Functional German motorhomes for all you need on the road at a competitive price
German brand Carado has built a reputation for motorhomes that combine great value with practical design and quality workmanship. One of the most successful motorhome brands in Europe, Carado is also a popular choice with Kiwis looking for a more affordable way of enjoying life on the road.
With Carado what you see is what you get and that’s a well-designed, reliable and functional German motorhome. You'll also enjoy the features you’d expect in a high-end RV, such as quality mattresses, practical kitchens and bathrooms, plenty of storage, and central heating and insulation designed for European seasons.
Carado can offer its German designed and built motorhomes at such competitive prices thanks to its highly streamlined production processes and focus on making a small range of models to the highest possible standard at its German manufacturing facility. Read more about the Carado story.
Choose Carado for a reliable, German-made motorhome that will hold its value and open up a whole new world of freedom, without compromising on style and comfort.
Carado is part of the Erwin Hymer Group and imported exclusively into New Zealand by Wilderness.
Carado is renowned for offering a relatively lower-priced product but with the high quality you’d expect from some of the more premium motorhome manufacturers.
The brand has earned a strong reputation— in a fairly short period of time — for recreational vehicles that combine great value with reliable functionality. If you want to make travelling a breeze, you should absolutely consider Carado.
Carado is one of many brands in the Erwin Hymer Group stable. The Erwin Hymer Group is Germany’s largest recreational vehicle manufacturer and one of the most reputable motorhome brands in the world.
In 1957, in the idyllic lakeside town of Bad Waldsee in southern Germany, Erwin Hymer laid the foundations of what would become the Erwin Hymer Group. Fueled by an extraordinary pioneering spirit, the world's very first motorhome was built.
The Erwin Hymer Group underwent substantial expansion and growth in the 1980s. Witnessing a period of remarkable progress, the company:
Diversified its product range — unveiling new models
Extended its footprint across European markets.
Having acquired some popular mid and high end brands like Eriba and Bürstner respectively, the Erwin Hymer Group wanted to grow its share of the entry level market. This led to the development of two new brands.
It was in 2004 when well-established German motorhome companies HYMER and Dethleffs came together to discuss how they could develop entry level motorhomes. They each wanted a brand that could compete at the value end of the market where they both lacked presence.
As part of their strategic alliance, HYMER and Dethleffs established the Capron factory. This venture would share a motorhome production line that would build their two new value brands — Carado and Sunlight.
Both Carado and Sunlight motorhomes would be manufactured under the same roof with identical structures. However, distinctive variations emerged in each brand’s furniture, flooring and interior fabrics — letting them target slightly different market segments with their own unique brand identities.
Operations commenced the following year at a redeveloped manufacturing facility in Neustadt in Sachsen, Germany. Located in the eastern region of the country near Dresden, it set the stage for their collaborative success.
Carado specialises in building a small range of models to the highest possible standards at its German manufacturing facility. The company is able to offer motorhomes at highly competitive prices thanks to its optimised manufacturing procedures.
By focusing on the most popular interior layouts, Carado can optimise its operation. The company only offers nine base models that can be either semi-integrated or integrated RVs.
The process is further simplified by standardising parts across the models — enabling longer production runs when compared to other motorhome manufacturers.
Choices around interior styles are also reduced to improve efficiency in the Capron factory. By making parts and materials logistics simpler, Carado is able to operate more efficiently while also reducing the chances of errors.
Much of the success of Carado comes back to how the business is able to utilise the Capron production facility. With a sharp focus on affordability, reliability and German engineering, the Capron factory found ways to increase productivity and meet growing demand.
Highly motivated employees have been instrumental in the success of Capron. Every worker on Capron's 450m production line is a qualified tradesperson — from plumbers to electricians and mechanics to carpenters.
The Capron factory’s commitment to its employees is evident through its apprenticeship programme and generous staff bonus system.
To ensure the quality of Carado vehicles, the factory has a rigorous control programme. One finished motorhome per hour is randomly sent to quality control for a meticulous inspection after it rolls off the production line. If the checks meet the target, a monthly bonus is awarded to the entire team — reinforcing a culture of excellence and shared success.
