Middlesex Matrix rising roof

Downsizing can be sensible, especially if you can find a campervan to do everything from exploring narrow lanes to bowling in comfort down motorways, and for carrying extra passengers. Your dream machine will probably utilise VW’s short-wheelbase T5 Transporter. Though high-tops have considerable advantages with extra storage and insulation, most come with an elevating (or rising) roof, either side-hinged or rises at front or rear. We test one of these, the Matrix, from Middlesex Motorcaravans.

Middlesex Matrix campervan 

Twenty-five years ago, Graham and Hilary Law built a camper for themselves. A local garage liked it and commissioned some more, which sold well. Then, in 1999, the Laws set up MML, producing campervans.

The Matrix is one of five layouts and has the central aisle layout, with either a Thetford bench toilet along the rear offside, or (as tested) a Porta Potti in the bottom rear cupboard. This one was a front-hinged rising-roof SWB model. First registered in September 2010, and with 8,500 miles recorded, it wasn’t new, but under our critical inspection, seemed pristine and its price of £34,500 was attractive. An all-new version (depending on specification) would cost around £38,000, so the Matrix is competitively priced.

DRIVING
MML’s specifications vary according to the buyer’s requirements – and also what secondhand base vehicles are available – but all facelifted T5s have 2-litre engines. This one had 102bhp output, coupled with a five-speed manual gearbox, the performance being perfectly satisfactory for most folk in most circumstances, though if finances permitted, a 140bhp six-speeder would be better.

Transporters vary in weight-carrying capacity – this one was a T28 (2,800kg gross vehicle weight), but MML claims an excellent payload of 625kg for the Matrix, taking into account driver, fuel, water and gas, so you shouldn’t need the heftier 3,000kg version.

LOUNGE
To raise the roof, release the restraining straps, then it lifts easily on gas struts. To lower, drop the (optional) roof bed, then haul gently on the straps and pull in the side fabric so it doesn’t become trapped.

To form the Matrix lounge, swivel the cab seats to face the two rear RIB travel seats. The four-seater lounge is comfortable (though the RIB seat cushions will be too deep for some), and is reasonably well illuminated by fluorescent strips above each window. The two tables store under the offside window.

KITCHEN
The kitchen unit, to the nearside rear, houses a Smev combined hob and sink with split glass lid – usefully providing extra work surface. The two-burner, auto-ignition hob allows drainage into the sink and the surrounding work surface area is adequate.
Kitchen storage is plentiful, with four large unshelved cupboards.

BEDS
Twin single beds are easily made by combining swivelled cab seats with the flattened RIB rear seats, plus two extra cushioned panels which lie between the rear of these seats and the storage/kitchen units. Though the panels are unstable they, combined with MML’s choice of cab-seat swivel, allow excellent bed lengths of 1.98m (6ft 6in) and 1.87m (6ft 1½in). A double bed, formed by sliding the singles together, is available (optionally). However, the fridge vent’s location immediately above the offside sleeper’s head, where the compressor fridge’s humming might disturb.

A second bed ‘upstairs’ is optional. The bed base hinges down from the rising roof, and access is by hopping up from the kitchen unit. This bed is best for one as a 127kg (20 stone) weight limit applies.

Matrix buyers will be dealing with an experienced family firm of enthusiastic motorhomers; good quality materials and fittings are used, construction is solid, and customers’ input is welcomed. The Matrix’s bed length is a boon for the tall and the layout enables long loads to be carried. Toilet facilities are better than in many VWs – and keen pricing is a major attraction.