Projected Review Volume Increase for Malibu Caravans
Malibu Caravans enters the new year 2026 with a rather mixed record and clear trends emerging from customer experiences.
Currently, Malibu is sitting at an average rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars, based on 26 reviews on ProductReview.com.au – that’s a long way off from the top of the pack where the top Australian caravan brands tend to sit around the 4.2 to 4.7 star mark.
Feedback from owners is all over the place – some will rave about Malibu for offering great value, strong towing performance and simply getting the layout right, while others were left fuming by issues with leaks, rust, dodgy welding, rotten panels and dreadful after-sales service – to say they’re not exactly chuffed is an understatement.
One pretty publicised case back in 2024- 2025, involving an $85,000 Malibu caravan with a whole heap of faults really cranked up the heat.
However, there are some models that do stand out – like the Malibu California – which are getting some great technical reviews, praising the solidness of the chassis and plumbing which is just what families need for those big trips.
You also get a pretty good read on how owners are going in the various user groups, where a bunch of owners are trumpeting the usability and comfort of their caravans.
Now, take it all in the context of the broader market. In 2024, we saw 15.2 million caravan and camping trips taking place in Australia, raking in $14 billion.
The national trailer market put in a pretty solid performance in 2024, coming in at $732 million, and its forecast to get up to $873.6 million by 2028 – that’s a 4.5% annual growth rate.
And, on a global scale, we’re seeing the caravanning industry going gangbusters, going from $27.37 billion in 2024 to $75.9 billion by 2032, at a rate of 13.6% compound annual growth.
With more and more people buying and getting engaged online, we can expect to see Malibu getting 10-20% more review activity in 2026 as buyers size up the quality, the reliability and the service.
Family Adventure Stability and Comfort
Long Trip Handling
The Malibu Family Adventure is one of the most popular Malibu models for long distance stability and handling.
Owners who have done 5,000–9,000 km trips said the van stays in a straight line, even in side winds and uneven roads.
This matters because touring families do thousands of km each year.
The Family Adventure sells between AUD 70,000 and 80,000, with recent listings showing models at around AUD 73,990.
A van that handles well on the road reduces stress, improves safety and lowers fatigue on long driving days.
Key stability contributors are:
- Balanced chassis design
- Sensible weight distribution
- Mild off road capability for rougher regional roads
These all add up to a more controlled towing experience on extended touring.
Interior Strength Over Time
A big plus of the Family Adventure is its interior durability on long trips.
Families who have been on the road for weeks or months said the kitchen, bunk beds and ensuite areas still worked after constant use.
Examples from owners are:
- Pantries and cupboards stayed aligned after corrugated road travel
- Bunk ladders and frames stayed firm after daily use
- Plumbing and electrical systems worked across large temperature ranges
These real world examples show a lower failure rate than several other caravans in the same price bracket.
Service Response Experience
Owners reported small issues such as:
- Loose screws
- Minor fittings needed tightening
- A microwave out of position
But families also said Malibu’s service team fixed the same day in many cases.
This is important because long distance travellers often have tight schedules and limited windows to get things fixed.
In over 70% of positive reviews, fast fixes and good service contributed to overall satisfaction.
Touring Suitability
The Family Adventure is best suited for:
- Long highway travel
- Multi state touring
- Long stay family holidays
Its standout feature is long trip stability, backed up by real user mileage and continuous use.
The Opulence Custom Build Experience
Taking Control of Your Design
The Malibu Opulence Custom Build really stands out because you get to have so much say over what your caravan looks and feels like inside. That means having a hand in choosing the layout, finishes, colours, cabinetry style, lighting design and all the extras you want.
The Opulence Custom Build usually sits in the $90,000 to $120,000 price bracket, but prices can creep up as high as $115,000 or so depending on just how much you want to add in terms of upgrades.
This kind of personalisation is a big hit with buyers who don’t want to just buy a ‘van off the shelf and instead want one that’s been custom-built to fit their lifestyle to a T.
Something Malibu does really well is help owners feel like they’re part of the build process from start to finish. Before production even begins, you get to see full layout previews, material boards and all the modification options laid out so you can get a real sense of how your caravan is going to come together.
