Ford introduces new Transit Custom
Wed, 18 Apr 2012
Ford has premiered the new Transit Custom ahead of its on-sale introduction later in the year. The new design offers class-leading loadspace, a car like cabin and a host of useful technology to improve safety and make life easier.
The new Transit shares its ‘kinetic design’ styling with Ford passenger cars – it’s easiest to see the similarities when you compare the new Transit Custom with the C-MAX MPV. Both short- and long-wheelbase models will be offered from launch, the former of which has an overall length of 4.97 metres and the latter 5.34 metres.
The loadspace is designed to accommodate 6.0-cubic metres with a full bulkhead fitted, meaning it can carry three Euro pallets loaded to 1.0-metre high. The space between the wheel arches is best in class, allowing for 8x4ft board to be loaded flat to the floor.
Further touches to improve versatility include an integrated roof rack system, which folds flat when not in use to reduce drag and improve fuel economy. A range of payload options will be offered, ranging from 600kg to 1,400kg.
The cabin is well appointed, with car like dashboard layout and a selection of useful technologies available, including voice activated infotainment to allow radio/ phone control hands free. There’s also a reversing camera, lane keep assist and emergency assist, which automatically calls emergency services when there’s an accident.
Ownership costs should be reasonable, with 30,000 mile service intervals and fuel saving technology to maximise efficiency from the 2.2-litre Duratorq diesel engine, which has an economy figure of up to 42.8mpg. 100PS, 125PS and 155PS power outputs will be offered, and all will come with stop/start technology as standard.
The new Transit Custom will go on sale later in the year, although prices and specifications are yet to be announced. More variants, including models with higher payloads, will be announced later in the year.
