Welcome to the latest variation on the fixed bed campervan theme from Malibu Van
The street dance troupe, Diversity, was the winner of Britain’s Got Talent back in 2009, four years before Malibu Vans made their comeback (having first appeared in 1979). It’s also now the rather random title of this Carthago company’s latest campervan – in a range that doesn’t seem all that diverse, as all models are Fiat-based and have a fixed bed layout.
Malibu describes the Diversity as the ‘all-rounder with XL kitchen comfort and a generous feeling of space.’ Tested here is the 600 DB K version (there’s also a longer 640 LE K with single beds), but it’s not the base spec. What you see on these pages is the Charming GT Skyview version, which the company calls its exclusive line. The key feature is, of course, the panoramic overcab window, but you also get a leather steering wheel, 16in alloy wheels, colour-coded bumpers and upgraded LED ambient lighting as part of the package.
Our test vehicle didn’t stop there, either. With the Family-for-4 pop-up roof, it becomes a four-berth ’van. So, that makes it a Malibu Van Diversity GT Skyview 600 DB K. Phew! And with three more options packs and 20 individual extra-cost items ticked, it’s an £85k campervan, despite the left-hand drive here saving you £2,110. That, however, is the German way of doing things (a basic spec and a long options list), and you could spend a few grand more, or less, depending on what features you can or can’t live without (including having the steering wheel on the ‘proper’ side, of course).
ARTENSE EXPERIENCE
Externally, the key additions are the Artense Grey metallic paint (£980) and the 3.70m awning (£1,250) with full-length LED strip light (£260). While some campervan brands go light on graphics, Malibu adds quite a bold scheme but one that seems to suit the Ducato’s lines and add a sporty touch. The brand’s trademark porthole bedroom windows don’t feature here, but they can be added for £390.
You can’t miss the chromed Malibu branding across the grille and the Diversity has what the company refers to as ‘premium windows.’ These are framed and have a double sealing system but still sit substantially proud of the bodywork. The sliding door is on the offside (whichever side you have the steering wheel) and comes with a wide electric step (but only a buzzer, not automatic retraction).
There’s also a flyscreen for the entrance as part of the Chassis Package (£3,210), which also includes cab blinds, heated/electric mirrors, passenger cab seat h
