The Mazda Bongo with Front Elevating Roof Conversion is a cult classic in the world of Japanese campervans. With its compact footprint, comfortable interior, and versatile 2.5L diesel or petrol engine options, it’s earned a strong reputation as one of the most accessible and budget-friendly ways to enjoy van life.
But no Bongo conversion is truly complete without a front elevating pop-top roof — designed specifically to add vital standing height, ventilation, and even additional sleeping capacity. Our professional-grade conversion gives your Bongo a whole new level of comfort and functionality, without compromising its iconic look.
Whether you’re wild camping in Wales or pitching up on the South Coast, this roof makes your Bongo a true all-seasons camper — practical, compact, and capable.
🛠️ Built Specifically for the Mazda Bongo
Our front elevating roof is custom engineered for seamless integration with the Bongo body shell — no universal kits, no compromise.
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✅ Fits Mazda Bongo Friendee & Ford Freda
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✅ Compatible with both SGL3/SGL5 2WD & 4WD models
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✅ Suits 1995–2005 production years
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✅ Ideal for flat-top tin roof Bongos (non-factory high-top)
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✅ Works with petrol and diesel variants
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✅ Compatible with most side kitchen or rear lounge conversions
If you’ve got a standard Bongo shell and want to convert it properly — this is the way to do it.
📦 What’s Included in the Roof Conversion?
At Kinmel Campers, our roof conversions are carried out with meticulous attention to quality and durability.
Every Mazda Bongo front elevating roof installation includes:
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✔️ Front-lifting GRP roof shell
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✔️ Fixed front spoiler for a flush, aerodynamic look
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✔️ UV-resistant marine-grade canvas
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✔️ Gas-assisted struts for effortless lifting
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✔️ Reinforced internal frame for structural strength
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✔️ Stainless steel hinges and fixings
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✔️ Interior LED lighting, flush-fitted in ceiling
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✔️ Neat internal trimming and weather-sealed finish
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✔️ Full leak prevention measures
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✔️ 5-Year manufacturer warranty
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✔️ Optional extras professionally installed
All work is carried out either at Kinmel Campers HQ or by our nationwide network of approved roof installers.
🌟 Benefits of the Mazda Bongo Elevating Roof
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Gain Full Standing Room – Over 2m internal height when open
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Sleep More People – Optional bed boards allow sleeping for 1–2 extra people
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Low-Profile Finish – Retains stealth appearance under 2.05m when closed
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Add Ventilation & Light – Open canvas increases airflow and brightness
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Factory-Quality Fit & Finish – No cheap DIY kits or half-jobs
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Improves Van Value – Elevating roofs significantly raise camper resale prices
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Perfect for UK Conditions – Weather-sealed and built for British climates
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Insurance-Friendly – Registered conversions with full invoice and warranty
🧰 Technical Specifications
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Roof Type | Front Elevating Pop-Top |
| Vehicle Fitment | Mazda Bongo (1995–2005) / Ford Freda |
| Shell Material | High-quality GRP (fibreglass) |
| Canvas | UV-resistant marine canvas |
| Support Frame | Full steel internal strengthening |
| Mechanism | Gas-assisted lifting with stainless hinges |
| Lighting | Flush-mounted ceiling LEDs |
| Height (Closed) | Under 2.05m |
| Height (Open) | Approx. 2.1m interior standing height |
| Bed Platform | Optional (removable) |
| Colour Matching | Optional (see below) |
| Installation Time | 2–3 working days |
| Warranty | 5 Years (parts & labour) |
🧩 Optional Extras
Customise your Bongo pop-top with these upgrade options:
🛏 Removable Bed Boards – £300
Create an extra sleeping area for 1 adult or 2 children — perfect for family trips.
🪟 Front Canvas Window – £150
A clear front-facing window with blackout flap for light, visibility, and privacy.
🌄 Scenic Canvas – £300
Roll-up front canvas panel and integrated bug net — ideal for summer airflow and panoramic views.
🎨 Roof Colour Coding – £675
Have your GRP roof shell colour-matched to your Bongo’s paintwork for a sleek, factory-style finish.
🧵 Suede Lined Roof Interior – £75
Give your roof a soft-touch, premium suede finish inside for improved insulation and aesthetics.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Will this fit a factory high-top Bongo?
No. The factory high-top version cannot be retrofitted with an elevating roof. This conversion is for tin-top models only.
Do you remove the original roof?
Yes — the factory metal roof panel is cut and a reinforced frame is installed for safety, strength, and leak prevention.
Can I sleep in the roof area?
Absolutely — with optional bed boards, it’s perfect for kids or one adult. Without the boards, it’s still excellent for standing space and light.
What about parking height restrictions?
The Bongo with our pop-top installed stays under 2.05m, making it suitable for most UK car parks.
Will this affect my insurance or DVLA classification?
It may improve your insurance valuation, and combined with other features (bed, cooking, storage), it can help you reclassify the van as a camper with the DVLA.
Do you offer mobile installation?
All installations are performed either at our Kinmel Campers HQ in North Wales or by our trusted UK-wide partners. Mobile installs aren’t currently offered due to complexity.
🛠 Installation Options
We make installation easy and professional:
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🚐 Drop Off at Kinmel Campers HQ (North Wales)
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🌍 Use an Approved UK Fitting Partner
Installation Includes:
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Roof removal and steel frame fitment
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All cutting, bonding, sealing, trimming
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Electrical work (LED lighting)
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Optional extras (if selected)
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Full warranty registration
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Post-install walkthrough
🏕️ Why Add a Pop-Top Roof to Your Bongo?
A Bongo without a pop-top is just a van. With one — it’s a true campervan.
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✅ Stand Up Inside
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✅ Sleep More People
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✅ Breathe More Easily
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✅ Pack More Gear
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✅ Improve Your Comfort
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✅ Enhance Your Resale Value
And best of all — it still fits in multi-storey car parks and looks totally stock when closed.
🛒 How to Order
You can’t buy this roof like a parcel online — it’s a professional-grade conversion that we install.
Here’s how to get started:
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Click “Enquire Now” or “Configure Your Roof”
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Fill out the short form with your vehicle details
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Choose your optional extras
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Book your install date
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Drop off your van — we’ll take care of the rest
Simple. Stress-free. Professional.







