Last updated on July 26th, 2023 at 05:37 am
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Having a Class C RV for towing a car is a need many RVers have. Not only is it convenient to bring your passenger vehicle along on your next camping trip, but it can also save you money if you’re able to tow it rather than drive it separately from your motorhome.
Class Cs are powerful and versatile RVs- they have more room than a Class B and are usually less expensive, depending on the features you are looking for. They are capable of towing so you and your family can enjoy the open road, all from the same vehicle!
But what might you need to know before you start shopping for a Class C RV? And what are some of the best options on the market currently, able to tow your family car? Let’s get some of these questions answered now!
What To Consider In A Class C RV For Towing A Car?
Of course, it’s possible to tow a car with a Class C RV, but there are many different types of RVs available, and some Class Cs will be able to handle more weight and towing stress than others. If you’re hoping to tow your regular car behind your Class C motorhome, there are a few questions worth asking first!
How Much Can It Tow?
Knowing how much a Class C RV is able to tow is one of the most important bits of information you’ll need when searching for a rig able to tow your car. Knowing how much your passenger car weighs is step one. You can weigh a car many different ways, from weigh stations and truck stops or even at your own home! The average car weighs anywhere from 2500-4000 pounds, and this number increases from there.
Before you purchase a Class C RV able to tow your car, it’s wise to take some time to understand the various weights involved with RVs. Not only does the towing capacity matter, but knowing how much weight to bring onboard the rig, including cargo and passengers is vital knowledge too. While you may not think these numbers will change much, weight adds up faster than most people expect!
Choosing a rig able to carry everything you want, as well as tow a car will take a bit more math than other simpler purchases. You may want to know how much your passenger car weighs so you don’t end up purchasing a Class C with too much horsepower. Not that too much of something is bad, but some RVers might end up paying for more than they need in the long run.
Do You Need A Super C RV?
Some Class Cs (known as Super Cs) are capable of towing nearly 20,000 pounds! That’s likely far more than you need in order to tow your passenger car, and these rigs are much more expensive due to their higher towing capacity. However, these large rigs are capable of fantastic feats- boondocking, long-term winter camping, and even towing boats can be possible in a Super C. The question is: do you really need it to be able to accomplish all this?
While bigger may seem better, there’s always a cost to larger RVs and you may find a mighty big rig doesn’t suit you, both for safety on the road and maneuverability through towns and at campsites. But more on that later!
What Style Hitch Do You Need?
Depending on the Class C and passenger vehicle, you’ll need to know what style of hitch works for you. Many Class C RVs come equipped with standard hitches that may or may not work for the weight of your vehicle- some Class Cs need a hitch installed after purchase.
While figuring out what hitch you need is step one, you should spend some extra time learning about how to tow with your RV. Towing is easier than many people think, though it should always be done safely and securely.
Learning how to properly weigh down your rig is a good idea, as well as how to safely hitch up your passenger vehicle. Once you know how to take things slow and steady, you’ll be ready for towing your car anywhere!
How Many People Are Coming Along?
Knowing how many guests and passengers you can expect on an average camping trip can be helpful in choosing your Class C. Not only does this affect the overall layout and floor plan of your rig (including sleeping locations), but it also affects the weight of your Class C while driving.
You may already know you are traveling alone, or perhaps you are traveling with your significant other and don’t need much space. However, if you plan on bringing along the whole family or some friends, it can be helpful to plan ahead!
Just keep in mind with more people comes more stuff, and with more stuff comes more weight. You should never get too close to your weight limit, whether you are towing or not. RVs are amazing, but they can get overfull or crowded easily.
What Floor Plan Suits You Best?
Speaking of passengers and how many people you expect to bring along, choosing a Class C RV with a useful floor plan is vital. While you may not know your needs right away, it’s important to choose a layout that works best for you and your guests.
Whether you’re traveling with your partner or the whole family of five, having an RV with a spacious and open layout can make all the difference. While most modern Class Cs have this feel to them, it’s the details of a floor plan that make the decision-making process more difficult.
You may be on the lookout for a residential-sized fridge, or perhaps a master suite with washer and dryer hookups. Maybe you want an outdoor kitchen or a rig with multiple slide-outs so there’s ample room for everyone.
