Mazda Bongo Friendee
The cult-classic JDM camper with a smooth V6 and a factory pop-top.
- Power
- 160 bhp
- Est. value
- $5k–$12k
About the Mazda Bongo Friendee
The Mazda Bongo Friendee is a Japanese domestic market icon, celebrated for its clever packaging and factory-fitted 'Auto Free Top' (AFT) elevating roof. While most examples feature the 2.5-litre turbodiesel, the 2.5-litre V6 petrol variant offers a significantly smoother and quieter driving experience, albeit with higher fuel consumption. Its cab-over design provides a surprisingly spacious interior within a compact footprint, making it a favourite for camper conversions in the UK and beyond. The SG generation is particularly noted for its electric blinds and versatile seating that folds into a double bed, cementing its status as a practical cult classic.
Mazda Bongo Friendee specs
The Mazda Bongo Friendee produces 160 bhp (119 kW) and 211 Nm (156 lb-ft) of torque.
| Make | Mazda |
|---|---|
| Model | Bongo Friendee |
| Trim | 2.5 V6 |
| Years | 1995–2005 |
| Type | Van |
| Body style | Minivan |
| Country | Japan |
| Engine | 2.5-litre V6 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,494 cc (2.5 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 160 bhp (119 kW) at 6,000 rpm |
| Torque | 211 Nm (156 lb-ft) |
| Transmission | 4-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,750 kg (3,858 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 91 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Mazda Bongo Friendee worth?
A typical Mazda Bongo Friendee is estimated to be worth $5,000 – $12,000 (about £3,700 – £8,900).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Mazda Bongo Friendee rarity in CarSpot
The Mazda Bongo Friendee is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 0 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Mazda Bongo Friendee fun facts
- The Bongo name is so synonymous with one-box vans in Japan that the word 'bongo' is often used as a generic term for the entire vehicle class.
- The factory-fitted 'Auto Free Top' was a powered elevating roof that could sleep two additional people, effectively turning the van into a four-berth camper from the factory.
- The 2.5-litre V6 engine used in the Bongo Friendee is the J5-D, a member of the Mazda J engine family also found in the Mazda 929.