Knaus · caravan
Knaus Südwind 500 QDK
RoamWorthy records the Knaus Südwind 500 QDK as a touring caravan. Recorded catalogue data: 5 to 6 berths; layout: Island Bed; length 7.31m; width 2.32m; height 2.57m; MTPLM 1,500kg; payload 220kg; recorded price range £18,500 to £34,500. No live dealer stock is currently linked to this model on RoamWorthy. Specifications can vary by model year, trim and optional equipment. Check the individual listing and manufacturer documentation before purchase.
Knaus Südwind 500 QDK key facts
- Berths: 5-6
- MTPLM: 1500 kg
- MIRO: 1280 kg
- Payload: 220 kg
- Length: 7.31 m
- Width: 2.32 m
- Observed price range: £18,500 to £34,500
Key features
- Triple-bunk bed option for larger families
- Knaus ServiceBox for centralised utility access
- AL-KO Delta Euro-axle chassis with AAA Premium Brakes
- Fold-up lower bunk to create a rear garage space
- Dimmable ambient lighting and integrated USB sockets
- Large 142-litre Thetford tower refrigerator
- Combi 6 Plus gas/electric heating system
A versatile family caravan with German engineering.
The Knaus Südwind 500 QDK is a 7.31m family caravan designed to accommodate five to six people. It features a specific layout including a front transverse fixed bed, a centre dinette, and rear bunk beds. With a 1500kg MTPLM and a 220kg payload, it balances robust construction, such as a hail-resistant GRP roof, with practical family features like a 142-litre refrigerator and a rear garage layout.
- Sleeps between 5 and 6 people depending on configuration.
- Features a fixed transverse double bed and rear bunk beds.
- Built on an AL-KO chassis with a 1500kg MTPLM.
- Equipped with a 142-litre Thetford tower refrigerator.
- Includes a 220kg payload for personal belongings.
Worth knowing: The 2.32m external width requires careful navigation on narrow roads. Payload capacity reduces if heavy factory options are added. Pricing reaches 34500 for higher-specification examples.
Buying a Knaus Südwind 500 QDK
Who it suits
- Touring families who require dedicated sleeping areas for up to six people.
- Year-round caravanners who benefit from the GRP roof and insulation properties.
- Drivers with a vehicle capable of towing a 1500kg MTPLM caravan.
Reasons to consider it
- High-performance AL-KO chassis with AAA Premium Brakes for stable towing.
- Versatile storage including a large wardrobe and under-bed compartments.
- Centralised utility access via the Knaus ServiceBox.
What to check
- Confirm if the specific unit has the optional triple-bunk bed or the standard double-bunk.
- Test the fold-up mechanism of the lower bunk to ensure the rear garage space meets your needs.
- Verify the operation of the Combi 6 Plus gas and electric heating system.
- Inspect the Knaus ServiceBox for easy access to water and electrical points.
Worth knowing: The 2.32m width is wider than some entry-level models, which may affect towing confidence in tight spaces. Check the specific weight of any fitted extras to ensure the 220kg payload remains sufficient.
Compare the Knaus Südwind 500 QDK with similar models
| Model | Berths | MTPLM | Length | Typical price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Knaus Südwind 500 QDK | 6 | 1500 kg | 7.31 m | £18,500 to £34,500 |
| Knaus Sport | 6 | 1500 kg | 7.31 m | £14,500 to £32,000 |
| Compass Casita | 6 | 1550 kg | 7.42 m | £14,000 to £32,500 |
The Knaus Südwind 500 QDK sits in a competitive price bracket between 18500 and 34500. Compared to the Swift Challenger 570, it offers a similar six-berth capacity but utilizes a transverse bed layout rather than the Challenger's 7.29m footprint. While the Sprite Major provides a longer 7.54m body at a lower starting price, the Südwind focuses on German build characteristics like the hail-resistant GRP roof and the specific ServiceBox utility point. The choice between these models often depends on whether the buyer prioritises the Knaus 1500kg MTPLM and 2.32m width over the different weight profiles of UK-manufactured alternatives.
Worth knowing: Specifications and prices can vary by model year, trim and optional equipment.
Practical ownership advice
- Utilise the rear garage space by folding the lower bunk when the bed is not in use.
- Make use of the integrated USB sockets and dimmable lighting to manage power and atmosphere.
- Regularly check the AL-KO Delta Euro-axle and stabiliser for optimal long-distance towing performance.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Overloading the 220kg payload by installing multiple heavy factory accessories.
- Miscalculating the 2.32m width when planning routes through narrow country lanes.
Worth knowing: The 1500kg MTPLM is fixed, so ensure your tow vehicle is legally compatible before purchase.
Alternatives to the Knaus Südwind 500 QDK
- Knaus Sport - The Knaus Sport offers a similar six-berth capacity and 7.31m length but starts at a lower price point of 14500.
- Compass Casita - The Compass Casita provides a six-berth layout with a slightly longer 7.42m body for those requiring more interior length.
- Swift Siena - The Swift Siena matches the 7.31m length of the Südwind but features a lower MTPLM of 1450kg.
Data and source notes
- This page uses the maintained RoamWorthy record for the Knaus Südwind 500 QDK.
- 10 model images are recorded for this page and served from RoamWorthy-hosted media.
Proof notes
- Specifications can differ by production year, trim and optional equipment.
- Dealer listings are used as current marketplace evidence, not as a substitute for the exact vehicle documentation.
Worth knowing: Confirm weights, dimensions and fitted equipment for the exact vehicle before purchase or towing.
Sources and review status for the Knaus Südwind 500 QDK
This page is supported by 1 recorded source group.
- RoamWorthy maintained model catalogue (editorial_database)
Last reviewed: 2026-06-05T10:37:31.080955+00:00