The recreational-vehicle market is so vast that it is easy to get lost in it. Here is a clear tour of the main motorhome groups and brands you will come across in France and across Europe, and where each one sits, to help you make your choice.
Decided to take the plunge and explore the freedom of life on the road? You are far from alone. In 2023, more than 24,000 brand-new motorhomes, campervans and panel-van conversions were registered in France, according to the country's recreational-vehicle trade body, UNI VDL.
On top of that, over 68,000 used recreational vehicles changed hands. The choice is so wide that it can be genuinely hard to find your way around.
The French recreational-vehicle market
In France, three groups share much of the market. Trigano, the European motorhome leader, owns brands including Challenger, Chausson, Roller Team, McLouis and Notin.
The French Pilote group owns Pilote, Bavaria and Le Voyageur for its higher-end vehicles, and Joa for entry level.
The French Rapido group stands out with Fleurette, Florium, Camperêve and Westfalia for its campervans.
Alongside these French manufacturers you will find the German Hymer group, with the Hymer brand itself plus Dethleffs, Laïka, Bürstner, Niesmann+Bischoff and, on the caravan side, Eriba. There is also Knaus, which sells the Knaus and Weinsberg brands, and Slovenia's Adria.
France Passion is a French scheme that lets fully self-contained motorhomes stay overnight for free at farms, vineyards and local producers. Read our full guide to staying safely with France Passion.
Top 10 motorhome and campervan manufacturers (2022 figures)
Wondering how these players divide up the French market? Out of 24,605 new vehicles sold, here is the top 10 by registrations in 2022, according to UNI VDL:
- Volkswagen (1,598 registrations)
- Pilote (1,453)
- Chausson (1,301)
- Challenger (1,236)
- Pössl (1,222)
- Capron (1,143)
- Bürstner (1,059)
- Rapido (1,044)
- Bavaria (1,001)
- Font Vendôme (975)
Pilote, the French motorhome benchmark
Founded in 1962 and based in the Loire-Atlantique region of western France, Pilote is a true reference in the motorhome world. The family firm started out building caravans, but quickly moved into motorhomes. Pilote means variety: A-class (fully integrated), coachbuilt (low-profile) and panel-van conversions. There is something for every taste.
The brand is best known for the comfort and build quality of its layouts, drawing on more than 60 years of expertise. Pilote likes to innovate, and it shows in their vehicles.
The Galaxy G740 is a must-see. This A-class offers a spacious living area with high-end finishes. Another user favourite is the Pacific P650, a coachbuilt that delivers excellent value for money.
On our own travels we have tested the famous P696U with its incredible rear lounge, the Joa 63 T campervan and the Atlas 603G van. Two completely different vehicles that we genuinely enjoyed.
Chausson, the flagship brand of France's Trigano group
Chausson, does that ring a bell? If you are into motorhomes, this Trigano brand will be a familiar name.
Chausson has been building recreational vehicles since 1980. It is particularly well regarded for its coachbuilt and A-class motorhomes, but also for its campervans. The secret? Practical innovations that make life on board more comfortable.
Among the standout models, the Flash C656 is perfect for families: it sleeps up to seven while keeping comfort high. The Titanium 720, meanwhile, is rugged and modern, ideal for today's adventurers.
Rapido, the French maker of A-class, coachbuilt and campervans
Rapido is a fine family story that began in the Mayenne in 1961 with caravan manufacturing. Today the brand is one of Europe's motorhome essentials. What sets Rapido apart is its French craftsmanship and eye for detail. The Rapido group also covers a host of brands such as Fleurette, Florium and Westfalia, each bringing its own style and innovations.
The Rapido 8F Series is a flagship. This A-class is prized for its comfort and luxurious finishes. If you are after something more compact, the Rapido V55 campervan wins you over with its well-optimised space and modern equipment.
Hymer, the German brand behind our "Swinguy"
Ah, Hymer! A brand we know well thanks to our trusty "Swinguy" (a Hymer Swing 494). Founded in 1957, Hymer is a pioneer of the motorhome. Its reputation rests on the quality and reliability of its vehicles. A-class, coachbuilt, panel-van conversions: Hymer offers a varied range, all built with real attention to detail and durability.
On its Mercedes chassis, the Hymer B-Class ModernComfort is an A-class to dream about: elegant, high-tech and supremely comfortable, turning every trip into a touch of luxury. For something lighter, the Hymer Exsis-i is nimble and comfortable without compromise.
Adria, the Slovenian brand
Adria Mobil has been building recreational vehicles since 1965 and stands out for its constant innovation. Originally known for its caravans, the Slovenian brand launched its first motorhome, the Adriatik, in 1982.
