Knaus обновляет легендарный Sudwind Black Selection, combining modern design, premium features, and surprisingly competitive pricing.
Knaus often calls the Sudwind travel trailer a true “piece of caravanning history.” The model first appeared back in 1962 and quickly became one of the brand’s most recognizable RVs. With a legacy like that, it might seem difficult to reinvent the formula. But that’s exactly what the company is attempting with the latest special edition.
The German RV manufacturer, one of Europe’s largest and oldest in the industry, has given the classic trailer a modern twist with the 2026 Sudwind Black Selection. This edition replaces last year’s 60 Years Edition and introduces updated styling along with a long list of features.
For the 2026 model year, several Knaus products will be available with the Black Selection treatment, and the Sudwind lineup is part of that expansion. The range currently includes 16 different floor plans, covering everything from compact layouts to larger family-friendly options. The idea behind the Black Selection package is simple: give buyers a more upscale look and additional features without pushing the price too far beyond reach.
Still, it’s worth doing a bit of research before assuming it’s a bargain. The Sudwind Black Selection remains a premium trailer, but buyers get more value because the bundled package costs less than adding the same options individually.
The floor plan highlighted here sits near the smaller end of the lineup. It’s called the Sudwind 450 FU Black Selection, the second-smallest configuration available. The “FU” stands for French bed and U-shaped seating, meaning the layout is ideal for couples but can still sleep up to four people when needed.
Underneath, the trailer rides on a single-axle AL-KO chassis fitted with 17-inch alloy wheels, an AL-KO AAA Premium Brake system, and hydraulic wheel shock absorbers. On top sits Knaus’ patented Pro.Tec frame, along with a fiberglass-reinforced plastic roof and composite sidewalls finished in smooth sheet metal.
Overall length measures about 22 feet, with the body itself around 17.5 feet long and 7.6 feet wide. That extra width helps create a bit more moving space inside the cabin.
Standard equipment also includes heavy-duty AL-KO crank supports, automatic reverse drive assistance, and a servo-assisted handbrake. LED exterior lighting and automotive-inspired styling round out the outside design.
Visually, the Sudwind is clearly positioned as a high-end caravan. The exterior looks sleek and modern, and the Black Selection package makes it even more distinctive with a Campovolo Gray finish, anthracite accents, and chrome badging. While most buyers don’t pick an RV purely based on looks, the Sudwind certainly makes a strong first impresion.
Inside, the layout places a U-shaped lounge at the rear and the bedroom area up front with the French bed and bathroom nearby. The rear dinette easily converts into a second sleeping area—just lower the table and rearrange the cushions to create a double bed.
The French bed arrangement is common in European trailers. It sits pushed into a corner along one side of the trailer, leaving a narrow walkway that leads to the compact bathroom space. The bathroom itself includes a cassette toilet and an optional shower with curtain, while the sink and vanity area are located just outside, separated by that walkway.
It’s a bit of a compromise, but it helps keep the layout efficient while still providing most of the functionality of a larger bathroom. The shower is more of an occasional-use feature than something intended for everyday use, but the vanity with sink and storage is full-size—good news for anyone who spends a little extra time getting ready in the morning.
Storage around the bed is plentiful. There are overhead cabinets with soft-close hinges and push-to-lock latches, along with a large storage area beneath the mattress. Lift the slatted base and you’ll find a surprisingly spacious compartment that’s also accessible from the outside—ideal for bulkier gear you don’t need every day.
The middle section of the trailer is occupied by the kitchen, designed as a single-block galley with enough prep space for everyday cooking. Standard equipment includes a three-burner cooktop, a round stainless-steel sink, and a 98-liter (about 3.5-cubic-foot) refrigerator tucked under the counter. Drawers and storage cubbies are built into the cabinetry.
Across from the kitchen sits a wardrobe with hanging space and an additional cabinet below. Near the entry door there’s also a wall mount for a TV—though the television itself is optional—along with a cabinet underneath designed to store glassware and other items.
The dinette area continues the residential-style theme with fabric curtains on every window, open shelving in the corners, touch-activated LED reading lights, and accent lighting above the cabinets. A large opening skylight brings in extra light and ventilation.
Standard features include a Vario Heat heating system, Bluetooth audio with integrated speakers, and one-key locking for the doors and compartments. Fresh water storage is about 12 gallons, while the waste tank holds around 6.6 gallons and can be rolled out for dumping. Interior cabinets are finished in Modern Oak, and the floor uses wood-style vinyl—though full carpeting is available as an option.
Speaking of options, buyers can add bike racks, an awning, AL-KO Trailer Control stability assistance, electric underfloor heating, a 2.6-gallon gas water heater, city-water hookup, smart TV, Wi-Fi antenna, an extended shower setup, and several different air-conditioning units. There are also multiple choices for interior fabrics and color combinations.
The 2026 Sudwind 450 FU Black Selection carries a maximum allowable weight of about 3,748 pounds, with roughly 624 pounds of payload capacity. Buyers can optionally increase the weight rating if needed.
Knaus describes the Sudwind lineup as combining “innovative details, high-quality extras, and a charisma you won’t forget.” And for many RV shoppers, that mix of style and practicality is exactly the appeal.
Pricing for the Sudwind 450 FU Black Selection starts at around $30,000, though the final cost depends heavily on options and dealer pricing. In most cases, buyers can expect transaction prices to land somewhere between about $31,100 and $38,000.