Malibu vehicles at a glance

Malibu stands for high-quality camper vans and motorhomes „made in Upper Swabia“. As a subsidiary brand of the renowned Carthago Group, Malibu combines premium quality with innovative ideas and practical solutions. The guiding principle „Better since 1979“ sums up the brand attitude in a nutshell: constantly questioning the status quo and consistently improving.

Foundation & company history

The foundation stone was laid on July 1, 1979, when founder Karl-Heinz Schuler Carthago was founded - with the aim of making motorhomes better. From 1985, the company specialized in the conversion of VW buses, particularly successfully with the „Malibu Hit“.

Important milestones:

• 1991: Introduction of floor plan variants with choice of wheelbase and first sanitary room.
• 2013: Re-introduction of the Malibu brand as a modern camper van line. Simultaneous opening of Carthago City in Aulendorf.
• 2015: Expansion to include integrated and semi-integrated motorhomes - awarded by AutoBild Reisemobil.
• 2018: Introduction of the Malibu Van Charming GT with panoramic roof - new standards in the feeling of space.
• 2021: Launch of the Malibu Generation M with a new look, innovative two-room concept and family-for-4 models - honored with the European Innovation Award.
• 2022-2024: Multiple awards in the promobil readers„ poll, including first place several times for the Malibu Van in the “camper vans with bathroom over €60,000" category.

Specialization & brand philosophy

Malibu specializes in the development and production of premium camper vans and motorhomes that combine comfort, functionality and stylish design. The model range extends from compact vans to semi-integrated and integrated motorhomes - optionally on Fiat or Mercedes-Benz chassis.

A particular highlight is the innovative rear extension of the Malibu Genius, which enables a compact vehicle length of 6.41 meters and thus offers the ideal compromise between manoeuvrability and generous interior space.

Malibu's philosophy is based on the motto „Better since 1979“, coined by company founder Karl-Heinz Schuler. This aspiration to constantly improve what already exists and to never be satisfied with the status quo has always characterized the development, design and technical implementation of all vehicles. Year after year, extensive know-how, a great deal of development time and the highest quality standards flow into every single model.

Malibu's product range is aimed at a broad spectrum of target groups:

• Beginners & families: The compact vans and semi-integrated motorhomes offer maximum flexibility, clever storage space solutions and family-friendly layouts - ideal for those new to camping or traveling with children.
• Comfort lovers: The integrated models impress with a spacious living feeling, high-quality materials, luxurious comfort and sophisticated details for sophisticated requirements.
• Adventure seekers & vanlife enthusiasts: With robust vehicles like the Malibu Genius 4×4 the brand appeals to all those who love freedom and independence - even off the beaten track.

The combination of innovative technologies, first-class workmanship, high suitability for everyday use and a modern, appealing design makes Malibu one of the leading brands in the premium segment - for all those who see traveling in their own vehicle as a way of life and do not want to compromise on comfort, safety and quality.

Price range

The price range for Malibu brand vehicles varies depending on the model and equipment, but is generally in the higher price segment of the market for motorhomes and camper vans. The entry-level prices for compact vans such as the Malibu Van start at around 63,000 euros, while the larger and more luxuriously equipped models such as the Malibu T or Malibu I can cost from 88,000 to 100,000 euros and more, depending on the individual configurations and optional extras. Malibu thus offers a wide range of vehicles suitable for both entry-level and more demanding customers who are prepared to invest in high-quality workmanship, comfort and innovative technologies.

Awareness & market position

In recent years, Malibu has established itself as a major brand in the premium motorhome market. Particularly in Germany, the brand's home market, Malibu is well known among campers and motorhome enthusiasts and enjoys an excellent reputation. The company has built up a loyal customer base through continuous innovation, high quality and well thought-out design concepts. 

International markets are becoming increasingly important for the brand and Malibu is active in many European countries as well as overseas. The export share has grown steadily, supported by expansion into new markets and the adaptation of models to different needs and regulations. 

Malibu is positioned primarily in the upmarket segment of the market, with a clear focus on comfort and quality. The target groups range from newcomers looking for a well-equipped yet compact motorhome to luxury travelers and adventurers who demand the highest standards from their vehicle. The design plays just as important a role as the technical innovations and comfort that Malibu offers. Malibu has established itself as a brand that stands for reliable, high-quality vehicles that meet even the highest demands.

Successful models & series

Malibu has a large number of successful models and model series that have made the brand famous in the world of motorhomes. 

• Malibu Van: Compact Fiat-based camper vans, ideal for newcomers and couples. Models such as the Charming GT skyview impress with their well thought-out room layout, panoramic roof dome and a cozy interior feeling. Particularly popular due to its high suitability for everyday use and comfortable equipment - also in the family-for-4 with hybrid pop-up roof.
  – Van Compact
  – Van Comfort
  – Van Diversity 
• Malibu T: Semi-integrated motorhomes on a Fiat or Mercedes chassis that combine modern design with practical functionality. Models such as the T 490 LE offer flexible layouts, comfortable single beds and spacious living areas - ideal for couples and small families.
• Malibu I: Fully integrated premium models with a high level of living comfort and elegant features. Models such as the I 441 LE combine a luxurious feeling of space with compact external dimensions. Perfect for comfort lovers looking for a stylish and fully-fledged home on wheels.
• Malibu Van 4×4: Robust camper van version with all-wheel drive - designed for travelers who also want to travel off-road. Combines compact dimensions with off-road capability and proven Malibu quality.

Each of these models offers individual features tailored to different needs and desires, allowing Malibu to appeal to a broad target group interested in both entry-level and luxury travel.

Conclusion: Who is Malibu suitable for?

Malibu is the ideal brand for motorhome enthusiasts who value high quality, comfortable equipment and innovative technology. The brand's vehicles appeal to different target groups, from newcomers to luxury travelers. Families in particular, who are looking for a functional yet comfortable mobile home, benefit from the well thought-out space utilization concepts and the high flexibility of the models. For adventurers and camping enthusiasts who travel a lot, the Malibu models offer just the right level of comfort and mobility. The compact vans and motorhomes are ideal for both short trips and longer journeys. Even for those who want to experience the luxury and comfort of a 5-star hotel in a motorhome, the higher-quality models such as the Malibu I-range is exactly what you are looking for. So if you are looking for a reliable, functional and stylish motorhome that will accompany you everywhere and meet the highest standards of comfort and design, then Malibu is an excellent choice. The vehicles offer the right solution for beginners as well as experienced campers and luxury travelers.