Toyota Proace Matino Campervan review

The phrase “Keep it simple, stupid” is thought to have been first used by American spy planes engineer Kelly Johnson – but we reckon it's equally applicable to this Toyota Proace Matino campervan.

You see, for decades, buying a camper has been a daunting task for those new to the world of lifestyle vans because the whole process of converting a regular van then bringing it to market usually involves three companies – the van manufacturer, the converter and the dealer. So what happens if a problem arises? Who do you turn to? 

The least powerful engine comes with a manual gearbox, while the range-topper gets an eight-speed automatic. If you like to go camping on challenging terrain, note that the Matino isn't available with four-wheel drive – you'll need one of the rival campervans if you're dead set on having that.

The conversion is carried out by specialists Wellhouse and is available through selected Toyota dealers with a full manufacturer’s warranty. Just one ‘trim’ is available, but that's no bad thing because it includes everything you need for a good few days away, including a double bed and a kitchen.

Over the next few pages of this review, we'll take you through the Proace Matino’s capabilities. We'll tell you what the performance is like as you drive to your favoured camping spot, what it’s like once you’ve set it up, what it’ll cost to run and more.

And don't forget, when you next buy a new vehicle of any make and model, our free What Car? New Car Buying service has big savings on hundreds of new cars. You won't see the Matino there but you will find lots of the best new campervan deals.