Ford Transit Review

The Ford Transit is perhaps one of the most infamous vans on the market, having become so established on British roads for the past 50 years. It’s become a common household name, often being used to describe any white van of a similar shape. Despite the competition, Ford have expanded their Transit range to include compact vans – such as the Transit Courier and Transit Connect – as well as the medium-sized Transit Custom.

Today we’re delving into what makes the classic Ford Transit so iconic. Explore the versatility and performance of the Ford Transit, the ultimate van for business and leisure.

Unmatched Versatility: A Van for Every Need

The Ford Transit stands out as a versatile workhorse, capable of meeting a wide array of needs. Whether you're using it for business deliveries, as a mobile workshop, or for personal leisure activities, the Transit adapts to your requirements seamlessly. With multiple configurations available, including various roof heights, lengths, and powertrains, the Transit can be tailored to your specific demands. You can buy a Transit in a number of configurations, including panel vans, tipper trucks, crew cabs, minicabs, and chassis cabs. With a variety of wheelbase and roof height options, there are around 450 different ways to order your Transit, which is what makes it perfect as an adaptable vehicle.

The Transit also excels in cargo space and payload capacity, making it a favourite among business owners. There are three different load lengths, two roof heights, and three trim levels available, including the Leader, the Trend, the Limited, and the Trail. The customisable interior allows for the installation of shelves, racks, and other storage solutions, ensuring your tools and equipment are always organised and accessible.

Power and Performance: Driving the Ford Transit

Behind the wheel, the Ford Transit offers a driving experience that belies its size, delivering impressive acceleration and robust towing capabilities. All models share the same EcoBlue 2.0 engine, but it’s got a range of power ratings from 104bhp to 182bhp in the Limited and Trail models. Mild-hybrid technology is available on the 128bhp engine variant. The standard gearbox is a six-speed manual, but the rear-wheel drive models can be ordered as a 10-speed automatic.

The advanced powertrain options ensure that whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the highway, the Transit has the power to get the job done. Additionally, the Transit’s responsive handling and stable ride make it surprisingly easy to manoeuvre, even in tight spaces. The available all-wheel drive option further enhances the van's performance, providing added confidence in various driving conditions.

Interior Comfort and Technology: A Modern Workspace

The Ford Transit’s interior is designed to be a comfortable and efficient workspace. The cabin is spacious, with supportive seating and ample headroom, ensuring that drivers and passengers can travel in comfort, even on long journeys. High-quality materials and thoughtful design touches create a pleasant environment that can help reduce fatigue.

In terms of technology, the Transit is equipped with a suite of modern features. The infotainment system includes a user-friendly touchscreen, navigation, and smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Additional options such as Wi-Fi hotspot capability and advanced telematics further enhance productivity and connectivity, making the Transit a true mobile office.

Safety Features: Peace of Mind on the Road

Safety is a top priority in the Ford Transit, and it shows in the extensive array of safety features included. Standard and available safety technologies such as Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane-Keeping Assist, and Automatic Emergency Braking work together to help prevent accidents and protect occupants.

The Transit also includes a suite of driver-assist features designed to make driving easier and safer. Features like a Rear-View Camera, Blind-Spot Monitoring up to 10 metres, and Cross-Traffic Alert provide additional layers of protection, giving drivers peace of mind whether they are on a busy highway or navigating a crowded urban environment.

Ford has fitted one of the most advanced ESC stability control systems ever seen on a van with a variety of add-on features specifically designed for commercial vehicles, such as Side Wind Stabilisation to help with crosswinds, and Curve Control technology that brakes individual wheels to maintain control if the Transit enters a corner too quickly.

Cost and Value: Is the Ford Transit Worth It?

When evaluating the cost and value of the Ford Transit, it’s clear that this van offers a compelling package. While the initial purchase price may be higher than some competitors, the Transit’s durability, versatility, and comprehensive feature set provide excellent long-term value.

Maintenance and operating costs are also competitive, thanks to the Transit’s efficient engines and strong reliability record. For businesses, the potential for increased productivity and reduced downtime can make the Transit a smart investment. Ultimately, the Ford Transit proves to be a worthwhile choice for those seeking a dependable and versatile vehicle that can handle a wide range of tasks.

Are you on the look out for a used Ford Transit? Take a look at Tangelo's current stock and get in touch with our friendly and knowledgeable sales team to book an appointment or a test drive at our Exeter Customer Hub.