Often in the world of motorhomes, size and price bear no relation to each other. A premium-spec campervan, like this Malibu, can cost more than a six-berth coachbuilt. But is smaller actually better? Well, it can be, so is the smallest Van in the whole Malibu range also the best? That’s what we hoped to find out.
We’ve been impressed with Malibu Van models before, of course - most recently with the Diversity 600 DB K in the July 2023 issue. But this Compact 540 DB takes that same fixed transverse rear bed format and squeezes it into well over half-a-metre less bodywork, so is that a compromise too far?
The benefits are obvious. Less length means the baby Malibu is a little lighter and a little less expensive but also, more importantly, more manoeuvrable and easier to park. At just 5.41m long, the mediumwheelbase Fiat Ducato is similar in size to the long versions of smaller panel vans, such as the Ford Transit Custom and Renault Trafic.
On the road, you won’t notice a difference with the shorter van - not until you take a wrong turn and need to do a three-point turn, or you have to squeeze into a parking space that was probably designed for a Morris Minor. The rest of the time it’s the same recipe: ultra-firm ride for great stability and surefooted
