If you're shopping for a motorhome, you'll have noticed that the "coachbuilt" (low-profile) type is by far the best seller. That's no coincidence: the coachbuilt format offers the best balance of living space, driving and fuel consumption, which is why it suits most travellers. But there's plenty of variety within coachbuilts, so it's worth knowing what to look for. Here's the guide to choosing.
What a coachbuilt motorhome is
It's a motorhome whose living cell is built onto the chassis, but using the vehicle's original cab and with an aerodynamic roofline (without the "hump" over the cab found on an overcab/Alkoven model). The result: a lower, more aerodynamic silhouette, which drives and parks better and uses somewhat less fuel.
Advantages of a coachbuilt
- Balance: good living space without being as large or tall as an overcab or A-class.
- Driving and fuel use: more aerodynamic, easier to handle and somewhat more efficient.
- For couples and small families: the most versatile format.
Its downside compared to an overcab model: it usually has fewer sleeping berths (it doesn't make use of the space above the cab). We compare them in A-class vs coachbuilt and overcab motorhomes.
What to look for when choosing
- Bed layout: fixed beds (twin, island, drop-down) versus convertible ones; think about how many of you there are and whether you want to make up the bed each night (see layout).
- Approved seating/berths for travelling and for sleeping (they're not the same thing).
- Length: from under 6 metres (more agile) to 7m+ (more space). See motorhomes under 6 metres.
- Payload (MAM): enough margin for your gear (see weight and MAM).
- Standard equipment (heating, electrical system, water).
New or used
Coachbuilt motorhomes are also very sought-after second-hand. A well-chosen used one saves a lot of money; check for water tightness and mechanical condition (see buying second-hand and new or used).
In summary
The coachbuilt motorhome is the best seller thanks to its balance of living space, driving and fuel use, ideal for couples and small families. The step to take today: before looking at models, decide how many berths you need for sleeping and travelling and what length you're comfortable parking; with that, the list of coachbuilt options narrows itself down to the ones that genuinely fit you.