Dethleffs is one of the most historically significant names in European leisure vehicles, having effectively invented the German caravan in 1931. Founded by Arist Dethleffs in Isny im Allgäu, Bavaria, the company has nearly a century of manufacturing heritage and is widely regarded as one of the benchmark German motorhome brands.

Now part of the Erwin Hymer Group (owned by US giant THOR Industries), Dethleffs produces a comprehensive range of motorhomes, campervans and caravans from its factory in the Allgäu Alps. The brand sits alongside Hymer, Bürstner, Niesmann+Bischoff and Laika in one of the world's most prestigious portfolios of leisure vehicle manufacturers.

The Dethleffs motorhome range covers everything from the compact Globebus semi-integrated through mid-range Trend and Esprit models to the premium Pulse, Alpa and flagship Grand Alpa A-class motorhomes. The Globetrotter remains one of the most iconic names in the range. All models are built with German engineering precision and designed for genuine four-season touring.

Dethleffs has won multiple industry awards including the prestigious Golden Steering Wheel and the German Fairness Prize (three times). The company was also a pioneer in electric motorhome development, presenting the e.home concept — the first fully electric motorhome from a major manufacturer.

Dethleffs was founded in 1931 by Arist Dethleffs in Isny im Allgäu, Bavaria, Germany. Determined not to leave his family behind on business trips, Dethleffs built Germany's first 'Wohnauto' (camper car) — an innovation that effectively launched the German leisure vehicle industry.

The company began serial caravan production in 1956, established its first production line in 1961, and built its first motorhome in 1983 — becoming the first German manufacturer to use the Fiat Ducato chassis for coachbuilt models. The A-class range followed in 1989.

Dethleffs joined the Erwin Hymer Group in 2015, joining a portfolio that includes Hymer, Bürstner, Laika, Niesmann+Bischoff and others. In 2019, THOR Industries (NYSE: THO) acquired the Erwin Hymer Group for approximately €2.1 billion, creating the world's largest recreational vehicle manufacturer with leading positions in both North America and Europe.

Despite these corporate changes, Dethleffs continues to manufacture at its original site in Isny im Allgäu in the Alpine foothills, where over 7,000 vehicles roll off the production line each year.

German engineering excellence — nearly a century of manufacturing expertise from the Allgäu Alps. Dethleffs motorhomes are renowned for precision construction, superb insulation and build quality that typically outlasts British-built rivals by years.

Outstanding winter capability — built in the Alpine foothills, Dethleffs motorhomes are designed for genuine cold-weather use. Excellent insulation, efficient heating systems and robust construction make them popular with owners who tour year-round including winter.

Family-focused design philosophy — Dethleffs has always positioned itself as a family brand, with layouts and features designed for comfortable touring with children. Multiple berth configurations, practical storage and durable interiors reflect this philosophy.

Strong resale value — German-built motorhomes typically depreciate more slowly than British equivalents, and Dethleffs owners frequently report getting back close to their purchase price when selling. The brand commands a premium in the used market.

Historic significance — as the company that built Germany's first caravan in 1931, Dethleffs carries genuine heritage and prestige that resonates with enthusiasts who value the history and tradition of motorhoming.

If you want German build quality — Dethleffs represents the gold standard of European motorhome construction. The precision engineering, quality of materials and attention to detail typically surpass what British manufacturers offer, particularly in areas like insulation, panel fit and habitation door mechanisms.

If you tour in cold weather — the Allgäu-built construction is designed for Alpine winters. If you ski, tour Scandinavia, or regularly camp in the Scottish Highlands through winter, a Dethleffs will keep you warm and comfortable when lesser vehicles struggle.

If you travel as a family — Dethleffs' family-focused design philosophy means layouts are specifically designed for comfortable touring with children, with practical storage, durable finishes and berth configurations that work for real families.

If long-term value matters — the higher purchase price is offset by slower depreciation and longer lifespan. Many Dethleffs motorhomes with 150,000+ miles remain in excellent condition, and resale values are consistently strong.

If you want the backing of the world's largest RV group — ownership by THOR Industries via the Erwin Hymer Group means access to vast engineering resources, a wide dealer network and long-term brand stability.

Premium pricing — Dethleffs motorhomes cost significantly more than comparable UK-built alternatives. The German build quality commands a premium, and the price difference over a Bailey, Swift or Auto-Trail can be substantial.

Some quality concerns on newer models — long-standing enthusiasts note that older Dethleffs models (particularly pre-2015) had superior build quality to more recent production. Some owners report issues including loose fittings, shower seal problems and occasional interior trim quality concerns on newer vehicles.

Fiat Ducato base vehicle issues — most Dethleffs motorhomes use the Fiat Ducato chassis, which has well-documented issues including clutch judder on certain model years. These are Fiat problems rather than Dethleffs problems, but they still affect the ownership experience.

Dealer and service network can be limited — Dethleffs requires servicing by authorised dealers, which can limit options in some parts of the UK. Finding a specialist can mean longer journeys for routine maintenance.

Fuel economy on larger models — the bigger A-class and large coachbuilt models can return around 20mpg or less, which adds significantly to touring costs compared with compact British-built alternatives.

Parts can be expensive and slow — German-specification components can take time to source in the UK and typically cost more than equivalent parts for domestic brands.

Damp check remains essential — even German build quality isn't immune to water ingress, particularly on older vehicles. Check all walls, ceiling and floor with a damp meter, focusing on window seals, roof lights and panel joints.

Check the Fiat Ducato base thoroughly — verify cam belt history (critical on Ducato engines), test for clutch judder, check all gears engage smoothly, and listen for unusual engine or transmission noises.

Inspect the habitation door and all seals — Dethleffs habitation doors are typically high quality, but check the seal condition and mechanism. Also inspect all window seals and roof light gaskets.

Test all appliances and heating systems — run every system including fridge (gas and electric), heating, water heater, all hob burners, and check the water pump and plumbing for leaks.

Check the service history carefully — Dethleffs vehicles should have been serviced by authorised dealers. A complete history adds significant value and confirms the vehicle has been properly maintained.

Inspect for any undeclared accident damage — check panel gaps, paint colour matching and look for signs of bodywork repair. German-built panels can be expensive to replace.

Consider the UK dealer network — before buying, research which Dethleffs dealers are within reasonable distance for servicing and warranty work.

When buying a used Dethleffs, look for a dealer offering an independent warranty backed by a provider like the RAC. German-specification components and specialist repairs can be significantly more expensive than on UK-built brands, making warranty cover particularly important.

Dethleffs' position within the Erwin Hymer Group provides access to a European parts network, but UK-specific parts supply can still be slower and more expensive than for domestic brands. A comprehensive warranty covering both the Fiat base vehicle and all habitation equipment is essential protection.

OakTree Motorhomes offer up to three years of RAC-backed warranty, which is especially valuable on premium European brands like Dethleffs where a single heating system or appliance repair can easily exceed £1,000.

When buying a used Dethleffs, look for a dealer that offers an independent warranty backed by a provider like the RAC. This means your warranty remains valid even if the dealer ceases trading. OakTree Motorhomes offer up to three years of RAC-backed warranty, covering the average ownership period.