Malibu is the premium van conversion and compact motorhome brand within the Carthago Group, offering a range that spans from compact campervans to fully integrated motorhomes. Every Malibu benefits from Carthago's premium DNA — the same quality standards, innovative engineering and attention to detail that define one of Europe's most respected motorhome manufacturers.

The range includes three main families:

The Malibu Van — the brand's core offering and four-time consecutive Motorhome of the Year winner. Compact Fiat Ducato-based campervans available in 11 layouts from 5.41m to 6.36m. The range includes the distinctive Charming and Charming GT Skyview variants with panoramic roof domes that create an extraordinary sense of space.

The Malibu T — semi-integrated motorhomes on Fiat or Mercedes chassis, combining modern design with practical functionality. Models like the T 490 LE offer flexible layouts with single beds and spacious living areas.

The Malibu I — fully integrated premium models with the highest level of living comfort and elegant features, representing the pinnacle of the Malibu range.

The Charming GT Skyview panoramic roof, introduced in 2018, is Malibu's signature innovation — replacing conventional overhead storage with a vast glass roof that transforms the interior ambiance with natural light and a feeling of spaciousness unprecedented in a van conversion.

Malibu shares its origins with Carthago, both founded by Karl-Heinz Schuler in 1979 when he observed the motorhome market and thought "That can be done better." While Carthago focused on premium coachbuilt motorhomes, Malibu was developed as the group's van conversion and compact motorhome brand.

The company's early history involved developing solutions primarily for Volkswagen Group vehicles before expanding onto the Fiat Ducato platform that dominates the range today. Malibu has always been characterised by personal commitment and family-run values.

Embedded within the owner-operated Carthago Group, Malibu benefits from the group's innovative strength, premium technology and quality standards — the same DNA that makes Carthago one of Europe's most respected motorhome manufacturers. Production takes place at two sites in Odranci and Ormož, Slovenia, with headquarters in Aulendorf, Upper Swabia.

In recent years, Malibu has grown significantly, winning the Promobil readers' vote for Motorhome of the Year four consecutive times in the campervan category. The brand has established itself as the premium reference point in the European van conversion market.

Four-time Motorhome of the Year — winning the Promobil readers' vote in the campervan category four consecutive times demonstrates exceptional, sustained owner satisfaction. This is not a one-off success but consistent delivery of what van conversion buyers want.

Carthago Group premium DNA — every Malibu benefits from the same engineering, quality control and innovation that makes Carthago motorhomes among Europe's finest. The premium DNA is evident in build quality, material selection and engineering solutions.

Panoramic Charming GT Skyview roof — Malibu's signature innovation transforms the van conversion experience. The vast panoramic glass roof creates a sense of spaciousness that conventional van conversions cannot match, turning the compact interior into a light-filled living space.

Innovative two-room concept — the Generation M layouts with a genuine two-room layout bring semi-integrated motorhome living to the van conversion format, including family-for-four models that redefine what's possible in a panel van.

Premium materials and design — from the exclusive exterior decoration to leather-covered interior roof liners and 16" aluminium wheels, Malibu campervans present a premium image that distinguishes them from mainstream alternatives.

If you want the best-in-class van conversion — four consecutive Motorhome of the Year wins in the campervan category make the case clearly. If you want the finest panel van motorhome available, Malibu is the benchmark.

If the Charming GT Skyview appeals — the panoramic roof experience is genuinely unique in the van conversion market. If natural light and a feeling of spaciousness in a compact vehicle are priorities, no competitor offers anything comparable.

If Carthago quality matters in a compact package — for buyers who admire Carthago motorhomes but want something smaller and more versatile, Malibu delivers the same quality DNA in a van conversion format.

If you want a family van conversion — the Generation M family-for-four layouts offer genuine family accommodation in a panel van, with innovative sleeping and living solutions that make family camping practical.

Premium pricing — Malibu vans start from around €63,000, with Charming GT models and larger T/I ranges reaching well above €100,000. These are premium prices for the van conversion segment.

Limited UK dealer network — while growing, Malibu's UK representation is limited to specialist dealers. Access to servicing and warranty support may require travel.

Predominantly LHD in the UK used market — many used Malibu models available in the UK are continental imports. RHD availability is more limited.

Van conversion space constraints — despite clever design, panel van conversions have inherent space limitations compared to coachbuilt motorhomes. Extended stays may feel compact.

Slovenian production — while designed and quality-controlled from Germany, actual manufacturing is in Slovenia. Some buyers may have a perception preference for vehicles built in Germany proper.

Verify UK specification — confirm RHD, UK gas system and electrical standards. Many used Malibu models are continental LHD imports.

Check the Fiat Ducato base vehicle — standard cam belt, clutch and gearbox inspection. On Mercedes-based T models, check full dealer service history.

Inspect the panoramic roof on Charming GT models — check seals around the entire panoramic roof perimeter, test the blind mechanism and look for any signs of water ingress around the glass.

Check conversion quality throughout — inspect furniture fixings, panel joints, washroom plumbing and electrical connections.

Conduct damp check — focus on around windows, roof fittings and particularly the panoramic roof if fitted.

Test all systems — heating, water, fridge, 12V and 240V circuits, leisure battery condition.

Malibu provides manufacturer warranty through the Carthago Group and its dealer network. The Carthago backing provides reassurance of ongoing support and parts availability.

An independent warranty backed by the RAC is recommended for used Malibu purchases, particularly for imported models or vehicles approaching the end of manufacturer warranty.

OakTree Motorhomes offer up to three years of RAC-backed warranty, providing comprehensive peace of mind on a premium van conversion.

When buying a used Malibu, look for a dealer that offers an independent warranty backed by a provider like the RAC. This means your warranty remains valid even if the dealer ceases trading. OakTree Motorhomes offer up to three years of RAC-backed warranty, covering the average ownership period.