Regardless, this process can take time, especially if you don’t quite know what you like and don’t like yet. I recommend searching RV manufacturers’ websites and watching any 3D tours or video tours of specific rigs you are considering. It can really help you get a feel for them!
What About Your Budget?
Speaking of Super Cs being prohibitively expensive, considering your budget should be at the top of your list of priorities. While buying the absolute best Class C for boondocking may seem cool, it can easily topple a budget with nonstandard features you may not necessarily need!
Class C RVs can range in price, anywhere from $60,000 to well over $200,000- it all depends on the size, luxury features, and what you are hoping to get out of it. Keep in mind not only are you buying an RV, you’re buying a car too, and maintenance can add more cost to the initial price tag.
There are budget-friendly Class C RVs, however, including some with impressive bathroom layouts. Always check and make sure the rig you’re considering has the capabilities of towing your passenger vehicle, of course!
Do You Want Diesel Or Gas?
An important distinction to consider with Class Cs is what type of engine you prefer: diesel or gasoline. The two types are hotly contested, and every RVer has their own particular preferences and opinions. Plus, it could affect your ability to tow a car as well.
For example, many RVers prefer diesel over gas, citing their more luxurious features and more efficient gas mileage in the long run. Diesel is usually less expensive than gasoline, though it may not be readily available at every gas station.
Gasoline RVs are always less expensive upfront- if you have a certain loan limit or budget you’re trying to stick to, a diesel engine may be out of the question. However, diesel rigs save you in fuel costs and are often more capable of towing larger cars.
This could be an important consideration as you shop for a Class C RV for towing a car. While your budget is important, splurging for a diesel rig may be worth it, as they usually have more horsepower and towing capabilities!
Good Brands Of Class C RV For Towing A Car
Choosing a Class C that works well for you and your lifestyle is one thing. But what brands are reliable and well-known when it comes time to make your final purchase? Here are some of my top picks, though you may find a brand that works better for you.
Winnebago
We all know about Winnebago, right? Known for their affordability and overall customer service, Winnebago keeps wowing RVers with their innovations, usually for a good price. Their Class Cs are on the smaller side, but many of them are able to tow a car, with no problem.
Thor
Known for being budget-friendly like Winnebago, Thor is proving to be another reliable brand in the RV world. They are great for families, and they have rigs capable of towing a car, even a selection of Super Cs. They offer many different layout options as well.
Forest River
Forest River is well regarded in the RV world and has been for decades. They own many other RV companies under their business umbrella, including manufacturers of Super C diesel rigs. They make quality rigs with industry-leading innovations, including RVs made for you and your pets.
Jayco
Much like Forest River, Jayco has been talked about among RVers for some time. This brand seems to often focus on durability, advertising special sturdy RV frames. They use a lot of custom woodworking and considerate features not found in many Class Cs!
7 Best Class C RV For Towing a Car
While you decide on how big a fuel tank you need for your Class C RV, it’s time to take a look at some of the best options out there for towing a car. Do you remember how much your car weighs so you can tow it without hassle? Great! Let’s get started.
Best Overall: Jayco Greyhawk
Finding the best overall Class C RV for towing a car is easy with Jayco on the list, and that’s why their Greyhawk Class C takes the cake. This camper is a versatile rig able to tow a passenger car whilst also meeting budget needs. There are four floorplans to choose from, and I love that each is unique in its own way, as it means there’s a floorplan to hopefully suit all types of RVers!
The 27U floorplan is the smallest, with a length of 29′ 11″, and the other three layouts are slightly longer, measuring 32′ 6″. All of the floorplans come with spacious bathrooms which I find a game-changer spending so much time on the road, and the awning on each layout is perfect for summer shade or winter shelter. This roomy Class C is built using all of Jayco’s proprietary construction methods and materials with added safety features which put my mind at ease, as safety and security are paramount in my eyes!
I love that with the Greyhawk, I can simply turn the key and go on a quick getaway or cross-country trip, all with my car in tow. The Greyhawk can tow 7,500 lbs behind it and includes a 750-lb tongue capacity. With heated side mirrors and slide-out awning covers, I can enjoy some extra touches that would make any RV owner feel special. But there are plenty more standard features from this Jayco rig that also catch my eye.
