Malibu launches new motorhomes for 2026
Essential guide
A new generation of Malibu motorhomes came along in 2021 adopting new construction techniques, with a Mercedes-based Al-Ko option joining the line-up last year. Now, parent company, Carthago, is not resting on its laurels with a new look inside and out.
Rachel Scholes Content Editor: Motorhomes
Rachel Scholes Content Editor: Motorhomes
Malibu motorhomes
While Malibu campervans have been around for a while, it’s only been 10 years since the company introduced its motorhome line-up. The original models had three layouts and were one of the first of their class to offer a double floor. They also had a class-leading size of drop-down bed.
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Malibu A-class
Fast-forward to 2021 and we saw a new generation of motorhome adopting new construction techniques, with a Mercedes-based Al-Ko option joining the line-up last year. Well, parent company, Carthago, is not resting on its laurels with a new look inside and out.
You’ll instantly spot the chrome Malibu lettering on the grille, a distinctive look further enhanced by LED lights with black gloss surrounds. The graphics sweep along the sides while top-mounted black mirrors and A-pillars give off the air of a much more premium motorhome. The rear panel has been redesigned, smartly blending the rear lights into a defined black number plate surround. Note the separate bumper, though, lowering the cost for any accident repairs.
What hasn’t changed is the excellent build techniques with GRP hail-resistant roof, curved mouldings between side and roof and smart flush-fit windows, to name but a few features. You also get an excellent double floor with through loading – the LED lighting here helps you find exactly the accessory you are after.
Inside, the look gets two new style collections – nomos blends white and light wood with grey accents while the optional chiara has more walnut and dark grey tones, and is designed to appeal to a younger buyer. Concave lockers introduced last year remain, for a more spacious feel, but are handle-free for the coming year. Whatever the design, you get an anthracite-topped table with contrasting wooden edging.
The range, which had three floorplans last year, has grown to include two new layouts, the 470 RB-LE K with single beds and the 480 RB-QB K with an island bed, both of which are available on either Fiat or Mercedes, as well as at 3,500kg for those with a car licence or rated at 4,200kg for people that can drive heavier vehicles.
Key features
- Dynamic Design rear panel
- Nomos and chiara worlds of style interiors
- New 470 (single beds) and 480 (island bed) models with luxury washroom
Specifications
Malibu low-profiles
While A-classes have the benefit of the big drop-down bed and that low windscreen that provides a class-leading view of the road, the simple fact is that some people prefer driving a low-profile. That’s where Malibu’s T range comes in.
It gets the same Dynamic Design to the rear as the A-classes and prominent Malibu branding on the grille, while the exterior graphics flow from the headlights to the rear just as well. Remember, these models are available on either the Fiat Ducato or the Mercedes, too, all with double floors as per their A-class siblings.
Stepping inside, all models get flexible L-shaped lounge seating groups, with a swing-out shoe cabinet located below. The table, operated by a foot pedal, can be slid out of the way for access in and out of the cab or when relaxing. That double floor has an impact here as there’s no step between the cab and the rest of the living area. The TV stores vertically by the door in most models, but there is a pull-out system for the more compact T 430 KB-LE. Electric drop-down double beds are an option in the longer 450, 470 and 480 models.
Kitchens get a three-burner hob with a glass cover, a double-hinged fridge and six big drawers for your cooking essentials, although a low-level oven is an option.
Even on the most compact layouts where the washroom is an all-in-one affair, solid doors create a separate shower area with black tray, and the washroom door swings around to create a dressing area.
At the very back, you find individually adjustable mattresses for sitting up in bed, even on the island bed model, with mattress covers now matching the décor. Plus, that means you get enhanced storage in this area with all-round lockers for clothing.
Key features
- Two chassis, eight layouts, two weight classes to choose from
- Contemporary exterior and interior look
- Step-free interior living
Specifications
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