Model year 2026 is here!

Published

Design Leap, Innovations, and Technological Breakthroughs

– KABE presents extensive improvements both on and beneath the surface

The list of new features in KABE’s 2026 model lineup is long. The focus is on technology, design, and functionality with the aim of making customers’ motorhome and caravan experiences as worry-free and enjoyable as possible.
– This year’s model program is the most refined in many years, says Mikael Blomqvist, CEO of KABE.

KABE approaches the new model year with forward-thinking and strong confidence in the future. After several years of uncertain economic conditions, high interest rates, and cautious spending, the economy has stabilized, and more people now have the opportunity to invest in mobile living. Not least, the total caravan sales in Sweden experienced an almost sensational recovery during 2025, increasing by over 55 percent up to July 31. This bodes well for KABE, which remained strong as the market-leading manufacturer of caravans and motorhomes even during the challenging year of 2024. In the caravan segment, KABE held an impressive 28 percent share of the Swedish market, while the figure for motorhomes was 9 percent.

KABE’s strong position in the European competition was demonstrated when the prestigious awards “Caravans and Motorhomes of the Year 2025” and “European Innovation Award” were presented at the CMT fair in Stuttgart in January. KABE took home a total of nine awards, including being named “Caravan of the Year 2025” in the upper mid-range segment for the KABE Estate series, and in the “Equipment Design” category, KABE’s new Gas-under-Glass stove received first prize.

 

KABE launches the new Smart D 2.0

– new control panel for both caravans and motorhomes 

 KABE takes a technological leap with the new Smart D 2.0 control panel. The system is based on CAN-Bus technology, providing faster, more stable, and more precise control of the vehicle’s functions. It also features a new interface, Bluetooth, and automatic updates.

KABE's award-winning Smart D control panel has been upgraded. For the 2026 model year, Smart D 2.0 will be introduced, based on modern CAN-Bus technology – a robust and fast network system that enables different control systems in a motorhome or caravan to communicate with each other. This includes lighting, temperature, battery charging, brakes, and infotainment.

– Customers will notice a significant difference in response time. When you press the panel, the command is executed immediately, such as turning on a light, explains Zac Karlsson, Sales Manager Sweden.

Intuitive Interface and OTA

The seven-inch touch panel has a higher resolution than before and features a new interface that resembles the look of a smartphone. Smart D 2.0 is more user-friendly and intuitive, making it easy to swipe through menus to navigate to the desired function. The new system also enables OTA updates. OTA stands for Over-The-Air and means that software updates are performed automatically.

Apps and IP Radio

The new Smart D is equipped with Bluetooth, making it easy to connect your mobile phone or other Bluetooth devices to the display for purposes such as playing music.

– The system also has integrated apps, and the app selection will be expanded over time with services such as Spotify, explains Zac Karlsson.

There is also an integrated sound system with IP radio that offers radio channels from around the world. Furthermore, KABE’s motorhomes with the new Smart D system feature a so-called 3-in-1 charger. This means that the charger, booster, and solar regulator are combined into a single unit. KABE Smart D 2.0 is standard in the Royal and Imperial caravan series and in all motorhome series except Classic.

 KABE Smart D 2.0 Facts

  • Linux-based control system
  • High-resolution 7-inch touch panel
  • Integrated sound system with IP radio and Bluetooth
  • OTA updates (Over-The-Air requires a separate internet connection)
  • Advanced CAN-Bus communication with new I/O cards and updated software
  • Standard in the Royal and Imperial caravan series and in all motorhome series except Classic

KABE Motorhomes 2026

New Motorhome Program with Extensive Improvements

All series in KABE's motorhome program have been updated both externally and internally. Notable new features include a new ultra-low AL-KO chassis, modern skirting packages, over-cab storage with a new design language, a new control panel, more face-to-face sofas, and new specifications with lower base prices.
– This year's model program is the most refined in many years, says Mikael Blomqvist, CEO of KABE.< /strong>

Some improvements are not visible to the naked eye – such as larger water tanks, a new water pump, and lithium batteries – while the new super-low AL-KO chassis, the modern skirting package, and over-cab storage with a new design language on Crown and Imperial immediately catch the eye.

