One of the 2017-season’s most exciting new motorhome launches was Malibu’s. Now well-established since its 2013 launch, the Carthago sub-brand’s line-up grows for 2017. Hitherto, only Malibu van conversions have been available in the UK, but this is going to change, with low-profiles set to make their way across the Channel. They’ll be joined by a brand new A-class range, comprising three models, plus two additions to the panel van conversion range. And we’re delighted that these are coming to the UK, as it’s an impressive line-up – read on!

All motorhomes in the 2017 Malibu range are based on the recently-revealed Fiat Ducato, powered by the Italian brand’s Euro 6-compliant engines.

New Malibu van conversions

As we said, two new panel van conversions have been added to the Malibu portfolio for this season: the Van 540 and the Van 600 LE.

The Malibu Van 540 is, as its name suggests, 5.4m-long. It is a two-berth with a rear transverse double bed, that’ll be as much at home on city streets as it is on winding country lanes. Its layout may not break new ground, but the fixtures and fittings are of a very high standard indeed.

Joining the 540 is the 6m-long Van 600 LE. This model has front-to-back rear beds that use the extra length of the base vehicle to offer more legroom than a transverse bed.

Rounding out the new items for Malibu’s panel van conversions is a ‘Charming’ style collection (available on two models), while the 600 and 620 models can be specified in the ‘Life’ trim, which adds an electrically-operated drop-down bed and increased storage space by moving some of the ’van’s services.

Low-profiles and all-new A-classes

This is where the biggest changes are in Malibu’s 2017 line-up, the existing low-profile ’vans now to be offered to be British buyers, while an all-new A-class range has been introduced.

All models in these segments share the same floorplans, so their kitchens, washrooms and lounges are virtually identical. Where they differ is in the provision of the rear sleeping arrangements, and the possibility to have a drop-down bed above the lounges in the A-class motorhomes.

The T or I 410 features a transverse rear bed and a multifunction washroom, while the T or I 460 opts for twin single beds, again with a multifunction washroom. The T or I 440 has a pull-out island bed, accompanied by a washroom with the luxury of a separate shower compartment.