For many vanlifers, fuel efficiency isn’t just about saving money at the pump—it’s about extending the journey. The more miles you can cover on a tank, the more freedom you have to explore. Whether you’re seeking vans with good gas mileage for weekend getaways or a long-term adventure rig, 2025 brings an impressive lineup of fuel-efficient options that blend performance, comfort, and sustainability.
In this guide, we’ll compare MPG across popular models, highlight the vans with the best gas mileage, and share tips to help you make every gallon count—whether you’re buying new or upgrading your current build.
Why Fuel Efficiency Matters for Van Life
A van isn’t just transportation—it’s your home, office, and adventure hub on wheels. High MPG means fewer stops, less cost, and a smaller environmental footprint. As a family-run team of outdoor adventurers, we at The Vansmith understand that a fuel efficient motorhome is key to making van life more sustainable. That’s why we help clients choose the right base vehicle and integrate features that won’t weigh it down unnecessarily.
Camper Van MPG Comparison Chart
Here’s a quick look at how the top contenders stack up for 2025.
|
Model |
Estimated MPG (Combined) |
Fuel Type |
Best Use Case |
|
Toyota Sienna Hybrid |
~27 mpg |
Hybrid Gas/Electric |
Small family camper build |
|
Ford Transit (Custom Hybrid Upgrade) |
Up to 43.5 mpg |
Diesel Hybrid |
Large van conversions |
|
Ford Transit Connect |
25–28 mpg |
Gas |
Compact city-to-camp setups |
|
Ram ProMaster City |
28 mpg |
Gas |
Affordable DIY camper base |
|
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 4-Cyl Diesel |
23–25 mpg |
Diesel |
Long-haul travelers |
|
Nissan NV200 |
26 mpg |
Gas |
Budget micro-camper builds |
MPG estimates based on manufacturer data and road tests.
Best Small Camper Vans for Fuel Efficiency
If your adventures lean toward agility and parking flexibility, small vans top the charts. The best gas mileage camper van options in 2025 are hybrids or compact cargo vans.
Top Picks:
Toyota Sienna Hybrid (~27 mpg)
Smooth ride, AWD option, and a hybrid system that sips fuel. Perfect for stealth camping and urban van life.
Ram ProMaster City (28 mpg)
Budget-friendly, great payload, and a flat cargo floor for easy builds.
Ford Transit Connect (up to 28 mpg)
Compact size, versatile interior, and reliable parts availability.
Brand Principle Spotlight – Sustainability in Every Van:
At The Vansmith, we favor small, fuel-efficient bases when clients want to explore responsibly. By combining lightweight, eco-friendly materials like bamboo and birch with these smaller platforms, you get efficiency without sacrificing comfort.
Fuel-Efficient Large Vans for Van Life
Large vans give you more living space, storage, and off-grid capability—but they can still be fuel-savvy. For those wondering about the best gas mileage conversion van in the larger category, here are your top contenders:
Ford Transit Diesel Hybrid Upgrade (Up to 43.5 mpg)
The current MPG leader in its class. Perfect for full-time vanlifers.
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 4-Cyl Diesel (23–25 mpg)
Known for reliability and long-distance comfort.
Ram ProMaster 3.6L Gas (~20 mpg)
Not a hybrid, but still competitive for its size.
Brand Principle Spotlight– Unmatched Craftsmanship:
When we build on a large van platform, our design team focuses on balancing comfort with weight reduction. By strategically using lightweight cabinetry and efficient systems, we help large vans perform more like smaller ones in terms of fuel use.
Least Fuel-Efficient Vans on the Market
Not every van is built with MPG in mind. While these models have their advantages, they lag in efficiency and can cost more over time in fuel:
- Older Ford E-Series (10–14 mpg) – Rugged but thirsty.
- Chevy Express 3500 V8 (~12 mpg) – Great towing power, but not ideal for cross-country fuel budgets.
- RAM Van 2500 Gas (~13 mpg) – Strong and spacious, but gas mileage is its weakness.
If you love one of these for other reasons, we can still help you improve efficiency through smart build choices.
Tips to Improve Your Van’s Fuel Efficiency
Whether you already own a van or are shopping for one of the vans with good mpg, these tips can help:
Optimize Weight
Every 100 lbs removed can improve MPG by up to 2%.
Keep Tires Properly Inflated
Low tire pressure can cut MPG by 1–2 mpg.
Regular Maintenance
Clean air filters and tuned engines run more efficiently.
Drive Smarter
Steady speeds and gentle acceleration conserve fuel.
Upgrade Aerodynamics
Roof racks, fairings, and streamlined designs reduce drag.
Brand Principle Spotlight – We Tailor to Your Vision:
When you customize your van with us, we look at your travel style. If you plan on frequent long drives, we integrate weight-conscious layouts and energy-efficient appliances to help you stretch every mile.
Which Fuel Types Offer the Most MPG and Why?
Diesel
Often delivers better MPG for larger vans due to energy density.
Hybrid Gas/Electric
Best for small to mid-size vans with city and highway driving.
Gasoline
Lower upfront cost but less efficient over long distances compared to diesel.
Choosing the right fuel type depends on your travel patterns and availability of fueling stations where you roam.
How Driving Style Affects Your MPG
Yes—how you drive makes a big difference. Rapid acceleration, frequent braking, and speeding all lower MPG. Keep speeds moderate, plan routes to avoid heavy traffic, and use cruise control when possible.
What is the Best Large Van for MPG?
Right now, the Ford Transit Diesel Hybrid Upgrade takes the crown with up to 43.5 mpg. If you need a full-size platform for a fuel efficient motorhome, this is the one to beat.
Why The Vansmith Cares About Efficiency
We’ve been building vans for over a decade from our Boulder, Colorado workshop—combining adventure-tested designs with a love for the outdoors. Efficiency isn’t just about saving you money; it’s about helping you roam further with a lighter footprint.
Our approach blends:
- Innovative Designs – Making space work smarter, not just bigger.
- Sustainable Materials – Bamboo, birch, and wool insulation for comfort without waste.
- Personalized Builds – Aligning MPG goals with your lifestyle.
When you choose The Vansmith, you’re not just getting a van—you’re getting a partner in adventure.
Final Thoughts
The vans that get the best gas mileage in 2025 prove that efficiency and adventure can go hand in hand. Whether you’re drawn to a nimble hybrid like the Toyota Sienna or a road warrior like the Ford Transit Diesel Hybrid, your van can be both fuel-savvy and road-ready.
If you’re ready to find your perfect MPG match—or want to customize your van for better efficiency—our team is here to help you hit the road with confidence.
