Full review

The only thing that’s standard about this rising roof camper is the classic rear bench seat, furniture all down one side design that was made famous decades ago by Volkswagen.

What makes it different is in the base vehicle: Ford’s Transit Custom offers a superb, car-like drive and it’s good value, especially compared to the relatively expensive VW T6.

Wellhouse Leisure’s earlier Tranny conversion won our Campervan of the Year accolade back in 2014. The M-Sport, the latest incarnation of that same Terrier, is very much a head-turner, as long as you want your campervan sporty. Externally, there’s massive 18-inch alloys, graphics and twin exhausts. Plenty of show, but also plenty of go as the range-topping 153bhp motor is fitted, although lower profile tyres mean a lumpier ride. In the cab, the leather-wrapped steering wheel and white-faced dials look the part. But there’s practicality too, with useful storage spaces, air-con and cruise control.

The Technoform furniture gives off a look that’s modern and elegant. The leather-trimmed rear bench offers three belted travel places, lounging, dining and a double bed. The bench can slide forwards to increase the rear load space.

Unlike with some ‘vans, both cab seats swivel and this Transit’s larger-than-a-VW internal volume creates a feeling of spaciousness. There’s probably only room for three to dine, though, thanks to the compact nature of the two, single-leg-mounted tables. The bed, too, might be a bit compact for some.

Beyond its lovely looks, the furniture unit provides good kitchen spec and storage too. The sink/hob combo is standard, as is the gas-saving 12V compressor fridge. There’s one deep drawer and reasonable cupboard space, plus a pair of rather diddy lockers up top. There’s a decent drawer beneath the bench too.

Washroom facilities are, of course, limited to a little portable loo, while aft more cupboards share space with a metal-lined gas locker that takes one 7kg cylinder. Other life support systems include 40-litre fresh and waste water tanks, diesel-fired space heating and a good-sized leisure battery.

Opt for the roof bed and you can buy an extra that’s unique in the campervan world: the ‘starry night’ fitted to the underside. Tiny LEDs twinkle and their seemingly random pattern represents a portion of the night sky.

This is an abridged version of the full review appearing in the May 2016 iissue of What Motorhome. Buy it now.