– We have reviewed the entire motorhome program and made both minor and major changes with the goal of meeting customer wishes, says Mikael Blomqvist, CEO of KABE.

Common to all motorhome series, except Classic, is the new control panel Smart D 2.0 with CAN-Bus technology. The system is fast, stable, and offers new features such as Bluetooth and OTA updates. All KABE motorhomes have also been equipped with a new exterior design featuring decals with a 3D effect.

Lowered chassis provides a major design upgrade

A significant new feature is that the front-wheel-drive integrated Crown and Imperial models now feature a new super-low AL-KO chassis. The chassis frame rails have been lowered by a full nine centimeters, creating more space between the floor and the ceiling.

–  It provides space for larger water tanks and more vacation packing. The fresh water tank is now 280 liters and the grey water tank 150 liters, says Zac Karlsson, Sales Manager Sweden. 

The new chassis also enables a new elegant skirt package with integrated recessed doors, higher garage doors, and a new rear wall.

– The new skirts give the motorhome a completely different look, modern and sleek. Together with the new exterior design, Crown and Imperial offer a new visual experience, says Zac. 

New elegant skirt package with integrated recessed doors and taller garage doors.

Electric Sunshades and New Toilet Solutions

Furthermore, Crown and Imperial have been equipped with new electric sunshades on the windshield and a roof-mounted awning. Crown and Imperial will also feature two new toilet options as accessories – Indus Eco and Cinderella Diesel. Indus Eco is a chemical-free, cassette-free toilet that can be emptied easily via a hose. Cinderella Diesel is a combustion toilet powered by diesel instead of propane.

New overhead cabinets and TV mount

New Overhead Cabinets and TV Mount

The Novum, Royal, Crown, and Imperial series are updated with upholstered walls at the rear of the vehicle for an even cozier impression. This solution involves removing the curtains, contributing to a more modern feel. The same model series also introduces new overhead cabinets that are seamlessly integrated with the front.

"The cabinets have a new construction and a new design language that make the vehicle feel more spacious and modern," says Zac.
In some models, a new height-adjustable TV mount is installed between the sofa and the kitchen.

"This applies to models where the TV was previously placed in an overhead cabinet. The new solution provides space for a 32-inch TV in the backrest of the seating area, which can be raised or lowered with the push of a button."

Face-to-face sofa

Furthermore, all motorhome models are equipped with the new, reliable, and quiet Lilie water pump. All series, except Classic, are fitted with a 100 Ah lithium battery. The top series Imperial is equipped with two lithium batteries, each 150 AH. To meet customer requests for more models with a face-to-face sofa, this option is now available for certain models in the Novum and Royal series.

"– The face-to-face sofa in Novum Compact was a success last year, so we are now expanding the number of models with this option," explains Zac Karlsson.

Updates to Classic

The entry-level series Classic is also being updated in several areas, including new light beige laminate cabinet doors for all overhead cabinets. Other new features include chrome handles, sleek reading lamps, and a square-shaped sink. Additionally, Classic will feature a new electrical system borrowed from the Estate and Ädelsten caravan series – a 230 V, 16 A fuse box with reliable circuit breakers.

KABE Van Changes Name

Abisko Van is the new name for KABE's panel van. The name change is made to further emphasize the compact model's qualities for year-round use. Abisko Van is equipped with the new KABE Smart D 2.0, and inside, a fresh, white interior is noticeable. The diesel heater Alde Compact 4000 D and lithium battery are included as standard.

New specifications provide customers with flexibility

New specifications provide customers with more choices

KABE is revising the specifications for motorhomes in the Novum, Royal, and Crown series. The change is an adaptation to the European markets, where KABE is gaining an increasing market share. By adjusting the specifications to align with other European manufacturers, it becomes easier for customers to compare different brands and models. In the new specifications, some equipment is removed and instead offered as optional packages. This results in a lower base price and allows customers to add the equipment they desire. KABE's top series Imperial is not affected by this change and continues to feature the same comprehensive specifications as standard.

