The Thor Tranquility 4-wheel drive RVs powered by Mercedes offer superior off-road capability to handle even the wildest adventure. That said, unfortunately, all-terrain tires aren’t standard. Thor also makes a Tranquility Transit van powered by Ford. While it’s similar, it doesn’t have 4-wheel drive so we’re just discussing the original Tranquility here.

Mercedes Chassis

The Thor Tranquility’s chassis is manufactured by Mercedes and has many luxury features that define all Mercedes vehicles. From man-made leather seats to heated mirrors, Mercedes delivers great quality. This campervan’s multimedia system features Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with voice control. 

While the entertainment technology may be high quality, the driving technology is less impressive because the Thor Tranquility lacks the safety technology found in the Beyond and Gemini. Features like automatic braking, backup cameras, or side sensing that seem standard for vehicles today aren’t available in the Tranquility.

Quality Features

The Thor Tranquility isn’t the fanciest campervan on the market. Instead, it focuses on basic, durable features you can trust.

Thor Tranquility Exterior

The Tranquility has a 190-watt solar panel supported by Thor’s Re(Li)able Power Pack system, which can fully power the van, storing 400 amp-hours of power.

It also features non-slip running boards that increase safety, especially with muddy shoes from a day outdoors.

Your time outdoors is enhanced with a power-extendable lighted awning, and the Tranquility also has a light bar above the windshield to illuminate your campsite at night. 

Thor Tranquility Interior

The 19’7” (5.97 meters) Tranquility is on the small side, but it does a great job of making the best use of the space. It only sleeps 2 people, with the option of a permanent bed or a fold-out bench area to increase living space. The front driver and passenger captain’s seats swivel around to give you more seating while at your campsite. 

Another space-saving feature is the wet room that allows the bathroom to double as a shower, which can feel tight but is common in campervans this size.  

The Tranquility is also controlled by the Rapid Camp+ Multiplex system, and you can use the tablet or app to control the lights and the power awning and check your van’s power and water levels.

The 2023 Tranquility also features an induction cooktop for faster, safer, and more efficient meal prep. Earlier models have a gas stovetop.

The flooring and ceiling in the Tranquility are vinyl, making them durable and easy to clean.

Also, I have to mention that if you like the Thor Tranquility, you must read my article listing the best small campervans with showers. It’ll give you a few more options so you can hone in on the perfect one that fits your taste, budget, and requirements. [Smaller is Better: The Smallest Camper Van With a Shower]

Customer Service

If you encounter a problem with your Thor Tranquility, customer service representatives always help.

Thor customer service includes the following:

  • 24/7 customer service hotline.
  • Owner’s Resource, an online information portal.
  • Dispute Resolution Program.
  • Designated representatives for your campervan class.

Sources

Crystyn Chase

Crystyn enjoys traveling to new locations off the beaten path. She's passionate about RV adventure travel and her desire is to share that love with readers. She is married to Doug and has a playful German Shepherd named Trinity. When not on the road, Crystyn enjoys gardening and food preservation.

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