This level of quality control from highly motivated employees partly explains how Carado has achieved so much in such a short space of time.
The 2010s saw rapid growth and increased market share for Carado throughout Europe — particularly in major markets like Germany, Finland and Norway.
The accelerating popularity of Carado came down to the brand’s:
Affordability — providing an excellent value proposition for customers
Quality construction — being built with attention to detail and a commitment to high standards
Reliable performance — through withstanding variable terrain and weather conditions.
It was a big year for Carado in 2017 when the business produced its 40,000th motorhome and began introducing integrated motorhomes into its product portfolio.
Carado are currently Europe's biggest-selling motorhome brand — and one of the most popular in New Zealand.
Get the full inside story on Carado motorhomes.
Carado distinguish themselves from the crowd by building well-designed motorhomes that are reliable, functional and excellent value for money.
Carado takes a pragmatic approach with a mission to create clever solutions and well-planned room concepts.
You’ll find Carado RVs equipped with many practical components. The brand also features details that have been thoughtfully designed — to help you easily pursue your favourite holiday activities in comfort. Such details include:
Strategically-placed LED lighting — for ambience and completing certain tasks like cooking or reading
Climate control — with heating and cooling systems integrated into the design for a consistently comfortable interior temperature
Optimising space — with multifunctional areas, clever storage solutions and foldaway furniture.
Thoughtful placement of windows and vents — to allow plenty of natural light inside.
The reliability of Carado motorhomes comes from a combination of German engineering, streamlined production, quality materials, thorough quality control and a skilled workforce.
Positive customer feedback reinforces Carado’s growing reputation for reliable recreational vehicles. The backing of the Erwin Hymer Group also significantly contributes to the reliability of the brand.
See which German motorhome brand might be right for you.
Carado can offer an unbeatable price-to-performance ratio. By carefully balancing cost considerations with quality and functionality, the brand is able to create value in its motorhomes.
Carado is certainly well-placed for further growth. It has a core supporter base in Germany — while the UK, France and Italy are not far behind in their admiration for the brand.
Having first been imported into New Zealand in volume in the early 2010s, exclusively by Wilderness Motorhomes, Kiwi motorhome owners are also becoming fond of Carado.
Carado are well supported in New Zealand by an experienced after sales team with access to a large stock of spare parts. Wilderness knows Carado motorhomes inside-out and are able to help you through any after sales assistance you may need — from servicing to warrants and accessories to repairs.
In Carado’s relatively short existence, the brand has been remarkably successful in winning multiple prestigious industry awards. For instance, they:
Claimed 1st place | Price/Performance Reisemobil International König Kunde Award — for the specialist German motorhome journal in 2022
Picked up the award for Special Price | Family Friendly Vehicles in 2022
Picked up 1st place | Overall Winner Reisemobil International König Kunde Award (Customer is King Award) in 2021.
Take a look at other recent awards won by Carado.
Carado motorhomes have permanent beds like most German made RVs. They can either be fixed to the floor or connected to the ceiling — dropping down when needed in the evening.
Permanent beds ensure a superior sleep experience because they have extremely comfortable mattresses rather than makeshift ones using couch cushions. However, extra bathroom or kitchen space can be the trade off for this level of comfort.
The two main Carado layouts imported into New Zealand are the full-size and compact models — both with front lounges.
The one that works best for you will depend on your priority list when shopping for a motorhome.
Check out our buyers’ guide to length, layout and floor plan.
Carado’s full-size layout features:
A front lounge with swivelling driver’s and passenger’s seats
A galley kitchen
Separate or combined bathroom midships
Permanent beds in the back.
There’s also a double drop down bed above the lounge area. It can sleep extra guests and will tuck away just below the ceiling during the daytime.
This layout has a couple of rear bed options. Two single beds can convert into a super generous king or you can choose an easily accessible island bed — ideal if you’re less mobile.
See the For Sale tab in the side menu above to check which models are currently available.
Carado’s compact layout is perfect if you want a motorhome that’s easier to drive. As a two berth, it’s ideal for either a couple or two friends who enjoy travelling together.
