Ford unveils the new face of 2012 Transit

Ford has announced officially that it will be rolling-out the next generation Transit during 2012, starting with a Torneo Custom Concept at the Geneva Salon in early March. And it represents a startling shift in direction to the design of the UK’s favourite panel van.

The world debut of the van versions will be at the UK’s CV Show in April, preceded by a week with the unveiling of the new Transit minibus at the Amsterdam CV Show. Ford of Europe is keeping tight reigns on this one.

Only two pictures have been released so far — and they are of the high-specification Geneva ‘Concept‘ — but first impressions are that it’s a pumped-up S-Max. It appears that there’s a definite cross-fertilisation between Ford’s passenger cars and light commercials happening. Next in line following Transit, no doubt, will be its smaller relative the Connect; pencil-in 2013 for that one.

Commenting on the Geneva Concept Paul Campbell, chief designer, Ford of Europe.said: “We set out to create a design with clean, futuristic lines and with a real sense of occasion. With its sportier stance, bold rising shoulder line and flush glazing, the Tourneo Custom Concept brings something fresh and exciting to this class of people-mover. By applying the latest Kinetic Design principles, the end-product has a completely new style and drama.”

The Concept is based on a new Ford global platform which has been engineered to deliver car-like dynamics; agile, responsive handling, enhanced ride comfort and reduced noise-levels. Proper Transit will be based on the same platform, so it bodes well. We can’t imagine that Ford has forgotten about sticking a full payload in the back.

“Customers in the personal use market are demanding much higher levels of technology, performance and handling,” said Barry Gale, chief engineer, Ford of Europe. “This concept shows that we are taking those demands very seriously and that customers can expect a rewarding and car-like driving experience.”

VansA2Z can’t wait to get its hands on the light commercial version; the updated, current Euro 5 Transit launched late last year was such a huge step forwards (see Brief Test) that this one should be mind-blowing. One thing is for sure, Ford has the right drivetrains already in place for its next generation of panel vans; the current 2.2TDCi’s are stunning on so many levels.

The final words go to Stephen Odell, chairman and CEO, Ford of Europe: “2012 is a tremendously significant year for Ford as we begin the roll-out of a completely new range of commercial vehicles. Our market-leading commercials have established a tremendous reputation for value and durability, and our new range is destined to raise this to a new level.”