Unique touches include a walk-around king bed with an en-suite bathroom, bunk beds for the kiddos, and an electric fireplace in the living room so I can be cozy no matter what the weather is like outside. I always look for these features in RVs as they make the space feel homely and welcoming, which is what I need for full-time life on the road.
Jayco also offers a fantastic warranty and an industry-leading cab-over bunk, which proves to me they are constantly thinking of how to best help RVers, no matter what. The towing capacity of the Greyhawk is a decent amount at 7,500 lbs, however, for larger vehicles, a larger capacity may be required. Overall, however, this Class C is an affordable and comfortable rig and a great choice for those kicking off their RVing journey.
Most Compact: Forest River Forester MBS
Forest River has long been regarded as a wonderful name in the RV world, choosing quality materials and designs over cheap and quick manufacturing. The Forester MBS is no exception because it’s a powerful rig built around a diesel engine- all in a compact package.
Forester Class C motorhomes offer comfortable floor plans with spacious interior living, well-appointed décors, and several slide-out floor plan options. Plus, all Foresters are “Certified Green” by TRA Certification which is important to me as I like to keep my impact on the environment as small as possible. The only drawback I can see with the MBS model is the lack of floorplans. Since there are only two different layouts available, there’s a lack of choice and versatility, however, both floorplans have plenty of perks to suit most, if not all, RVers.
Built on a reliable Mercedes Benz chassis, and measuring 25′ 5″ in length, the Forester MBS isn’t too large to prove difficult when maneuvering in cities or tight areas. The compact size means I don’t have to worry about taking out a bridge when I’m bumbling down the road! Although there are plenty of benefits to owning a moderately sized RV, this Class C rig by Forest River may not be big enough for a large group or family.
Both floorplans can sleep around 5 people, thanks to innovative bedroom features like a large cab-over bunk and queen Murphy bed. The kitchen also stands out to me, as it features a large fridge, a convection microwave, and flip-up or fold-down countertop extensions, giving me ample prep space for cooking my favorite dishes. And in terms of what this rig can tow, it’s capable of bringing my passenger car along behind it, just as long as it weighs less than 4,200 lbs, which it does!
With ducted AC, a gasoline generator, heated tank pads, and more as standard features, it seems Forest River has covered every base with the Forester MBS. I would like to see a bit more solar prep with this camper for better performance when boondocking, but the Optional 190W solar-powered 12V charging system is an investment I’d definitely opt for.
Forest River offers a 12-month warranty, in addition to a comprehensive chassis warranty as well, giving me the reassurance I need that my rig is durable and able to tackle all of the wild adventures I have planned! Their customer service is excellent, and I don’t think I’d have any trouble reselling a Forest River RV if I ever decide to go for something bigger or maybe size down to a truck camper. The Forester MBS is a reliable and sought-after excellent buy!
Best For Couples: Tiffin Wayfarer
Living or traveling with a partner in an RV is awesome, if I do say so myself! I love making memories with loved ones, but it takes a special RV to make living on the road with others a success, and the Tiffin Wayfarer is a camper that hits the mark. Especially couples! This rig is small, easy to drive, and capable of towing a car behind it with a 5,000-pound capacity and efficient diesel engine.
Designed inside and out with every need in mind, it features a spacious interior, industry-standard safety features, and high-performance handling with the Mercedes-Benz chassis I know, love, and trust. Spontaneous adventure and exploring nature are what the Wayfarer is all about, making it a great rig for those hoping to head out and park in the wilderness.
There are four stylish floor plans found on this 25-foot rig, from twin beds to Murphy beds, making this rig suitable not just for singles or couples, but also for small families too. The interior design inside these rigs is spot-on and luxurious, making it look like a comfortable home and less like an RV.
The Tiffin also has an instant hot water heater, two large house batteries, ducted heat and cooling, heated holding tanks, and a shower with a skylight. All of these features are essential in my eyes, for convenience when traveling and for ultimate comfort too. Handcrafted cabinetry isn’t a standard feature, and although it’s a little frustrating to increase the overall cost of an RV, I feel additions like these can help create an overall, more homely interior.
