The Ford Transit Custom van hit the market in 2012 but it has been consistently updated to keep competitive in its class, which has proved very successful. In 2016, a more efficient EcoBlue diesel was added to the range, then we saw a mid-life facelift for the 2018 model.
This update added a nose similar to the look of the Ford Fiesta to give the van a look of solidity and an upmarket air, but the main focus was on the interior upgrades. The addition of Ford’s multimedia systems included clearer graphics, a revised layout, and an upgraded version of Ford’s Sync3 voice control system.
This vehicle divided Ford’s van range into Transit (two-tonne) and Transit Custom (one-tonne) variants, which helped the Transit name become an umbrella term used by Ford to cover a variety of models.
The Specifics
The Transit van has a few different options to choose from, with a choice of four of Ford’s 2.0-litre diesel engines. Pick an incredibly powerful 182bhp engine, great for pulling power - alongside the 167bhp, 128bhp, and 104bhp and models.
Buyers also have the choice of four trim options, Base, Trend, Limited, and Sport, with an additional range of add-on options as well. The Transit is equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox as standard, but you can choose a six-speed “SelectShift” automatic gear with the two higher-powered engine choices.
All post-2016 models boast front-wheel drive, powered by the 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel, saving fuel at a rate of 15% over the older 2.2 TDCi without any performance loss.
The Performance and Drive
The Custom variant is the best-handling mid-sized van out there, with pleasantly weighted steering that provides good feedback without ever becoming tiring.
No matter which power output you choose, plenty of torque is available across a wide range of revs, making this a great van to drive not only around town but on motorways too. The 182bhp engine is the recommended version for the speediest performance.
All the range meets the latest Euro-6d emission regulations, with a mild-hybrid version of the 128bhp unit which helps save fuel by providing the engine with small amounts of electrical assistance.
We believe that everything about the drive of the Transit custom is spot on, striking a great balance between body control and comfort, with the standard six-speed manual gearbox providing nice sharp action. We’d recommend you choose the manual over the six-speed “SelectShift” automatic gearbox as the latter has a delay on gear shifting, sometimes getting caught out.
The Interior
The latest Transit Custom has seen the removal of the busy, sloping dashboard of previous models, replaced with a simpler, upright design. With the Limited and Sport models receiving a tablet-like 8.0in touchscreen system as standard, a nice attempt of adding premium car equipment into a working van.
Making use of Ford’s third-generation Sync system, a simplified version of multi-menued Sync 2, and a welcomed upgrade from the smaller 4.3in screen on previous Trend models or the standard radio found on Base vans. The Sync 3 supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to use your smartphone applications on the touchscreen.
The combination of a steering wheel that allows you to adjust for rake and reach, alongside a highly adjustable seat, it will be easy for drivers of all shapes and sizes to find a comfortable position in the Ford Transit Custom.
The van also comes equipped with a range of useful storage compartments across the dash and the doors. The door bins feature split-level compartments to store smaller items discreetly.
The Boot and Passenger Space
The short-wheelbase standard roof models boast a capacity of 6 cubic meters, with the long-wheelbase high room models having a spacious boot of 8.3 cubic meters. The transit has one of the largest cubic volumes of any medium-sized vans, competing with rivals from the class above.
The load-carrying capacity is amongst the best in the class, with a gross vehicle weight range of 2.6 tonnes to 2.4 tonnes. Depending on the body length and height, the maximum payload is up to 1459kg.
The van’s large potential operating weight is also significantly more than its rivals. Carrying 230kg more than the Volkswagen Transporter and 180kg more than the Mercedes Vito. This is due to the competitors only having availability up to 3.2 tonnes, whereas the Transit goes up to 3.2 tonnes
The maximum load length for the short-wheelbase and the long-wheelbase versions are up to 2554mm and 2921mmm respectively. The standard height vans are 1406mm tall, with an additional 370mm in the high roof models. Load width is 1175mm, 1350mm between the wheel arches.
The rear van doors open to 180def but can be locked at 90deg if you use a special hinge. A single side-loading door with an opening of just over 1m is standard on all vans, but there is an option to add a second side door on the driver’s side as well.
We would recommend purchasing the protective lining available for the load areas to protect the van panels, but the plywood protection is rudimentary and competitors do have more sophisticated load lining solutions.
If you’re planning to transport people, there are Kombi minibus versions of the Transit capable of carrying up to nine passengers, and Double Cab vans with a second row of seats.
The Verdict
For overall performance, cost, and capability we recommend the regular 128bph engine as it is a good compromise whilst allowing you the choice of almost all trim levels. If you’re looking for the best fuel economy, we recommend the mild hybrid, which returns 50.4 mpg.
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