Mazda Bongo
Used Car Review

Overview

Looking for a versatile vehicle that can handle everything from family trips to business deliveries? The Mazda Bongo might be exactly what you need. This unique Japanese import combines the practicality of a van with the comfort features of a people carrier, creating something truly distinctive in the UK market. It’s the vehicle for those who need maximum space and flexibility without the bulk of a traditional commercial van.

From the moment you see it, the Bongo’s cabover design sets it apart from conventional vans and MPVs. Its compact footprint yet spacious interior makes it incredibly practical for urban driving while offering impressive cargo capacity. The sliding doors and high seating position give you excellent visibility and easy access. Inside, you’ll find a surprisingly comfortable cabin that feels more like a family car than a commercial vehicle, with air conditioning as standard and clever storage solutions throughout.

Driving the Bongo is refreshingly straightforward. The compact dimensions make it easy to park and maneuver in tight spaces, while the elevated driving position gives you a commanding view of the road. It handles predictably and rides comfortably, making both short trips and longer journeys pleasant experiences. While it comes with the considerations of any imported vehicle, you’re getting exceptional versatility and value that few other vehicles can match at this price point.

What's the Mazda Bongo Like to Drive?

The Mazda Bongo is designed for practicality rather than sporty performance, with a range of petrol and diesel engines that prioritize reliability and fuel efficiency. Most UK imports feature either a 2.5-liter petrol V6 or a 2.5-liter turbo diesel engine, both offering adequate power for daily driving and cargo hauling. The petrol engine delivers around 140 horsepower and feels smooth for everyday use, while the diesel provides better fuel economy and torque for heavier loads. Acceleration is steady rather than exciting, with 0-60 mph taking around 12-14 seconds depending on the engine and load.

Where the Bongo excels is in its real world usability. The steering is light and responsive at parking speeds, making tight maneuvers surprisingly easy despite its commercial vehicle origins. The suspension is tuned for comfort and load carrying, providing a composed ride that soaks up road imperfections well. Unlike some commercial vehicles, the Bongo doesn’t feel unsettled when unladen, maintaining good stability and predictable handling characteristics. It’s a vehicle that builds confidence quickly and makes every journey feel effortless.

Inside the Mazda Bongo: Comfort & Features

Step inside the Bongo and you’ll be impressed by how car like the interior feels. The dashboard layout is straightforward and user friendly, with clearly marked controls and a sensible arrangement of switches and dials. The seats are comfortable and supportive, designed for long distance comfort rather than sporty bolstering. Most models feature fabric upholstery that’s hard wearing and easy to clean, perfect for family or commercial use. The driving position is excellent, with good adjustment range and clear visibility in all directions thanks to the large windows and high seating position.

The cabin is notably quiet for a vehicle of this type, with good insulation from road and engine noise. Air conditioning comes as standard on all UK imports, making summer driving comfortable even when fully loaded. Storage options are abundant, with door pockets, cup holders, and overhead compartments providing space for everyday items. The rear seats can be folded or completely removed to maximize cargo space, while the sliding doors make access incredibly easy even in tight parking spaces. It’s a genuinely versatile interior that adapts to whatever you need.

The Mazda Bongo offers something genuinely different in today’s automotive landscape, combining exceptional practicality with surprising refinement. Its unique cabover design maximizes interior space while keeping external dimensions manageable, making it incredibly versatile for both family and commercial use. The interior quality and comfort levels are impressive for what is essentially a commercial vehicle platform, and the driving experience is far more car like than you might expect. The main considerations are the import vehicle aspects, including parts sourcing and finding knowledgeable servicing. Fuel economy isn’t spectacular compared to modern alternatives, but the Bongo’s versatility often outweighs this concern for buyers who need maximum space and flexibility. It’s not for everyone, but if you need a vehicle that can genuinely do everything from family holidays to house moves, the Bongo is hard to beat. The combination of affordability, space, and character makes it an easy recommendation for the right buyer.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

Mazda Bongo Running Costs

As a specialist import vehicle, the Bongo has unique running cost considerations that potential buyers should understand. Fuel economy varies significantly depending on the engine and how you use the vehicle, with the diesel achieving around 28 mpg in mixed driving while the petrol manages around 22-24 mpg. Insurance costs are generally reasonable due to the vehicle’s modest performance and good security features, though you may need to shop around for insurers familiar with Japanese imports. Parts availability has improved significantly over the years, with several UK specialists now stocking common service items.

The main consideration is finding a garage familiar with Japanese vehicles and import regulations. Regular servicing costs are comparable to other vehicles of similar size, but specialist knowledge is important for maintaining reliability. The Bongo’s reputation for durability means major mechanical issues are relatively rare if properly maintained. When considering car finance options, remember that some lenders may have restrictions on imported vehicles, though specialist finance companies understand these unique vehicles well. Overall running costs are reasonable given the Bongo’s exceptional versatility and load carrying ability.

Is the Mazda Bongo Practical for Everyday Use?

The Bongo’s practicality is simply outstanding, offering genuine eight seat capability or massive cargo space when the rear seats are removed or folded. With all seats in place, you can comfortably transport a large family or group, while removing the rear seats creates up to 3,200 litres of load space. The sliding side doors and rear tailgate make loading and unloading incredibly easy, while the low floor height helps when handling heavy items. The interior is cleverly designed with multiple storage compartments and tie down points for securing cargo.

This versatility makes the Bongo perfect for a wide range of users, from large families to small businesses needing a capable workhorse. Weekend adventurers particularly appreciate the ability to sleep four people comfortably with the rear seats folded flat. Unlike many used Mazda cars, the Bongo occupies a unique niche that combines the best aspects of an MPV and a van. Its compact external dimensions belie the spacious interior, making it surprisingly easy to park despite its generous capacity.

The Mazda Bongo stands out as one of the most versatile vehicles you can buy, offering a unique combination of eight seat passenger capacity and van like cargo space in one practical package. Its Japanese engineering heritage shows in the build quality and reliability, while the thoughtful interior design maximizes every inch of available space. The cabover configuration might look unusual, but it delivers exceptional practicality that few conventional vehicles can match.

You choose the Bongo because you need maximum flexibility without compromise. Its ability to transform from family transport to cargo hauler makes it perfect for people with varied needs. While fuel economy isn’t class leading and specialist servicing may be required, the Bongo’s exceptional versatility and affordable running costs make it excellent value. If you’re looking for a vehicle that can handle everything life throws at you, the Bongo should definitely be on your shortlist, especially with affordable financing options making ownership more accessible.