And talking to owners, it’s clear this really matters to them – they don’t just feel like they’re buying a pre-made model, they’re actually building a caravan that’s been tailored to their exact needs.
Some of the really cool personalisation elements include
- Being able to choose from heaps of different benchtop finishes
- Lighting configurations that are a real step up from the standard stuff
- Custom cabinetry layouts – you can have exactly what you need
- Upgrading to really nice fabric or leather seating
All of these options add up to a caravan interior that feels truly unique and custom-built, which in turn means you’ll get heaps more out of your van in terms of both how it looks and feels.
Elevated Visual Presentation
One thing that really sets the Opulence apart is the level of visual detail that goes into the build. When owners finally see their custom build for the first time, they often describe it as ‘mind-blowing’.
And it’s no wonder really, when you consider the amount of thought that goes into combining lighting, materials and soft furnishings to create a really special space.
Not surprisingly, caravan owners say that how a van feels inside is a massive priority when they’re choosing one that they plan on living out of for a while – and it’s estimated that 58% of buyers put interior feel right at the top of their list.
Malibu’s Opulence range ticks all those boxes for buyers who are after a high-end interior experience.
And just to give you a feel for how this all comes together, some of the really impressive features include
- Ambient LED lighting that adds a whole new level to the interior feel\
- Gloss or matte finish cupboards that look amazing with a custom splashback\
- Flooring options that make a real difference to the perceived size of your van\
- Really tasteful colour palettes that give you that ‘at home’ feel without breaking the bank
Each of these elements contributes to an interior experience that’s way ahead of what you’d expect from a van in the mid-price custom segment.
Real Buyers – Real Impressions
It’s really no surprise that owners often say that their Opulence exceeded their expectations – Malibu’s team has a real knack for turning design ideas into finished, really impressive craftsmanship.
And it’s easy to see how – just take a look at some of the real-life reviews from owners who’ve gone through the build process. They include things like:
- Total overhauls of the dinette area
- Custom storage solutions that really get to the heart of what you need\
- Lighting that’s carefully positioned for maximum effect
All of these tiny details add up to a really special caravan that feels personal, premium and all yours.
For Luxury Buyers The Opulence Custom Build
The Opulence Custom Build is perfect for buyers who really care about:
- Getting the interior of their van looking and feeling just right
- A high-end interior experience that feels truly luxurious
- Having living spaces that are custom-built to their unique needs and preferences
And at the end of the day, it’s the Opulence’s custom interior craftsmanship that really sets it apart, with a raft of owner testimonials and hard data to back up just how happy people are with their Opulence vans.
Wildtracker Family Storage Advantage
Lots of Storage
The Malibu Wildtracker Family has earned its reputation for having one of the biggest interiors in the Malibu range.
Families say the Wildtracker can carry a lot of gear without sacrificing walking space, seating comfort or daily usability.
The Malibu Wildtracker Family is generally priced between AUD 80,000 to 95,000 and recent off-road equipped models have been listed for around AUD 86,000.
This is important for Australian families who travel with:
- Sports equipment
- Extra bedding
- Outdoor furniture
- Cooking appliances
- Kids toys and school gear
In a survey of caravan-owning families, 72% listed storage capacity as the top “must-have feature”, above kitchen size and even ensuite design.
The Wildtracker has oversized overhead cupboards, deep under-bed spaces, multi-level pantry compartments and wide external lockers.
Space Efficient Bunk Design
The Wildtracker Family is designed for families with 2-3 kids, with bunk layouts that deliver sleeping space without overwhelming the living area.
This matters because many family caravans struggle to keep the floor clear once the bunks are in.
Owners say:
- Bunks that stay firm after daily use
- Smart use of vertical space to keep walkways open
- Ladders that don’t block the dining area
These features make it liveable for long stays and high-wear family use.
Mixed Road Capability
While the Wildtracker isn’t a heavy-duty off-road van like the Raider series, it’s good on sealed roads and mild off-road tracks.
This means it’s perfect for mixed-condition travel, which is how most Australian families actually travel.
Examples include:
- Beach holiday parks
- Rural gravel-road access points
- Forest campsites
- Regional highway loops
Around 63% of owner reviews say the Wildtracker feels safe and predictable when transitioning between these environments.
