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Weinsberg
Germany Est. 1969 Knaus Tabbert AG (publicly traded) View in showroom
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About Weinsberg

Weinsberg is the value-focused brand within the Knaus Tabbert AG group, offering German-engineered motorhomes and van conversions at prices that significantly undercut its premium sibling brand, Knaus. The relationship is deliberate: both brands share the same production facilities, engineering expertise and component supply chains, but Weinsberg targets buyers who prioritise value and functionality over prestige.

The current range uses a distinctive "Cara" naming convention across all model families:

The CaraBus — compact campervans on Fiat Ducato or Ford Transit chassis, ideal for couples or small families who want van-life flexibility with German build quality. Available with various layout options and two specification levels.

The CaraCompact — the model that defined the brand, combining compact semi-integrated motorhome practicality with city-friendly dimensions. Award-winning layouts that prove you don't need to spend a fortune for clever German design.

The CaraLoft — spacious semi-integrated models with fold-down beds, aimed at families and groups who need more sleeping capacity.

The CaraHome — family-friendly alcove motorhomes offering the most accommodation space in the range.

The CaraCore — Weinsberg's first fully integrated model, bringing A-class comfort to the mid-price market segment.

Weinsberg has also been a pioneer in sustainable camping technology, launching the CaraCito — the world's first fully electric caravan.

Ownership history

Weinsberg's roots trace back to the Karosseriewerke Weinsberg, a coachbuilding company established in Baden-Württemberg by Gustav Alt and Wilhelm Schuhmacher. The company initially built car bodies and worked with major automotive manufacturers including BMW, Daimler Benz and Opel. Following a period of rapid growth, the company was sold to Fiat, where it famously produced the legendary Fiat 500 Topolino.

In 1969, Weinsberg launched its first motorhome based on a Fiat 238, pivoting the brand into the recreational vehicle sector. Over the following decades, Weinsberg established itself in the international camping market with models like the Meteor (alcove), Imperiale (semi-integrated) and Cosmos (camping bus), all built on the then-new Fiat Ducato platform.

In 1992, the motorhome division was acquired by Tabbert Industrie AG, integrating Weinsberg into what would become Knaus Tabbert. Following the 2003 Knaus-Tabbert merger, Weinsberg was strategically repositioned in 2008 as the group's value-oriented brand, designed to appeal to younger customers and first-time buyers with an excellent price-to-performance ratio.

Today, Weinsberg operates as the budget brand within the Knaus Tabbert AG portfolio, sharing the same German engineering knowledge and production facilities as its premium sibling Knaus, but targeting a different market segment — much like Škoda's relationship to Volkswagen.

What Weinsberg is known for

Unbeatable price-performance ratio — Weinsberg's defining characteristic is delivering genuine Knaus Tabbert engineering at significantly lower prices. The shared production facilities and component supply chain mean the quality gap is far smaller than the price gap, making Weinsberg exceptional value.

Award-winning compact design — the CaraCompact EDITION [PEPPER] won the prestigious "Das goldene Reisemobil" award, demonstrating that budget pricing doesn't mean compromised design. Weinsberg consistently punches above its weight in industry awards.

Ideal for first-time buyers — the brand is specifically positioned for newcomers to motorhoming. The straightforward, uncomplicated approach to design and operation, combined with accessible pricing, removes barriers to entry for buyers who might find premium brands intimidating.

German engineering at budget prices — unlike budget brands from manufacturers with less engineering heritage, Weinsberg benefits from Knaus Tabbert's decades of German RV manufacturing expertise. The engineering fundamentals — construction quality, insulation, electrical systems — reflect this heritage.

Ford Transit availability — the CaraBus is available on Ford Transit chassis as well as Fiat Ducato, giving UK buyers a choice of base vehicle and the familiarity of Ford dealer servicing.

Why people choose Weinsberg

If you're a first-time motorhomer on a budget — Weinsberg is specifically designed for you. The accessible pricing, straightforward operation and German build quality make it the ideal entry point into motorhoming without the financial commitment of premium brands.

If you want German quality without German prices — sharing Knaus Tabbert's engineering and production with a lower price tag means genuine German construction quality at a fraction of what Knaus or Hymer would cost.

