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- Highs Surprisingly good ride and handling, cavernous interior, highly configurable.
- Lows Some rivals offer higher payload capacity, unremarkable warranty coverage, gets pricey with options.
- Verdict The Transit stands out with good driving dynamics, multiple configurations, and a long list of available amenities.
Overview
Compared to typical large vans of the past, the Ford Transit is much more modern and efficient, with a two gas V-6 engine options but not the traditional V-8. Roof configurations range from an 83.2-inch overall height to 100.8 inch extended-roof versions to accommodate tall cargo or minibus use. There are two available wheelbases: 129.8 inches, with a 220.3-inch overall length; and 147.6 inches, with a 237.6- or 265.7-inch overall length. Maximum towing capacity for the Ford Transit is 7500 pounds.
What's New for 2018?
A locking glove box and LED cargo lamp switch are now standard, and there’s a new rear-exit door handle. A new forged alloy dual-wheel package is available for cargo vans and passenger models. On medium- and high-roof models, a standard rearview camera is mounted next to the license plate. There are new d-pillar assist handles, extended-length running boards, and optional power-folding heated mirrors with turn-signals. A new package with stone-gray exterior paint and charcoal leather-trimmed seats is available.
Pricing
Original MSRP:
- Base: $33,775
- XL: $36,495
- XLT: $37,790
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Gasoline and E85 flex-fuel versions of the 275-hp 3.7-liter V-6 are base engines, but the Transit’s star powerplant is the optional 310-hp 3.5-liter EcoBoost turbocharged V-6 that puts out 400 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic is the only transmission choice with each of the engine options. Rear- or all-wheel-drive is available. A big, low windshield and low front-door glass make maneuvering through traffic easier than you might expect for a 20-foot long vehicle, and the rack-and-pinion power steering, while a bit overboosted, provides much more feel and feedback than the old Econoline’s recirculating ball system. The strut-type front suspension with anti-roll bar also makes cornering more enjoyable and confidence-inspiring than usual for such a big machine. We recorded an impressive 7.5-second 0-60 mph time with no passengers or cargo on board, and a 202-foot 70-0 mph braking distance, about average for this size vehicle. A switch on the gearshift lever allows for upshifts and downshifts on mountain roads, and fleet models are available with speed governors limiting top speed to 65 mph, 70 mph, or 75 mph.
Fuel Economy
EPA fuel-economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest numbers on current and older vehicles, visit the EPA’s website and select Find & Compare Cars.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The Transit's cabin can be outfitted from fairly basic to surprisingly deluxe. It's available in two- to 15-passenger seating configurations, with cloth or leather-surfaced upholstery, the latter primarily for minibus and recreational-vehicle conversion applications. A 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat is available on all versions of the Transit. There is an available walk-through center console for work vans to allow for convenient laptop use. Cargo capacity behind the front seats is 461.3 cubic-feet for the short-wheelbase model and up to 487.3 cubic feet for the long-wheelbase version.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The base Transit comes sparsely outfitted with a four-speaker stereo and an auxiliary input. The available Ford Sync3 infotainment and connectivity system includes a 4.0-inch display, Bluetooth, a USB port, and a stereo with CD player and satellite radio. The system can be further upgraded with options like a 6.5-inch touchscreen, navigation, and six-speaker audio. Software updates may be accomplished via Sync3’s Wi-Fi, and enhanced 911 assist is included and may be contacted even without a Wi-Fi connection.
Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings
Overall Safety Rating (NHTSA)
For more information about the Ford Transit’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.
Warranty
Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer's Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer's CPO program.