For example, the open layout in the Carado T135 features a:
Spacious front lounge — with swivel cab seats
Rear corner double bed
Galley kitchen
Rear combined toilet and shower.
Expect quality throughout both the compact and full-size models — with a practical kitchen, a highly functional bathroom, plenty of storage and central heating with insulation designed for European winters.
Discover how to choose a motorhome with the right heating system for winter travels.
Carado motorhomes have advantages over some other European motorhomes when it comes to gaining a higher payload. The brand has achieved this by:
Avoiding unnecessary weight — through prioritising essential amenities and omitting excessive luxury additions
Building with lightweight materials and components — which contribute to a lower base vehicle weight and a higher payload capacity.
See our guide on motorhome weight and payload for more detail on how important it is.
Carado are priced at the lower end of imported German motorhomes. Expect prices for a brand new Carado to start at around $185,000.
Used Carado motorhomes occasionally come on the market — including some ex-rentals. They’re usually about three years old and are priced from about $135,000.
There are a few essential factors to weigh up if you’re considering a used motorhome, like:
Dependability — be certain you’re buying a reliable base vehicle
Warranties and guarantees — particularly for the fit out, batteries and water tightness
After sales support — look into what expert advice and servicing will be available after purchasing your motorhome.
Carado motorhomes aren’t immune to global changes in supply and demand. It’s expected that supply shortages along with increasing demand will keep waitlists long and prices elevated for a while.
Some buyers have hired a Carado motorhome for a holiday before they purchased one. Trying before you buy is a smart way to experience whether a Carado is the right motorhome for you.
Our dedicated team of experts is here weekdays to assist you in your pursuit of purchasing a Carado motorhome. Don't hesitate to get in touch with any questions you may have about Carado.
Check out our Carado motorhomes currently for sale.
Carado prioritise driving safety in their recreational vehicles by incorporating electronic stability control (ESC). This system effectively prevents potential oversteering or understeering, allowing you to maintain better control of your motorhome even if it veers off your intended path.
Recent versions of ESC also include crosswind assist — which stabilises your motorhome during strong crosswinds. Furthermore, Carado have implemented a post-collision braking system that automatically applies the brakes in the event of a crash — reducing the risk of secondary collisions.
To ensure a safe and efficient braking experience, Carado vehicles are equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS). This feature prevents the wheels from locking up when you need to stop abruptly — improving overall braking performance.
Carado motorhomes come equipped with a traction control system (TCS) that detects instances of wheel traction loss. When the system identifies such situations, it intervenes by preventing the wheels from spinning — thereby enhancing your motorhome's stability during initial movement.
Hill holder technology is designed to assist with hill starts in Carado motorhomes. It temporarily holds your motorhome in place when you release the brake pedal — giving you ample time to switch to the accelerator pedal without worrying about rollback.
Incorporating practicality and convenience, Carado motorhomes feature drawers with the brand's servo soft pull-in mechanism. This innovative technology ensures secure storage while driving. It also provides easy accessibility to your stored items when parked — enhancing overall convenience and safety.
Check out the latest Carado content from across the web.
2019 Carado T449 walkthrough video
Step into this visual tour of our Carado motorhomes gallery — where practical design meets quality workmanship.
Rotate the cab chairs for socialising in the Carado T135’s living area.
Enjoy the Carado T135’s generous kitchen with its multiple storage spaces.
Spread out and relax in the spacious front lounge of the Carado T459
Utilise the Carado T459 kitchen’s deep bench top, three gas hobs and oven.
Retreat to the Carado T447’s extra-long twin single beds that also convert into a king.
Fill up the expansive garage of the Carado T447 with all your favourite outdoor toys.
Get comfy in the easy-access queen island bed in the rear of the Carado T449.
Or elevate your sleep on the Carado T449’s front drop down bed.
German brand Carado has built a reputation for motorhomes that combine great value with practical design and quality workmanship. One of the most successful motorhome brands in Europe, Carado is also a popular choice with Kiwis looking for a more affordable way of enjoying life on the road.