Selection of motorhome news 2026 

  • New maneuver panel Smart D 2.0 with CAN-Bus technology (not Classic)
  • New ultra-low AL-KO chassis (Crown, Imperial)
  • New modern skirting package (Crown, Imperial)
  • Roof-mounted awning as an option (Crown, Imperial)
  • New electric sunshades in the windshield (Crown, Imperial)
  • Cinderella Diesel toilet as an option (Crown, Imperial)
  • Thetford Indus Eco toilet as an option (Crown, Imperial)
  • New reliable Lilie water pump
  • Lithium battery as standard
  • New overhead cabinets (not Abisko Van)
  • New exterior design with a 3D feel
  • Height-adjustable TV mount in the backrest of the seating group instead of a TV in the overhead cabinet
  • Face-to-face sofa as an option (certain models in Novum and Royal)
  • New model name, KABE Abisko Van
  • New overhead cabinets, new chrome handles, and a new square sink in Classic
  • New specifications for Novum, Royal, and Crown with lower base prices and more options

KABE Caravans 2026

KABE's Most Advanced Caravan Program Ever

KABE offers the market's widest range of caravans. For the 2026 model year, the lineup is further enhanced with features such as a new modern control panel, a new pillar table with a foldable extra leaf, and a completely redesigned exterior on the top-tier Imperial series. Additionally, a new configurator is introduced to make it easy to build your own KABE online.

KABE has been manufacturing caravans in Tenhult, Småland, since 1957 and has a well-established reputation as a producer of models tailored for the Scandinavian climate. For nearly 70 years, KABE has led the development of caravans and has introduced numerous innovations that have become industry standards and improved the camping experience for caravan owners across Europe. Today, the lineup consists of five series – Estate, Ädelsten, Royal, Hacienda, and Imperial – covering all the needs of a modern camper. From compact travel caravans to luxurious high-end models, all share one common trait – quality down to the smallest detail.

KABE Smart D 2.0

One of the biggest innovations for the 2026 model year is the launch of a new modern control panel providing an overview of, among other things, fresh and grey water levels, battery voltage, and management of lighting, AC, water heater, and temperature. KABE Smart D was introduced in 2017 and was awarded the European Innovation Award in the Connectivity category the same year. This year, an upgraded version of the system is being launched, offering significant advantages.

– The new Linux-based KABE Smart D 2.0 is built on modern CAN-Bus technology and provides faster, more stable, and more precise control of the vehicle’s functions, explains Marcus Svensson, Sales Manager Norway.

KABE Smart D 2.0 features an upgraded high-resolution touch panel with a 7-inch screen and a new interface that resembles the appearance of a smartphone. The new system also enables OTA updates, meaning Over-The-Air updates that are performed automatically. KABE Smart D 2.0 also includes Bluetooth, integrated apps, and an audio system with IP radio offering radio channels from around the world. KABE Smart D 2.0 is standard in the Royal and Imperial caravan series.

New Exterior Design

Another innovation for 2026 is that the Imperial series will feature a completely new exterior design with elegant 3D decor.

– Imperial is our most exclusive series and developed for those who want a caravan in the absolute premium segment. This year, the smooth, high-gloss surface has been updated with a three-dimensional decor that gives Imperial a sleek appearance, says Marcus Svensson.

Additionally, all caravan models with XL floor plans in King Size configuration — meaning caravans with 250 centimeters in width — will have a wider bed at the rear.

– By using a standard bathroom layout, the rear bed becomes nine centimeters wider. A great solution that makes a significant difference, says Marcus Svensson.

New Pillar Table

KABE also introduces a new pillar table as standard in all CXL and CTDL floor plans.

The so-called popup table features a foldable extra panel that provides a larger table surface – the two main panels can be easily pulled apart to create space. For the 2026 model year, KABE is also launching a new, faster website with updated features. 


– The website will become more user-friendly and clearer. Among other things, we are releasing a new improved configurator where customers can build their own KABE caravan and easily compare different models. The website will generally look better and make it easy to find your new KABE, 
concludes Marcus Svensson.

Selection of Caravan News 2026

  • New control panel KABE Smart D 2.0 with CAN-Bus technology
  • New exterior design for the Imperial series
  • New pillar table in all CXL and CTDL models
  • Nine centimeters wider bed in all King Size XL models
  • New upholstery, Tucson replaces Durham
  • New website
  • New configurator