Family Travel Summary
The Wildtracker Family is for buyers who want:
- Lots of gear capacity
- Family-oriented layout
- Mixed-condition travel capability
Its key feature is lots of storage, with real-world family practicality and proven day-to-day durability.
California 20’6 Lightweight Touring Efficiency
Reduced Tow Strain
The Malibu California 20’6 stands out because of its lightweight construction which reduces towing strain compared to heavier off-road models.
This weight advantage makes it suitable for mid-range 4WDs and even some larger SUVs, so it’s for everyday Australian travellers who want predictable towing without needing a high capacity tow vehicle.
A reduction in caravan weight can save 8%–14% fuel, according to touring groups that track real world towing efficiency on multi-state trips.
The Malibu California 20 ‘6 costs between AUD 55,000 and 70,000, with recent listings showing used models around AUD 55,000 for the 2021 build.
Owners say the California feels steady on highways and easier to maneuver through holiday parks, service stations and suburban streets.
Examples:
- Smoother reversing due to less sway
- Better hill climbs with less engine strain
- More confidence when overtaking on highways
These handling benefits are for older travellers or new caravan owners who want a forgiving towing experience.
Seasonal Road Performance
The California 20’6 is designed for on-road and light regional touring, which is where most caravan buyers travel.
According to national tourism data, over 78% of caravanners use sealed roads and established caravan parks rather than off-grid tracks.
For these users the California’s lightweight build and practical layout provides:
- Comfortable sleeping arrangements
- Functional kitchen positioning
- Adequate storage for short and medium length trips
- A user friendly living space for couples or small families
It’s great for coastal holidays, interstate highway loops and seasonal family park stays.
Structural Integrity Concerns
Despite its towing advantages several owners have raised concerns about structural inconsistencies, particularly around wall sealing, shower installation and water ingress.
Reported issues:
- Shower wall bubbling
- Water leaks causing interior swelling
- Roof lumps and poor seal alignment
Examples from reviews show vans that were repaired and returned with new issues or where interior sections showed signs of moisture damage after wet weather travel.
These issues show while the California is great to tow, buyers must do a thorough pre-delivery inspection especially around wet zones and roof joins.
Touring Convenience Summary
The California 20’6 is for:
- Highway touring
- Light weight
- Park stays
It’s all about towability, but with interior usability if you inspect properly at handover.
Raider 19’8” XXL Endurance
Reinforced Chassis Strength
The Malibu Raider 19’8” XXL Extreme is built for serious off-road endurance, one of the strongest in the Malibu range.
The key feature is the 6″ G&S chassis with 4″ riser and 3.5-tonne Control Rider independent suspension.
This gives more ground clearance, better articulation and durability on corrugated roads.
Off-roaders report that vans with reinforced chassis and independent suspension reduce structural stress by 27% in heavy corrugation testing, improving long term reliability.
The Raider fits into this performance category.
Examples of real world capability include:
- Towing on steep access tracks
- Riverbed and fire-trail approaches
- Long corrugated stretches in WA and NT
- Remote bush camps requiring more clearance
These scenarios show the Raider is suitable for Australian touring.
Remote Camping Ready
The Raider has dual 95 L water tanks, heavy duty underbody protection and well shielded plumbing – features designed for remote camping.
These features reduce vulnerability from stone strikes, waterline damage and dust intrusion.
Remote traveller surveys show 63% of off-grid travellers prioritise large water capacity and the Raider has that covered.
The interior is also suitable for extended remote stays with:
- Full ensuite for independent washing
- Large fridge/freezer units
- Robust storage for bulk supplies
- Off-road capable tyres and spare mounting points
The combination of interior comfort and external strength supports multi day and multi week off-grid touring.
Value Position
The Raider 19’8” XXL Extreme is great value. The expert review price of AUD $68,990 is below several off-road vans that are $85,000-$120,000 for similar spec.
The value comes from:
- Heavy duty suspension included as standard
- Full off-grid package in base price
- Durable chassis only seen in premium models
For buyers who want off-road capability without luxury brand price the Raider stands out.
Off Road Travel
The Raider 19’8” XXL Extreme is for:
- Long distance rugged touring
- High clearance remote travel
- Off-grid stays require durabilityReinforced chassis strength.
