Ford takes Transit to the next stage

Front-, rear- and all-wheel drive Transits no longer use different capacity engines, but are now available with the same fuel-efficient 2.2-litre Euro 5 global TDCi engines. To differentiate Euro 4 and Euro 5 variants, the latter get a new silver-detailed front grille, daytime running lights and the power output rating on the nearside rear door is highlighted in blue rather than red. Bar these changes, Transit’s exterior and cab design remain the same.

Based on the same powerplants that will be under the bonnet of the all-new Ranger when it goes on sale later this year, Transit’s new 2.2-litre engine line-up offers a choice of four outputs. The lead-in unit is now 100hp and top power — for rear-wheel drive models only — is 155hp. Slotted in between are the 125hp and 140hp TCDis. Peak torque ranges from 310Nm for the 100hp, up to 385Nm for the 155hp. The current 200hp five-cylinder 3.2TDCi has been dropped from the line-up, unfortunately.

Ford is claiming much improved fuel consumption and lower emissions levels for the new engines, compared to their predecessors.

All Transits now benefit from a six-speed manual transmission and service intervals have increased from one year/15,000 miles to 20,000 miles. The standard anti-corrosion warranty has risen from eight to 12 years.

The front-wheel drive Transit ECOnetic line-up has been extended; as well as a 100hp short-wheelbase/low roof — a medium roof can be specified — 280 it now also includes a 125hp long-wheelbase/medium roof 350 for the first time. When fitted with the optional 62mph speed limiter the former officially returns 43.5mpg for the combined cycle (173g/km) while the latter manages 39.8mpg (189g/km).

As an alternative there’s also an Eco Pack which can be specified across the range. It comprises an Auto-Stop-Start system combined with a 70mph speed limiter. They engage automatically on start-up, but can be disengaged manually if required using a dash-mounted button.

Series production of the Euro 5 Transit begins on 26 September and the new models will reach UK dealerships by the end of October. Basic list prices (excl VAT) start at £18,195 for a 260S, a rise of 4.5 per cent compared to its Euro 4 predecessor.

We will be publishing a full report from the European press launch in the near future, but one thing we can say is that anyone used to living with a current generation Transit will not believe how much quieter the new models are to drive. Ford engineers have done a remarkable job in reducing noise, vibration and harshness, especially from under the bonnet.

Click here to download a PDF demonstrating the potential fuel-savings of the new models over their predecessors.