AOR updates top-selling Matrix

Queensland's Australian Off Road has released teaser images and details of a significant upgrade of its most popular 16ft 9in full-height expedition trailer.

Priced from $144,900, the latest AOR Matrix Series 5 off-road hybrid caravan offers "expanded living space, a robust 2800kg ATM, an upgraded 150L fridge, and an impressive optional 1000W solar capacity, ensuring unparalleled comfort and independence on your expeditions," according to the 23-year old, Caloundra, Qld based manufacturer.

Among a raft of changes, AOR says it has tweeked the Matrix design to maximise internal space, including relocating the air conditioner to the roof. This has resulted in a new vertical bedhead and more comfortable dinette seating inside, along with increased shower area and storage and a new full-length hanging storage space.

There's also a new extended awning that covers the external kitchen, along with new slimline windows and a triple lock door design with bigger midge proof flyscreen. While the external kitchen now includes the option of a BBQ slide.

AOR has added some modern touches inside like Inicio acrylic benchtops and splashbacks, new stylish tapware, handles and interior lighting, a new colour vinyl flooring and optional Shann faux leather upholstery, along with some new external finish colours and an optional black ARK jockey wheel.

The Matrix Series 5 also comes with a bigger 150L fridge-freezer, and the option of a new custom Airhead composting toilet.

There's also the option to boost off-grid power up to 1000w solar (350w standard), a 3000w inverter (2000w standard), 900Ah lithium batteries (300Ah standard), along with bigger charging systems up to 100amps.

The 16ft 9in Matrix hybrid retains the bushability of its predecessor with its high tensile powdercoated chassis and 1950mm-wide fibreglass body, riding on independent twin trailing arm suspension with a DO-35 coupling. However, AOR says the Series 5 Matrix boasts a lighter drawbar and better weight distribution, improved 12in Dexter disc brakes, and a payload of up to 935kg thanks to a higher 2800kg ATM.

Otherwise, it comes standard with both inside and outside kitchen, a queen bed, internal shower and composting toilet, and other comfort features like a diesel space heater and a 12V fan, along with 280L water storage.

Introduced in 2011, the Matrix was AOR's first attempt at a fully featured, full head-height off-road caravan. It's since released a number of more upmarket full height models including the Aurora and Sinergi.

AOR said on its website it will be releasing more details including photos and a video of the finished production model shortly.

Related: Game-changing Queensland-built mini-caravan arrives
Related: AOR updates Odyssey bush camper
Related: AOR Sinergi 2023 Review
Related: AOR tweaks Quantum hybrid