Razor 18’6 Compact Off-Road Caravan Steals the Show
Manoeuvring Around With Ease
The Malibu Razor 18’6 Off-Road is built with off-road enthusiasts in mind who want to tackle the great outdoors without the weight of a larger caravan.
This little unit really stands out with its super short body design – it makes all the difference when you’re trying to squeeze through tight spots on those rugged dirt tracks.
By being shorter, the Razor can shrink your turning circle by a whopping 18% – and that’s not just theory, that’s actual off-road towing data we’re talking about here. This means you can handle tighter corners, forest tracks and even those tricky campsite driveways with a lot more confidence.
You can pick up a Malibu Razor 18’6 Off-Road for anywhere between AUD 65,000 to AUD 75,000 – and to give you an idea of value, we saw a 2023 Razor go for AUD 67,990.
Quite a few owners have actually moved from camper trailers and say the Razor is a breeze to place, reverse and position on uneven terrain.
Some of the things they rave about include:
- Negotiating those narrow coastal-access roads
- Reversing into tight national-park campgrounds
- Navigating through dense, wooded off-road sites
That extra agility gives the Razor a real edge over those larger caravans that just can’t compete.
Getting It Done in Mid Level Terrain
Despite being so compact, the Razor packs all the right off-road goodies, including:
- A reinforced chassis
- Some neat suspension (either independent or semi, depending on your build)
- Higher ground clearance
- Tough external cladding
All of which means it’s perfect for tackling those mild to moderate off-road environments. And let’s face it, that’s the way most people explore the outback.
Talking of which, did you know that in national touring studies, 61% of off-road caravan owners say they stick to forest tracks, fire trails or sandy access routes, rather than going for the extreme rock or desert stuff.
The Razor fits right into this mid-level off-road market – it’s got capability without the bulk of a heavy-duty van.
A Ton of Space Inside Despite the Size
Despite its compact size, the Razor manages to pack a pretty functional interior feel.
What owners love is the way Malibu has laid out their interiors to squeeze every last bit of space out of the compact body. Think clever cabinetry, streamlined kitchen layouts and comfy sleeping areas.
Some of the things that really make your money worth it inside the Razor include:
- Those smart vertical storage solutions that make the most of every inch
- A dinette that’s perfectly proportioned
- Easy walkways, even with a shorter body
All of which makes it perfect for couples and solo travellers who want a comfortable ride without breaking the bank.
Razor 18’6 Off-Road is a Winner
What makes the Malibu Razor 18’6 Off-Road so great? Well, here are the highlights:
- For those who need to squeeze into tight spots
- For regional off-road travel
- For campsite flexibility
But at the end of the day, its compact manoeuvrability is the real star of the show – backed up by serious towing data and owners raving about it.
Escape 18’6 Mid Size Touring Comfort
A. A House on Wheels – Getting the Balance Right
The Malibu Escape 18’6 is a practical, mid-sized caravan that gives you a well-rounded interior without unnecessary fuss.
You can expect to pay between AUD 55,000 and 65,000 for this beauty, and a good example is a 2021 model that was listed at AUD 52,500 recently.
But what really sets this caravan apart is its layout. Everything – the kitchen, ensuite, dining, and bedroom – is cleverly placed so that you can just flow from one area to the next without any hassle.
This balanced layout matters, because as any caravanner will tell you, you can spend a lot of time inside the van, especially on long trips or when the weather’s not great. And that’s why a well-designed interior can really make all the difference.
Looking at touring studies, 68% of couples prefer a mid-sized caravan like this one – 18 to 19 feet long – because it’s just easier to live in and tow.
Some of the key layout features that help with this include:
- A kitchen that doesn’t get in the way, even when you’re cooking
- A dinette that’s comfy and easy to see from
- An ensuite that’s as roomy as possible
- A walkway that’s wide enough so you don’t feel like you’re stuck
These design decisions help to make everyday life in the van a whole lot more comfortable – especially for couples who are going on long-term trips.
B. Staying on Course
The Escape 18’6 isn’t a heavy-duty off-road monster, but its moderate weight and aerodynamic shape make it a breeze to tow on the highway.
And the owners can attest to that – even in windy or uneven road conditions the van stays stable as a rock.
In fact, caravan towing groups have found that mid-sized vans like this one reduce sway events by 22% compared to those 20 to 22 footers – mainly because they’re shorter and have better weight balance.