With Carado what you see is what you get and that’s a well-designed, reliable and functional German motorhome. You'll also enjoy the features you’d expect in a high-end RV, such as quality mattresses, practical kitchens and bathrooms, plenty of storage, and central heating and insulation designed for European seasons.
Carado can offer its German designed and built motorhomes at such competitive prices thanks to its highly streamlined production processes and focus on making a small range of models to the highest possible standard at its German manufacturing facility. Read more about the Carado story.
Choose Carado for a reliable, German-made motorhome that will hold its value and open up a whole new world of freedom, without compromising on style and comfort.
Carado is part of the Erwin Hymer Group and imported exclusively into New Zealand by Wilderness.
Carado is renowned for offering a relatively lower-priced product but with the high quality you’d expect from some of the more premium motorhome manufacturers.
The brand has earned a strong reputation— in a fairly short period of time — for recreational vehicles that combine great value with reliable functionality. If you want to make travelling a breeze, you should absolutely consider Carado.
Carado is one of many brands in the Erwin Hymer Group stable. The Erwin Hymer Group is Germany’s largest recreational vehicle manufacturer and one of the most reputable motorhome brands in the world.
In 1957, in the idyllic lakeside town of Bad Waldsee in southern Germany, Erwin Hymer laid the foundations of what would become the Erwin Hymer Group. Fueled by an extraordinary pioneering spirit, the world's very first motorhome was built.
The Erwin Hymer Group underwent substantial expansion and growth in the 1980s. Witnessing a period of remarkable progress, the company:
Diversified its product range — unveiling new models
Extended its footprint across European markets.
Having acquired some popular mid and high end brands like Eriba and Bürstner respectively, the Erwin Hymer Group wanted to grow its share of the entry level market. This led to the development of two new brands.
It was in 2004 when well-established German motorhome companies HYMER and Dethleffs came together to discuss how they could develop entry level motorhomes. They each wanted a brand that could compete at the value end of the market where they both lacked presence.
As part of their strategic alliance, HYMER and Dethleffs established the Capron factory. This venture would share a motorhome production line that would build their two new value brands — Carado and Sunlight.
Both Carado and Sunlight motorhomes would be manufactured under the same roof with identical structures. However, distinctive variations emerged in each brand’s furniture, flooring and interior fabrics — letting them target slightly different market segments with their own unique brand identities.
Operations commenced the following year at a redeveloped manufacturing facility in Neustadt in Sachsen, Germany. Located in the eastern region of the country near Dresden, it set the stage for their collaborative success.
Carado specialises in building a small range of models to the highest possible standards at its German manufacturing facility. The company is able to offer motorhomes at highly competitive prices thanks to its optimised manufacturing procedures.
By focusing on the most popular interior layouts, Carado can optimise its operation. The company only offers nine base models that can be either semi-integrated or integrated RVs.
The process is further simplified by standardising parts across the models — enabling longer production runs when compared to other motorhome manufacturers.
Choices around interior styles are also reduced to improve efficiency in the Capron factory. By making parts and materials logistics simpler, Carado is able to operate more efficiently while also reducing the chances of errors.
Much of the success of Carado comes back to how the business is able to utilise the Capron production facility. With a sharp focus on affordability, reliability and German engineering, the Capron factory found ways to increase productivity and meet growing demand.
Highly motivated employees have been instrumental in the success of Capron. Every worker on Capron's 450m production line is a qualified tradesperson — from plumbers to electricians and mechanics to carpenters.
The Capron factory’s commitment to its employees is evident through its apprenticeship programme and generous staff bonus system.
To ensure the quality of Carado vehicles, the factory has a rigorous control programme. One finished motorhome per hour is randomly sent to quality control for a meticulous inspection after it rolls off the production line. If the checks meet the target, a monthly bonus is awarded to the entire team — reinforcing a culture of excellence and shared success.
This level of quality control from highly motivated employees partly explains how Carado has achieved so much in such a short space of time.
The 2010s saw rapid growth and increased market share for Carado throughout Europe — particularly in major markets like Germany, Finland and Norway.
The accelerating popularity of Carado came down to the brand’s:
Affordability — providing an excellent value proposition for customers
Quality construction — being built with attention to detail and a commitment to high standards
Reliable performance — through withstanding variable terrain and weather conditions.