Tiffin offers the most warranties out of any of these brands for its Wayfarer, including an exclusive owner’s club. The warranties cover the overall rig, paint delamination for three years, two separate chassis warranties, and one year of reliable roadside assistance. This means neither me nor my partner has to be anxious about our Tiffin, and if we do experience any issues, there’s a friendly and helpful customer services team waiting!
It’s no secret. I love nothing more than pulling up to a lakeside park-up in my RV, setting up the camping chairs, and settling down for a long weekend at the water’s edge. To do this, I need a Class C RV able to tow my car and boondock too, which is why I’ve added the Winnebago Navion to our list. This rig can tow a passenger car anywhere a journey takes me, especially when I want to go camping off the grid!
Showcasing boundless freedom combined with upscale comfort, the Navion is designed to create life-long memories. It’s attractive on the outside and is matched perfectly with luxurious details and features throughout. Since it’s also built on the dependable diesel-powered Sprinter chassis, I’m backed by durability wherever I choose to go.
The Navion has a 5,000-pound towing capacity, which means it should be able to handle the average-sized passenger vehicle. It has a hitch already installed, so I don’t have to worry about fitting one once I drive off the lot. This particular model from Winnebago offers three unique floor plans, all on a 25′ 6″ frame. From a couch to a Murphy bed, theatre seating, or a two twin bed set up instead of a queen size, I have the flexibility of sleeping four in this diesel Class C RV.
I love the versatile layouts, as often I worry about having space for guests to stay, but this isn’t an issue whatsoever in the Navion – it’s innovatively crafted to accommodate a variety of needs. Fine touches like the available theater seating and optional entertainment package are just as impressive, plus the innovative LP/Induction cooktop, eye-catching curved cabinets, lighted soft close galley drawers, and sprung-cushion dinette and sofa seats, transform the interior into an upscale living experience I want my loved ones to enjoy as much as me!
This rig is relatively budget-friendly, however, it’s still a substantial investment to make. However, it’s hard to find a Class C RV with boondocking capabilities as good as the Winnebago Navion. This RV has industry-leading holding tanks, standard 200W of solar, Group 31 batteries (or lithium smart batteries), and a 2,000W inverter to further aid in extending off-grid stays. This Class C is boondock-ready, able to tow a car with ease, and even looks good doing it!
Best On A Budget: Winnebago Minnie Winnie
Whenever I’m asked about budget-friendly RVs, I always seem to turn to Winnebago. Their rigs are reliable and have been trusted for a long time, blending quality and budget to create dynamic rigs such as the Winnebago Minnie Winnie. There are six different floorplans available, each as comfortable and spacious as the other, however, the floorplans range in length from 23′ 10″ to a hefty 32′ 9″. This means it’s easy to choose a rig best suited to individual needs with no hassle.
I love the ability to choose from three different interior decor options as it means I can tailor the rig to my tastes, so I will feel more at home in the space. This budget-friendly rig is a fantastic option for small and medium size families, and everyone can get a good night’s sleep thanks to the versatile bed areas such as the bunk beds, cab-over bunk, and sofa/bed.
The attention to detail in the Minnie Winnie is astonishing, and it honestly signifies to me that Winnebago is really stepping up their RV interior game! The Corian solid surface countertops, recessed 3-burner range with glass-covered oven, stainless steel sink, double-door refrigerator, and expansive pantry, are all designed to make me feel right at home. The addition of the U-shaped dinette means meal times can be enjoyed together, in a designated place where the whole family can gather and talk about the day.
Depending on the floor plan, the black and gray water holding tank capacities are a bit smaller than I’d personally want for going away on long boondocking trips. Some layouts such as the 22R and 25B only have 21 gallons of black water capacity, compared to the 22M which has double this amount.
However, the range of standard features is also great, as there’s a second coach battery, 1,000W inverter, powered patio awning, radio/rearview monitor system, and more. As for the towing capacity of the Minnie Winnie, it’s 7,500 lbs, which should be ample for bringing a car along on vacation.