Some real-world examples of this include:
- Cruising along the Queensland coastal highway with the wind in your hair
- Driving through the Victorian alps with the van handling itself smoothly
- Taking on those rough regional gravel roads without the van rattling and shaking
These stories just go to show that the Escape is perfect for multi-state touring without breaking a sweat.
C. Living the Dream
The owners love it because despite its small footprint, the Escape feels like a big, airy caravan inside.
And that’s all down to Malibu’s thoughtful design – the way they’ve used cabinetry height, bench placement and seating geometry to create a sense of space.
Some of the benefits of this include:
- Kitchen benches that are cleverly designed
- A bedroom area that’s tucked away from the main traffic zones
- Storage that’s practical and doesn’t get cluttered
- An ensuite that’s just as roomy as you need it to be
All of these features come together to make a caravan that feels bigger than it really is.
Touring Couple Bottom Line
The Escape 18’6 is perfect for:
- Couples who want a caravan that’s just easy to use
- Anyone who loves road touring and wants a hassle-free experience
- Long-term seasonal travellers who want a caravan that can keep up
And at the end of the day, it’s all about that balanced layout and the real-world feedback from owners that confirms it’s a winner.
Hurricane 22’6 Off-Road A Home Away from Home
One Big Space to Call Your Own
The Malibu Hurricane 22’6 Off-Road – that’s a caravan that’s all about spreading out and making yourself at home, no matter how long you’re going to be away.
Prices for these babies typically sit between AUD 75,000 and 90,000, but you can currently pick one up for around AUD 79,900, judging by online listings.
And it’s no wonder they’re in such high demand – with its spacious interior design, it’s got a real residential feel to it. We’re talking multi-week, even multi-month trips, and the comfort level inside this caravan is just as good as it would be in your own home.
When it comes to interior volume, long-stay travellers are dead set on having plenty of space to move around – and research backs it up, showing that 54% of full-time or long-stay caravanners are more interested in having interior space than they are in having loads of storage or off-road upgrades.
The Hurricane delivers on this front with oversized lounge seating, extended benchtops, and a nice wide walkway to boot.
Some of the key long-stay comfort advantages of this design include:
- A nice big dining area that’s perfect for eating, working or just lounging around
- Loads of extra bench space to whip up a feed in the kitchen
- A bigger sleeping area with plenty of airflow
- Even more cabinetry and overhead storage for all your extended stay supplies
All these design choices are about giving you the space and freedom to live like you normally would, even when you’re out in the bush for weeks on end.
Getting You to the Good Stuff
Now, while interior space is the Hurricane’s calling card, it’s also got some serious off-road chops – think reinforced chassis, upgraded suspension, and some seriously tough exterior materials.
And what this means is that it can handle those dodgy access roads to those hard-to-reach long-stay sites – you know, the ones that are only accessible down a rough track or over a dodgy river crossing.
Survey says that 61% of long-term caravanners want a van that can get to these types of places without being a full-on extreme off-roader – and the Hurricane is right on the money.
The Best Use for an Over-Sized Van
Lots of caravanners have said that the wide lounge, generous kitchen layout, and open space on board make it perfect for all sorts of activities – like cooking up a big feed, working from home, hosting mates and family for a BBQ, or just staying inside on a rainy day.
And let’s be honest, when you’re driving a mid-sized caravan for extended periods of time, it can start to feel a bit cramped. Not so with the Hurricane.
The Long and Short of Long Stay Comfort
So if you’re after a caravan that’s perfect for:
- Extended touring adventures
- Semi-permanent stays in the one spot
- Or just getting away from it all in style
The Hurricane 22’6 Off-Road is the way to go. Its standout feature is still going to be that massive interior space, but it’s backed up by a solid layout and a willingness to go off the beaten track whenever you need it to.
Ranger 19’6 – A Mid Tier Off-Road Trail Blazer
The Middle Child
The Malibu Ranger 19’6 Off-Road sits right in the middle of Malibu’s off-road lineup. You won’t find it too light on features like the more basic models, but it’s not a behemoth either. This one’s for people who want durability without the weight of the heavy hitters.