It was a big year for Carado in 2017 when the business produced its 40,000th motorhome and began introducing integrated motorhomes into its product portfolio.
Carado are currently Europe's biggest-selling motorhome brand — and one of the most popular in New Zealand.
Get the full inside story on Carado motorhomes.
Carado distinguish themselves from the crowd by building well-designed motorhomes that are reliable, functional and excellent value for money.
Carado takes a pragmatic approach with a mission to create clever solutions and well-planned room concepts.
You’ll find Carado RVs equipped with many practical components. The brand also features details that have been thoughtfully designed — to help you easily pursue your favourite holiday activities in comfort. Such details include:
Strategically-placed LED lighting — for ambience and completing certain tasks like cooking or reading
Climate control — with heating and cooling systems integrated into the design for a consistently comfortable interior temperature
Optimising space — with multifunctional areas, clever storage solutions and foldaway furniture.
Thoughtful placement of windows and vents — to allow plenty of natural light inside.
The reliability of Carado motorhomes comes from a combination of German engineering, streamlined production, quality materials, thorough quality control and a skilled workforce.
Positive customer feedback reinforces Carado’s growing reputation for reliable recreational vehicles. The backing of the Erwin Hymer Group also significantly contributes to the reliability of the brand.
See which German motorhome brand might be right for you.
Carado can offer an unbeatable price-to-performance ratio. By carefully balancing cost considerations with quality and functionality, the brand is able to create value in its motorhomes.
Carado is certainly well-placed for further growth. It has a core supporter base in Germany — while the UK, France and Italy are not far behind in their admiration for the brand.
Having first been imported into New Zealand in volume in the early 2010s, exclusively by Wilderness Motorhomes, Kiwi motorhome owners are also becoming fond of Carado.
Carado are well supported in New Zealand by an experienced after sales team with access to a large stock of spare parts. Wilderness knows Carado motorhomes inside-out and are able to help you through any after sales assistance you may need — from servicing to warrants and accessories to repairs.
In Carado’s relatively short existence, the brand has been remarkably successful in winning multiple prestigious industry awards. For instance, they:
Claimed 1st place | Price/Performance Reisemobil International König Kunde Award — for the specialist German motorhome journal in 2022
Picked up the award for Special Price | Family Friendly Vehicles in 2022
Picked up 1st place | Overall Winner Reisemobil International König Kunde Award (Customer is King Award) in 2021.
Take a look at other recent awards won by Carado.
Carado motorhomes have permanent beds like most German made RVs. They can either be fixed to the floor or connected to the ceiling — dropping down when needed in the evening.
Permanent beds ensure a superior sleep experience because they have extremely comfortable mattresses rather than makeshift ones using couch cushions. However, extra bathroom or kitchen space can be the trade off for this level of comfort.
The two main Carado layouts imported into New Zealand are the full-size and compact models — both with front lounges.
The one that works best for you will depend on your priority list when shopping for a motorhome.
Check out our buyers’ guide to length, layout and floor plan.
Carado’s full-size layout features:
A front lounge with swivelling driver’s and passenger’s seats
A galley kitchen
Separate or combined bathroom midships
Permanent beds in the back.
There’s also a double drop down bed above the lounge area. It can sleep extra guests and will tuck away just below the ceiling during the daytime.
This layout has a couple of rear bed options. Two single beds can convert into a super generous king or you can choose an easily accessible island bed — ideal if you’re less mobile.
See the For Sale tab in the side menu above to check which models are currently available.
Carado’s compact layout is perfect if you want a motorhome that’s easier to drive. As a two berth, it’s ideal for either a couple or two friends who enjoy travelling together.
For example, the open layout in the Carado T135 features a:
Spacious front lounge — with swivel cab seats
Rear corner double bed
Galley kitchen
Rear combined toilet and shower.
Expect quality throughout both the compact and full-size models — with a practical kitchen, a highly functional bathroom, plenty of storage and central heating with insulation designed for European winters.
Discover how to choose a motorhome with the right heating system for winter travels.