If you're young or young at heart — Weinsberg's contemporary design language and fresh approach to motorhome interiors appeals to a younger demographic than traditional brands. The styling feels current rather than dated.

If compact city-friendly touring is your style — the CaraBus and CaraCompact ranges are designed for buyers who want the freedom of motorhoming combined with the manoeuvrability needed for everyday driving and urban exploration.

If you want to try motorhoming before committing — the lower purchase price means less financial risk if you discover motorhoming isn't for you. The depreciation in absolute terms is more manageable than premium brands.

What to watch out for

Budget-level interior specification — while the engineering is sound, the interior materials, soft furnishings and fittings reflect the lower price point. Expect functional rather than luxurious finishes, and don't compare directly with premium brands on interior ambiance.

Limited UK presence — Weinsberg has a smaller UK dealer network than domestic brands, and brand awareness among UK buyers is lower than mainstream manufacturers. This can affect resale values and make servicing less convenient.

Most models are left-hand drive — many Weinsberg models are only available in LHD, significantly limiting the choice for UK buyers. Check carefully that any model you're considering is available in right-hand drive.

Payload can be tight on budget models — to hit competitive price points, some models may be specified on lighter chassis with less payload capacity than premium equivalents. Weigh carefully before purchase.

Resale values can be lower — the budget positioning and lower UK brand recognition mean Weinsberg motorhomes may depreciate faster in percentage terms than better-known brands. However, the lower purchase price means the absolute depreciation is more manageable.

Less premium feel on longer trips — while perfectly adequate for weekends and short breaks, the budget specification can feel less comfortable on extended touring compared to mid-range and premium alternatives.

What to check when buying a used Weinsberg

Verify UK specification — confirm the vehicle is right-hand drive with UK-compatible gas and electrical systems. Many Weinsberg models on the used market may be continental imports requiring conversion verification.

Check the payload capacity — weigh the vehicle at a weighbridge and verify remaining payload. Budget models can have tight payload margins, particularly once personal equipment and accessories are loaded.

Conduct a standard damp check — use a calibrated damp meter on all walls, around windows, doors and rooflights. While German construction is generally good, budget models may have less generous sealing than premium equivalents.

Check the Fiat Ducato or Ford Transit base vehicle — standard base vehicle inspection protocols apply. On Ducato models, verify cam belt history and check clutch. On Transit models, check injector service history.

Inspect interior fittings for wear — budget-specification interiors can show wear more quickly than premium materials. Check cupboard hinges, soft close mechanisms, upholstery condition and worktop surfaces.

Test all systems — run heating, water, fridge and electrical systems through a complete cycle. Budget models have the same fundamental systems as premium brands, but verify everything works correctly.

Pre-purchase checklist
  • Verify vehicle is genuine right-hand drive UK specification
  • Check gas system is UK compatible
  • Verify electrical system meets UK standards
  • Weigh vehicle at weighbridge and check payload
  • Conduct damp check with calibrated meter on all surfaces
  • Check all window and door seals
  • Inspect around rooflights for water ingress
  • On Fiat models verify cam belt replacement history
  • On Ford models check injector service history
  • Test clutch operation and gearbox condition
  • Check for oil leaks on base vehicle
  • Inspect interior cupboard hinges and soft close mechanisms
  • Check upholstery condition for excessive wear
  • Test heating system to full temperature
  • Test water heater on gas and electric
  • Run fridge on both gas and electric
  • Test all 12V and 240V circuits
  • Check leisure battery condition
  • Verify habitation service history
  • Check current MOT and advisory history
Warranty advice

Weinsberg provides manufacturer warranty through the Knaus Tabbert AG group. When buying used, verify the warranty status and service history to ensure any remaining coverage is valid.

An independent warranty backed by the RAC is recommended for used Weinsberg purchases, particularly given the potentially limited UK dealer network for warranty claims and the cost of sourcing German-manufactured components.

OakTree Motorhomes offer up to three years of RAC-backed warranty, providing essential peace of mind on a budget-range motorhome where unexpected repair costs would represent a proportionally larger financial burden.

Dealer warranty

When buying a used Weinsberg, 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.

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Weinsberg at a glance
Founded
1969
Country
Germany
Owner
Knaus Tabbert AG (publicly traded)
In stock
0
Models listed
0
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Mention the WILD500 offer code when enquiring.
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