10 years of Malibu motorhomes – a success story

Malibu Motorhomes is celebrating a special anniversary this year: Ten years of innovation, quality and passion for mobile travelling. During this time, motorhomes have undergone constant development, both externally and internally. What started out as an idea developed into a brand in the premium segment. Three generations of vehicles characterise this success story, each with a unique exterior and interior that build on one another.

Malibu Reisemobil teilintegriert und vollintegriert auf einer Wiese

The story began in 2015. The goal was clear: to develop a vehicle that is modern and suitable for everyday use, yet offers maximum comfort and remains technically reliable, all at a fair price-performance ratio. For the Carthago Group, this means opening up a completely new market segment. Customers should have the right to quality, safety and a generous sense of space without having to compromise.

This idea gave rise to the first generation of Malibu motorhomes, which came onto the market in 2016. It was launched with three layouts, 410 DB, 440 QB and 460 LE, as fully integrated or semi-integrated motorhomes. Even then, Malibu was already setting new standards: The stepless raised floor with frost-free insulation was a special feature that still exists today. In addition, there was a class-largest drop-down bed measuring 195 x 160 centimetres, a pressurised water pump system and all-round overhead lockers in the rear area. The furniture construction was taken directly from the Liner class and is still one of the most important features of the interior today.

The second generation brought numerous refinements. The focus was on more storage space and a revised exterior. The exterior design, including the decor, was adapted, but a new rear design was also created. In addition to the exterior, some technical details have also been optimised. The driver’s side was given additional access to the double floor, and the fresh and waste water tanks were raised. Another milestone was the introduction of the 430 LE floor plan, which quickly became a bestseller. The next model years 2019 and 2020 were characterised by model updates. The range of floor plans was significantly expanded to appeal to new customer groups looking for maximum comfort. Models such as the 441 LE, 490 LE and 500 QB were added. In addition, some vehicles were equipped with larger LED flat screens and the elegant wooden sliding door found its way into the interior.

A major step forward was taken in 2021 with the introduction of the third generation – the Malibu “New Generation”. Innovation, design and comfort have been raised to a whole new level. The new generation has secured its place in the upper mainstream segment and thus attacked the premium class.

The centrepiece of this new edition was the new bodywork from the premium class. A fully bonded load-bearing beam and the wood-free body structure offer numerous advantages. The revised rear design impresses with a flowing transition and ensures an elegant, modern look. The special highlight was the new front mask with integrated daytime running lights, which gave the vehicle an unmistakable character. There have also been some changes to the interior: The completely new furniture architecture in Modernline design and the concave overhead lockers created a generous feeling of space and made it even more convenient to use and operate.

The next major milestone followed in 2025 with the introduction of the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter incl. AL-KO low-frame chassis. The aim was to appeal to a larger target group with higher premium standards. With this launch, Malibu motorhomes have now definitely arrived in the premium segment.

And what happens next? A new generation will be introduced in model year 2026, taking Malibu motorhomes to a whole new level. To get an insight into the 2026 model year, please visit our Malibu motorhome overview page.

Malibu Motorhomes represents ten years of milestones, innovations and passion for mobile travelling. From the first model year to the premium class, Malibu has continuously evolved without losing its character. To make sure you don’t miss any developments and innovations, sign up now for the Malibu newsletter and stay one step ahead.

Ten years of Malibu - that's ten years of lived passion. A brand that was born from an idea, grew out of conviction and with each generation became more and more what it is today: a home on wheels, built for people who want to feel freedom. Malibu is not just technology and design - Malibu is a promise. A promise of honest quality, genuine proximity to the customer and the courage to always go further. And this journey has only just begun.

Matthias Frorath
Key Account Manager Malibu Reisemobile

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