Carado motorhomes have advantages over some other European motorhomes when it comes to gaining a higher payload. The brand has achieved this by:
Avoiding unnecessary weight — through prioritising essential amenities and omitting excessive luxury additions
Building with lightweight materials and components — which contribute to a lower base vehicle weight and a higher payload capacity.
See our guide on motorhome weight and payload for more detail on how important it is.
Carado are priced at the lower end of imported German motorhomes. Expect prices for a brand new Carado to start at around $185,000.
Used Carado motorhomes occasionally come on the market — including some ex-rentals. They’re usually about three years old and are priced from about $135,000.
There are a few essential factors to weigh up if you’re considering a used motorhome, like:
Dependability — be certain you’re buying a reliable base vehicle
Warranties and guarantees — particularly for the fit out, batteries and water tightness
After sales support — look into what expert advice and servicing will be available after purchasing your motorhome.
Carado motorhomes aren’t immune to global changes in supply and demand. It’s expected that supply shortages along with increasing demand will keep waitlists long and prices elevated for a while.
Some buyers have hired a Carado motorhome for a holiday before they purchased one. Trying before you buy is a smart way to experience whether a Carado is the right motorhome for you.
Our dedicated team of experts is here weekdays to assist you in your pursuit of purchasing a Carado motorhome. Don't hesitate to get in touch with any questions you may have about Carado.
Check out our Carado motorhomes currently for sale.
Carado prioritise driving safety in their recreational vehicles by incorporating electronic stability control (ESC). This system effectively prevents potential oversteering or understeering, allowing you to maintain better control of your motorhome even if it veers off your intended path.
Recent versions of ESC also include crosswind assist — which stabilises your motorhome during strong crosswinds. Furthermore, Carado have implemented a post-collision braking system that automatically applies the brakes in the event of a crash — reducing the risk of secondary collisions.
To ensure a safe and efficient braking experience, Carado vehicles are equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS). This feature prevents the wheels from locking up when you need to stop abruptly — improving overall braking performance.
Carado motorhomes come equipped with a traction control system (TCS) that detects instances of wheel traction loss. When the system identifies such situations, it intervenes by preventing the wheels from spinning — thereby enhancing your motorhome's stability during initial movement.
Hill holder technology is designed to assist with hill starts in Carado motorhomes. It temporarily holds your motorhome in place when you release the brake pedal — giving you ample time to switch to the accelerator pedal without worrying about rollback.
Incorporating practicality and convenience, Carado motorhomes feature drawers with the brand's servo soft pull-in mechanism. This innovative technology ensures secure storage while driving. It also provides easy accessibility to your stored items when parked — enhancing overall convenience and safety.
Check out the latest Carado content from across the web.
2019 Carado T449 walkthrough video
Step into this visual tour of our Carado motorhomes gallery — where practical design meets quality workmanship.
Rotate the cab chairs for socialising in the Carado T135’s living area.
Enjoy the Carado T135’s generous kitchen with its multiple storage spaces.
Spread out and relax in the spacious front lounge of the Carado T459
Utilise the Carado T459 kitchen’s deep bench top, three gas hobs and oven.
Retreat to the Carado T447’s extra-long twin single beds that also convert into a king.
Fill up the expansive garage of the Carado T447 with all your favourite outdoor toys.
Get comfy in the easy-access queen island bed in the rear of the Carado T449.
Or elevate your sleep on the Carado T449’s front drop down bed.
Clever use of space and a compact size make this 2-berth motorhome great value for money and the perfect way to venture even further off the beaten track in comfort.
Enjoy German design and functionality at a competitive price in this 4-berth motorhome.
Hit the road in Europe’s biggest selling motorhome brand and enjoy the design and functionality that Carado is renowned for.
This compact and functional 2-berth motorhome from Europe's biggest selling motorhome brand is your ticket to freedom.
Enjoy German design and functionality at a competitive price in this 4-berth motorhome, now with more payload.
Hit the road in Europe’s biggest selling motorhome brand and enjoy the design and functionality that Carado is renowned for.
Escape the rat race in this new model showcasing the best of Carado’s design and functionality.
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