Highest Towing Capacity: Thor Chateau
Most RVers tend to take their smaller car along with them on vacation, but for those wanting to tow a heavier vehicle, the Thor Chateau is ideal, with an impressive 8,000 lbs towing capacity. Behind the wheel of the Chateau, lies a 7-inch touchscreen dash radio with unique features such as steering wheel audio, camera control, and deluxe exterior mirrors, depending on the floor plan. Every model comes with a backup monitor to keep an eye on the trailer connected to the hitch which I find makes things a lot easier on the highway!
This is a relaxing ride, guaranteed, with captain’s chairs, cruise control, and power windows to make everything easy and comfortable with just a single touch. The Thor Chateau is either built on the Ford E-Series Chassis, with a 7.3L V8 325HP engine, or the Chevrolet Chassis with a 6.6L V8 401HP engine. Both of these are reliable, robust, and ready rigs, able to tackle adventures across the continent.
The Chateau Class C RV offers twelve different floor plans, which means it’s easy to find a layout to complement my style, needs, and wants. I love the diversity of the floorplans, with some featuring a Murphy bed, and Dream dinette, with other layouts fitted with a dual-entry bathroom, and bunk beds. Innovative features like these make the Chateau such a versatile rig, able to accommodate all types of RVers from couples to families with pets.
All twelve floorplans are as beautiful as each other, and I find the residential vinyl flooring a perfect addition as it’s easy to clean and cool underfoot during summer months. The decorative glass inserts in the overhead kitchen cabinetry help bring a sense of elegance to the Chateau and paired with LED, the space is well-lit and bright.
In the summer, I know most of my time would be spent outside of the Thor Chateau, relaxing under the powered patio awning, before cooking up a feast using the exterior griddle or pull-out kitchen and 12V cooler available on specific models. Thor has prioritized exterior space just as much as interior with this Class C rig, and since it has the highest towing capacity on our list of RVs, it’s an awesome option for towing a car along!
Best Super C: Renegade RV Renegade Classic
Super C RVs are alike Class C RVs, only they have a more powerful engine, are typically larger, and more expensive than Class C RVs. However, I want to bring this Renegade RV Renegade Classic onto this list, as it’s a rig worth mentioning for its astonishing towing capacity, and overall luxury amenities. In no way is the Renegade Classic a budget-friendly rig, but it’s bursting with impressive features and fifteen floorplans to choose from – yes, fifteen!
Renegade RV are known for producing luxury rigs able to tackle RVing in style, and the Renegade Classic is no exception. The hardwood cabinetry, welcoming sofas, large beds, Ultraleather material, tile backsplash, and dovetail draw constructions are just some of the standard details that reach out to me. Renegade RV take pride in manufacturing rigs not only functional but beautiful too and as a full-timer, I really appreciate this as it makes for a comfortable camping experience.
As I said earlier, this isn’t the cheapest RV on our list, but it does have an incredible towing capacity of 20,000 lbs, so the sky is pretty much the limit when towing a car! This is a large capacity, and thanks to the durability of the Freightliner Cascadia, Volvo, Western Star, or Peterbilt chassis, regardless of the floorplan, I know the Classic is a quality camper, able to take me across the country and further!
I’m a sucker for an RV kitchen, and I don’t believe there’s any need to make sacrifices just because I’m living on the road and not in a traditional house. This Super C has a mammoth French door residential refrigerator, three burner stovetop, stainless steel convection oven, Truma water heater, and even prep for the optional washer/dryer. It would be a dream come true if a washer/dryer was standard in the Renegade Classic, however, having laundry on board is a game-changer and could actually save money in the long run when compared to trips to the launderette.
The Renegade RV Classic may have an eye-watering price tag when compared to the Class Cs on our list, but it is a Super C RV, able of towing a heavy car, sleeping at least 6 people (but more with select floorplans), and looking like a beast while driving down the highway!
Final Thoughts
Shopping around for the best Class C RV for towing a car doesn’t have to be difficult. I have no doubts that you’ll be able to find a camper ticking all of your boxes soon, if not already! Just remember to weigh your passenger car before hitching up, and you’ll be good to go!