Fiat-based campervans from Malibu, scheduled for 2026 release, aim to deliver an expansive interior ambiance.
Malibu Unveils 2026 Relax Campervan Range: Maximising Space, Comfort, and Storage
Malibu has announced its new campervan range for the 2026 season, the Malibu Relax. Based on the new Fiat Series 10 chassis, this range focuses on maximising the feeling of space, comfort, and storage.
The Malibu Relax campervan is available in three spec levels: Active, Ambition, and Exclusive. The Malibu Relax stands out for its optimised use of space and storage, modern minimalist design, integration of cab/living areas, and premium comfort features.
Innovative Features
The Malibu Relax campervan boasts a spacious interior design, with the cab integrated into the living area in a coupé-style, similar to their previous Mercedes-based Genius model. This integration enhances the feeling of space inside.
The interior features the "Pureline" furniture design, with clean lines and handle-free concave overhead locker doors with ambient lighting. Storage is optimised, with extra drawers next to wardrobes and easily accessible storage under beds over 2 meters long. Steps and removable bed sections allow flexible access to storage spaces, including XXL rear garage capacity.
The kitchen unit is shortened for a more open feel and includes a 70-litre two-way opening fridge for convenience. Additional kitchen storage is made available with two large pull-out drawers and a storage compartment on the driver’s side.
The washroom uses a plastic tambour door serving as both the main washroom and shower door, saving space. A magnetically fastened curtain protects the basin and mirror. High-quality cold foam mattresses on ventilated slatted frames, microfibre-lined roof and walls with climate-regulating membranes, and bed headboards for insulation and comfort enhance overnight comfort.
Exterior and Styling
The exterior features a new stylish Malibu radiator grille, modern graphics inspired by the Genius model, and well-branded “Relax” markings emphasising its premium positioning.
Comparison with Other Top Campervans
The Eriba Car 600, based on the VW Crafter, offers a different chassis with stylish, high-quality interiors, a 90-litre pull-out fridge, and a compact but fully functional washroom. It sleeps up to 3 with flexible bed arrangements and has a strong emphasis on elegant design, including felt walls and yacht-style flooring.
The Malibu 2025 Fiat Ducato Range, while featuring fixed beds with good payload and seating flexibility, lacked some of the new spatial innovations now incorporated in the 2026 Relax model.
Mercedes Sprinter-based models are known for premium drivetrain options, flat-floor cabins, and high-tech features like MBUX infotainment and all-wheel drive. These models tend to be more expensive but offer superior terrain adaptability and premium fittings.
Summary
Malibu's 2026 Relax campervans stand out for their optimised use of space and storage, modern minimalist design, integration of cab/living areas, and premium comfort features. While other top market campervans like the Eriba Car 600 offer quality interiors on VW chassis and Sprinter-based models provide advanced drivetrains and technology, Malibu strikes a balance by focusing on spacious living, smart storage, and comfort at a competitive premium level, especially notable in the Fiat Series 10 platform upgrades.
The Malibu Relax campervan has a width of 2.05m and an MTPLM of 3500kg, making it accessible for anyone to drive. The washroom in the Malibu Relax campervan has a plastic tambour door serving as both the main washroom door and the shower door. The Malibu Relax campervan is based on a 6.36m-long Ducato, one of the best vans for converting to a camper.
Only the Edition + A-class and low-profile 490 RB-LE models retain last season's "Bellagio" style. Malibu's A-class motorhomes can now be built on either a flat Fiat Ducato chassis or a front-wheel drive Mercedes Sprinter with Al-Ko's special light low frame.
The Malibu Relax campervan has a 70-litre fridge located at the end of the kitchen unit. All A-class motorhomes now have a double floor. The Truma Combi 4 heater has been brought forward under the seats in the lounge of the Malibu Relax campervan. Low-profile models are also available on either chassis and in either weight, except for the T 490 RB-LE.
Two new layouts have been introduced: the T 470 RB-LE "K" and the T 480 RB-QB "K". The new campervan range from Malibu, called Malibu Relax, is based on a Fiat platform.
- Reviews of the Malibu Relax campervan, part of the 2026 range, are expected to highlight its space-maximizing design, innovative features, and premium comfort.
- Apart from the Malibu Relax, other top campervans like the Eriba Car 600, based on the VW Crafter, offer quality interiors but lack the space-optimizing innovations found in the Malibu.
- In terms of style and technology, the Malibu Relax campervan competes with Mercedes Sprinter-based models, but its focus on spacious living and smart storage sets it apart at a competitive premium level.
- General-news outlets covering the campervan lifestyle might feature advice on choosing between the Malibu Relax and its competitors, considering factors like arrangement of space, storage, and price.
- Sports enthusiasts considering a campervan for their outdoor adventures could find the Malibu Relax an attractive option, equipped with features enhancing overnight comfort and providing ample storage for sports equipment.
