As if to prove it values its commercial vehicle buyers as much as its other customers, Ford has once again given its Transit cargo van a handful of revisions conceived to make this big hauler a bit easier to live with.
Buyers who want a flashier look and more luxury with their utility, there's now a forged alloy wheel available for dual rear wheel models, and a charcoal-coloured leather seat option.
Also new is a heavy-duty cargo floor covering, along with heavy-duty rear scuff plates.
On medium and high-roof models, the backup camera is now mounted higher for a better view rearward, and power-folding short-arm side mirrors with integrated turn signals are an option. Also optional is Bluetooth functionality for the AM/FM stereo, and a pushdown manual parking brake.
Powertrain choices are carried over from last year, and start with a standard 3.7L V6 that makes 275 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. Options include a 3.5L EcoBoost V6 good for 310 hp and 400 lb-ft, and a 3.2L turbodiesel rated for 185 hp and 350 lb-ft. All three engines come with a six-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive.
Transit's list of standard convenience features is short and sweet: Power windows, locks and mirrors and air conditioning are all included, but there's not a lot else to write home about. The seats are two-way adjustable, the floor is covered in vinyl and the fabric headliner stops just aft of the seats.
More important, says Ford, is the Transit's availability with three roof heights and a variety of wheelbase and body lengths to accommodate the wide-ranging needs of its customers.
While the passenger model (covered in a separate buyer's guide entry) can be had in two trims, the cargo version comes in a single model offered with a few options.
There's a trailer tow package, and an interior upgrade group that includes niceties like cruise control and CD-player sound system with Ford's Sync 3 infotainment setup. Also available are side windows in place of the standard all-metal panels. Ten-way power-adjustable seats can be optioned in, and upholstered in cloth or leather.
The Transit's commercial vehicle status means Natural Resources Canada doesn't require fuel consumption estimates; expect the diesel to be the economy leader, while the EcoBoost motor might be a touch thriftier when hauling heavy cargo and trailers.
This vehicle has not yet been reviewed