The Adria Matrix is an emblematic model, combining modern design and function. It is a coachbuilt with a pleasant, well-thought-out living space. For those who prefer campervans, the Adria Twin is a popular choice: practical, compact and remarkably well equipped.
Challenger, France's number-one motorhome brand
Challenger, a Trigano brand, knows how to get noticed. Since its start in 1985 it has innovated and delivered practical, affordable motorhomes. Coachbuilt, A-class, campervans: Challenger offers a varied range to suit every traveller. The secret? Clever solutions that make the most of space and comfort.
The Challenger 260 is a popular model. This coachbuilt is loved for its smart layout and comfortable ride. For families, the Challenger 367 GA offers a roomy, well-equipped interior, perfect for longer trips. With Challenger you know you are choosing practicality and comfort without breaking the bank.
Bavaria, refinement by Pilote
Bavaria is a Pilote-group brand that blends tradition and innovation. Since it was created in 1996, Bavaria has stood out for quality motorhomes built for comfort. The range is mainly A-class and coachbuilt models, each designed with attention to detail. Bavaria is in fact Pilote's twin brand: the models are often the same, with only the finishes changing.
The Bavaria I740FC is a flagship. This A-class is prized for its spacious living area, quality materials, and elegant finishes.
Another popular model is the Bavaria T726FC, a coachbuilt that combines function and comfort with a clever layout. With Bavaria you travel in an elegant, refined setting, always ready for new adventures.
Knaus, German quality
Knaus has been bringing German quality to travelers since 1960. The brand offers a wide range of recreational vehicles, from A-class and coachbuilt motorhomes to campervans and caravans. Knaus stands out for innovative design and advanced engineering, delivering reliable, modern vehicles.
The Knaus Sun TI is a perfect example of their know-how. This coachbuilt offers excellent driving comfort and a well-planned interior. If you prefer campervans, the Knaus Boxstar is a reference: compact, practical, and ideal for getaways in total freedom.
Bürstner, elegance from the Hymer group
Bürstner, another Hymer-group brand, is known for elegant, comfortable motorhomes. For more than 60 years it has offered a wide range of recreational vehicles, including A-class, coachbuilt, and campervans. The brand is recognized for its refined interior design and innovative comfort solutions.
The Bürstner Lyseo TD is a much-loved model. This coachbuilt offers a bright living space and modern equipment for top comfort. The Bürstner Ixeo T, with its innovative drop-down bed, is also very popular: it combines elegance and function, perfect for demanding travellers.
Pössl, the panel-van conversion specialist
Pössl is a German brand specializing in panel-van conversions, and it excels at it. Founded in 1989, it quickly became a leader in the campervan market thanks to clever concepts and practical layouts. Pössl vehicles are ideal for anyone after freedom and flexibility on the road.
The Pössl Roadcamp R is a flagship. This compact conversion offers a smart layout and plenty of comfort despite its small size. The slightly roomier Pössl Summit 640 is also very popular, combining comfort and function with great flexibility for all kinds of trips.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Which is the best-selling motorhome brand?
Pilote was the best-selling motorhome brand in 2022 with 1,453 registrations in France, according to UNI VDL data. If you look at the wider recreational-vehicle market, Volkswagen takes the top spot with 1,598 registrations.
Which is the best motorhome brand?
There is no single "best" brand: it depends on your needs, your personal preferences, and the specific model. That is why we would suggest visiting a motorhome show to get a feel for what suits you. That said, makers like Hymer, Pilote and Rapido are often cited for their quality, innovation, and comfort.
Which is the most reliable motorhome brand?
As with the "best brand", it is hard to name the most reliable. Hymer is often considered one of the most dependable, thanks to its long experience and the robustness of its vehicles, known for durability and build quality. Our Swinguy would not argue with that.
Which motorhome brand should you avoid?
It is hard to single out one brand to avoid, as experiences vary by owner, dealer, and model. It is always wise to read owner reviews, test feedback, and after-sales reputations before buying, especially for lesser-known brands or budget models. Think about resale value too: a well-regarded brand sells more easily second-hand.
Should you rent a motorhome before buying?
A word of advice before spending tens of thousands of euros on a motorhome: rent one first.
It lets you form your own opinion and see whether the vehicle really suits you. Renting before you buy is one of the best ways to avoid an expensive mistake.
Once you have chosen your motorhome, France is waiting. A great place to start is our guide to Brittany by motorhome.
And you, what is your favorite motorhome brand? We have not tested them all yet, so we would love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
Pauline & Simon
Pauline & Simon
Pauline & Simon
Pauline & Simon