Amazingly, Ford’s Transit Custom has been with us for more than 14 years. During this period, it has become the most popular new ‘car’ (vehicle really) on UK roads, and with good reason. The second generation was launched in late 2022, improving still further on a class leader.
Swift’s elegant campervan conversion also first saw the light of day four years ago. Principally and successfully aimed at young families, Monza’s appeal has also been inter-generational. It is a real MPV (multi-purpose vehicle), which could be an important trait when looking for the best camper van, and not just a ‘people carrier’ – often enthusiastically described as an MPV!
Monza is based on the Tourneo version of the Custom, which is in the discussion for the best van for a camper conversion, and adds a shed-load of accessories and driver-assist systems. Access and egress are easily achieved via the two cab doors, the nearside one of the two sliding side doors, or the one-piece top-hinged tailgate. The latter is equipped with a heated window and wash-wipe.
All Monzas are front-wheel drive and powered by turbodiesel internal combustion engines. The rumour mill frequently suggests a hybrid or solely electrically powered Monza is just around the corner, but so far it hasn’t appeared. Perhaps the Custom’s famous squircle-shaped steering wheel has proved tricky? Just a joke: one soon gets used to the shape.
At launch the Monza’s standard drivetrain consisted of a 2.0-litre 128bhp engine with six-speed manual gearbox. An eight-speed automatic and/or more powerful engines were available as cost options.
For the past couple of years all Monzas have arrived with more powerful engines and automatic transmission as standard. Sadly but predictably, the option for a third pedal and a stick-shift has disappeared.
The conversion favours the traditional campervan layout of a side kitchen and a rock-n-roll seat/bed (see: what is a rock-n-roll bed in a campervan). That (three-seat) rear pew does convert easily into a longitudinal double bed (1.98m x 1.11m/6’6” x 3’8”). Another (slightly shorter-but-wider) double bed folds down from the rear-hinged elevating roof. The canvas of the latter has ‘see-through’ zip-out side panels. Kids (of all ages!) will love it up there in a world of their own.
It is worth emphasising that the Monza is built up to a quality, not down to a price, though the latter is competitive. Quality is especially evident in the previously mentioned fittings, which could be appealing when looking for the best used campervan. The pop-top is made by SCA.
It is renowned for being well-engineered and easy to operate. The rear pew is made by Reimo. It’s not just comfy (no awful trailer caravan benches here) but tested to the highest standards for passenger safety when going down the blacktop. And there’s more: that pew can be moved (and locked) fore and aft to facilitate maximum living area space or optimum rear luggage (‘boot’) space, which is a useful campervan storage option.
The galley consists of a two-burner gas hob, stainless-steel sink with pumped cold water supply from a freshwater tank, plus a drawer-style 12/230V fridge with freezer compartment. The adjacent offside sliding door has an opening window for natural task lighting and ventilation. There is a diesel-fired blown-air space heater for comfortable three-season camping.
Other mod-cons include a hook-up, leisure battery, campervan solar panel, wastewater tank and a portable freestanding flushing loo with dedicated storage. Also present are a useful external gas BBQ point and, if you were wondering “do campervans have a shower?“, it has an external shower too.
Finally, this is not just a brilliant campervan but a luxurious car as well. Why anyone would pay similar money for a vehicle that is ‘just’ a people carrier is beyond me!
What to look out for
Base vehicle
Do not be put off by keyboard warriors’ warning of premature wet belt failure. They are referring to the supposed early failure of the engine’s timing belt.
To explain, this belt runs in oil and is often referred to as an OIB (Oil Immersed Belt). Ford has shortened its replacement interval to six years, regardless of mileage.
If this is adhered to, owners shouldn’t have a problem. The Custom has firm(ish) suspension; walk away from any that wallow on corners.
Conversion
Generally, this is very well-executed, but still check the operation of all habitation systems. Also inspect the security and integrity of the gas cylinder regulator and flexible piping.
Do not buy without raising the roof and checking the canvas sides for mildew, caused by storing it when damp.
What we like about a used Swift Monza
- Magnificent MPV
- Height-bar friendly (mostly)
- Economical and engaging to drive
- Well-known converter
- It’s fun to own and use!
What we dislike about a used Swift Monza
- Currently only two exterior colours available
- No hybrid or E-power variant
Swift Monza essentials
Swift Monza on Ford Transit Custom Tourneo.
- Built: 2022-present in Cottingham, UK. Elevating-roof five-door panel van conversion.
- Overall length: 5.05m (16’7”).
- Overall height with roof down: 2.07m (6’9.5”)
Our pick
Look for examples between the sweet spot of £50,000 and £55,000. The author has found the 130bhp-powered examples to be very spirited to drive, including when towing heavy trailers, and is of the opinion that there’s no need to hang back for a 150/170bhp example.
What to pay for a used Swift Monza
Note the sweet spot mentioned above. Other Monza examples are occasionally available from £45,000. We found a 2023-registered 130bhp automatic example offered for sale at Thompson Leisure for £44,995 with 44,780 miles recorded. A theoretical saving on new RRP of over £30,000.
Alternatives to consider
Auto-Sleeper Air, Wellhouse Leisure Terrier/Misano.
You could also consider a different Tourneo based ‘van too, such as the Panama P12.
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