Genius Performance 4x4

The Genius Performance 4x4 continues the distinctive hybrid concept of the Genius, while adding a permanent all-wheel drive system based on Mercedes-Benz GLE technology. The "Torque on Demand" system distributes drive power variably between the front and rear axles, automatically adapting to driving conditions – transforming the travel van into an everyday-capable off-road and winter vehicle measuring 6.40 m in length, drivable on a standard Category B licence at the base weight of the Sprinter variant. The GRP sandwich rear extension is retained, creating – just as in the base Genius – space for individual longitudinal beds of over 2 m and a rear storage compartment of 1,400 litres. Above this, Malibu installs the factory-upgraded self-sufficiency package: two lithium-ion batteries with a combined capacity of 300 Ah, additional chargers, a 70 A charge controller, and a 12 V → 230 V inverter with 1,800 W continuous output. With 190 PS from the 2.0 l four-cylinder diesel engine (419 CDI) and the 9G-Tronic automatic transmission, the Performance 4x4 is also the most powerful model in the Malibu van line. The permissible gross vehicle weight increases from the 3.5 t base to 4.1 t, which requires a Category C1 licence, but in return offers considerable payload reserves for expedition setups.