Toyota Proace Camper (2014 – 2016) Review

Toyota Proace Camper (2014 – 2016) At A Glance

4/5

+Clever use of space, well kitted-out and lively engines, sleeps four adults in genuine comfort, compact enough to use day-to-day.

-More expensive than other badged versions, a lot of road and engine noise.

Unlike Volkswagen, Toyota isn’t a brand readily associated with the camper van market. However this might be changing thanks to the intriguing Proace camper conversion – a joint venture by Toyota and G&P Campervan, launched in September 2013.

G&P Campervan is the first official converter to turn this vehicle into four-berth accommodation, complete with gas hob, fridge-freezer, microwave oven, TV and on-board water supply.

Based on a standard Toyota Proace with the longer L2 wheelbase and standard H1 roof height, when the electronically operated pop-up canvas roof isn’t elevated, most people assume it is a standard panel van.

Powered by 2.0-litre diesel with 128PS and 320NM of torque, it has decent performance with good pulling power.

Despite relatively compact dimensions, the Proace Camper has a comfortable rock-and-roll double bed for two, with the capability to sleep two more thanks to a roof bed. With cooking facilities and plenty of storage units, it blends camping versatility with everyday practicality.

The Proace Camper conversion costs around £12,000 (plus VAT), which when you consider a 2014 Toyota Proace with around 25,000 miles cost less than £10,000 to buy, provides a cheap entry into campervan motoring.

Just the one trim level is available, so all Proace Campers feature air-conditioning, Bluetooth, and electric windows. Outside, there are sliding doors on both sides of the vehicle, 16-inch alloy wheels, fog lamps, daytime running lights and heated electric door mirrors.

Toyota has also commissioned a bespoke PRO40 version of the Proace Camper as a Le Mans special. The motorsport-inspired camper received a new look for 2015, re-wrapped in a livery to celebrate Toyota Gazoo Racing’s champion status in the World Endurance Championship. It certainly turns a lot of heads.