So what makes it tick? Well, it’s got a reinforced chassis, upgraded suspension, and some nifty protective cladding designed to withstand all sorts of off-road punishment – think gravel, dust and the occasional corrugated road.
Now, on to the price – this thing usually goes for between AUD 70,000 and $85,000, although some dealers might try to flog you a version for around AUD 82,900.
Off-road caravans are a real thing in Australia, and it turns out the mid-tier models like the Ranger are the most popular by far.
According to industry figures, 59% of off-road buyers go for mid-strength builds because they offer a sweet spot – durability without breaking the bank, and still good for long road trips without draining your wallet.
The owners of the Ranger have a few nice things to say about it, like how it handles predictable on unsealed roads and keeps the interior in good nick even when you’re pushing it a bit off-road.
This makes it perfect for people who like to head into the bush but don’t want to go anywhere too crazy – think inland parks, riverside tracks, and forest campgrounds.
Remote Stays Made Easy
One of the things that really sets the Ranger apart is its ability to keep up with remote camping, and that’s a real drawcard for people who love to get off the grid.
Some of the key features that make this possible include:
- Lots of water storage for multiple day trips
- Solar charging to keep your essentials running
- Battery systems that can handle lighting, pumps and all that low-draw stuff
- Easy access points for your utilities
If you look at the data, 65% of regional campers are using vans with mid-level solar and battery systems – the Ranger is right in that sweet spot.
Some examples of how this plays out in real life include:
- Multi-day trips near Murray River
- Bush camps in national forests
- Coastal free camping spots
The Ranger’s systems are designed to handle all that and more.
Touring Made Easy
The interior of the Ranger is also a big drawcard – it’s all about straightforward livability, with a functional kitchen, comfy seating and a well-proportioned bedroom.
All this adds up to make long touring trips a breeze, even if you’re on the road for weeks on end.
Some of the things that owners like about the interior include:
- Cabinetry that makes sense
- Easy access storage
- Durable fittings that can take the rough stuff
This makes a real difference to your daily life on tour – it’s all about reducing stress and keeping things simple.
Practical Adventure Summary
The Ranger 19’6 Off-Road is perfect for:
- Regional touring
- Multi-day off-grid adventures
- People who want durability without the bulk
It’s all about remote-camping strength, backed up by real-world feedback and usage stats.
Thunder 17’6 Pop-Top Height Flexibility
Low Height Storage Fit
The Malibu Thunder 17’6 Pop-Top is designed for travellers who need a caravan that can fit in garages, carports and suburban areas with height restrictions.
Its strength is its low storage height thanks to the pop-top roof.
This matters because many standard caravans are over 3.0 metres high and can’t fit in most residential structures.
Pop-tops reduce height by around 300-450mm, so suburban owners can avoid paid storage facilities which can cost $1,200-$2,000 per year in major Australian cities.
Real examples from owners include:
- Fitting into a standard 2.7m garage
- Parking under low carports instead of using outdoor covers
- Reducing council restrictions on roadside caravan parking
This storage flexibility is the main reason buyers choose the Thunder over full height models.
Light Tow Fuel Savings
The Thunder 17’6 also has a lighter tow weight making it easier to tow with mid-size 4WDs and reduces fuel consumption.
Pop-tops reduce aerodynamic drag due to their lower profile so you get 4-9% better fuel efficiency on long highway routes.
This model is perfect for:
- Older travellers wanting an easier towing experience
- Weekenders wanting to save fuel
- Families upgrading from camper trailers
Examples of towing advantages include smoother highway overtakes, less wind resistance during coastal drives and better vehicle control on undulating inland routes.
Expanded Interior Height
Once expanded at camp the Thunder has full interior height so you have comfortable airflow and standing room.
Owners love that despite its compact towing height the pop-top creates an interior like a bigger van.
Interior benefits mentioned by travellers include:
- Comfortable movement space
- Adequate kitchen bench height
- Efficient use of seating and storage
- Good natural ventilation due to the pop-top’s vented sides
These practical features make liveability better for weekend getaways and short touring loops.
Compact Touring Summary
The Thunder 17’6 Pop-Top is for:
- Suburban owners with limited storage height
- Fuel conscious travellers
- Weekend and seasonal tourers
Its main feature is low height storage flexibility combined with light weight towing ease, backed up by real world data and owner experiences.
