Hi VocalVirgo,
You sure got some interesting feedback, and here is mine.
Our class B+ motorhome
PICTURES HERE is 23'-8" long with an aerodynamic configuration. It is built on a 2007 E350 with V10 and the previous generation Torqshift transmission with one less gear than the current-day E350/E450. It does have the typical E350 rear axle ratio of the time that was more fuel efficient than the axle ratio of the E450.
Our fuel economy (4000-6000 mile trip averaging) is fairly consistent.
10.5mpg not towing another vehicle (max speed limited to 60mph)
9.25 when towing our Jeep Liberty (max speed limited to 70mph)
I would have thought going faster with the Liberty in-tow would be worse yet, but I attribute that to the aerodynamics of our motor home.
I heard rumor that the new 2021 E350/E450 with the 7.3L-V8 engine will have improved fuel economy over the 6.8L V10 of 2019 that it replaces. How much is not known.
In the case with a conventional class C that is not aerodynamic, your fuel economy will be greatly influenced by your cruising speed. The trouble with the 6.8L-V10 and with the 7.3L-V8 engine, is that the power from the engine gives the driver the confidence to drive faster. Limiting your cruising speed between 60mph and 65mph might increase your fuel economy as much as 20%.
I don't think you can go wrong with the 7.3L-V8 engine & transmission combination, especially with a 2022 model year to avoid some of the little quirks of first-year production.
So comparing the new Ford chassis with the current Chevy chassis, I think they will be exceptionally comparable with regards to fuel economy, but the new Ford engine will have more power to spare which if not respected, will lower your fuel economy.
Linear Mode
