Select a year
- Highs Extensive list of standard driver-assistance features, impressive handling, quiet, up-to-date interior.
- Lows Higher base price than many competitors, competitors offer lengthier warranty coverage, some rivals have larger payload capacity.
- Verdict Pleasurable driving dynamics, multiple cabin configurations, and modern amenities make the Ford Transit the leading choice in the full-size van market.
Overview
Whether you’re looking for an entry into the van life or you need a well-equipped cargo van for business purposes, the 2021 Ford Transit can handle nearly anything you throw at it. Ford offers scores of configurations to fit into your needs, plus a host of driver-assistance features standard. The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter offers greater payload capacity, and the Transit’s base price is higher than some rivals, but when pitted against the rest of the field of full-size vans, the Ford still rises to the top of the segment and earned an Editors' Choice award. The Transit’s handling is surprisingly adept for a vehicle it’s size and the cabin unexpectedly quiet. Whatever the job requirements or family needs, the Transit is up to it.
What's New for 2021?
The 2021 Ford Transit's upgrades over the 2020 model year are few but should make those hauling gear happy. An increase in Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) to 11,000 pounds points to a larger maximum payload for RWD and AWD cargo van configurations. An electronic parking brake is now standard on all single rear-wheel variants, and three new colors join the options sheet: Abyss Gray, Avalanche, and Carbonized Gray.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
Without any powertrain or other substantial updates to the 2021 Ford Transit, we anticipate its pricing to stay roughly the same. With that in mind the base-model Ford Transit cargo van T-150 that comes with a generous selection of standard features is our pick of the range. This van rides on 16-inch steel wheels, and it comes with exterior features such as power-adjustable sideview mirrors and a split swing-out rear door for easy cargo access. A four-way adjustable driver's seat and a manually adjustable tilt-and-telescoping steering column are on hand to help you get comfy behind the wheel. The list of standard equipment includes amenities such as Bluetooth connectivity, dual USB ports, and air conditioning. Additionally, all 2021 Ford Transit vans come with driver-assistance features such as lane-keeping assistance and lane-departure warning. We'd include the optional blind-spot monitoring for safer lane changes.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Ford's Transit is offered with two powertrains. The base engine is a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V-6 that provides 275 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. There's also a turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6 available that generates 310 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, and buyers can choose between rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. The Transit is capable of towing up to 7500 pounds. The 2020 Transit could accommodate a payload of up to 4530 pounds but we expect that number to rise for 2021 thanks to a larger GVWR. The Mercedes Sprinter offers more robust payload capabilities. In our testing, a Transit with the turbocharged V-6 made it from zero to 60 mph in 6.8 seconds. That makes it quicker than a Nissan NV that we tested; that van completed the sprint in 7.5 seconds. The Transit's suspension is tuned to deliver a forgiving ride quality that you'll appreciate during daily commutes.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
Full-size vans such as the Transit are exempt from federal fuel-economy standards. As a result, this van hasn't been tested by the Environmental Protection Agency. As is the case with many full-size vans, the Transit isn't exactly a leader in fuel efficiency. In our time with a 2020 model, we logged 17 mpg on our 200-mile highway test route with the turbocharged V-6 and we don’t expect that number to get any better in 2021.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Ford offers the Transit with a variety of roof heights and wheelbase lengths, and this allows you to tailor the cabin size to fit your needs. The Transit passenger wagon seats up to 15 passengers. The van's cabin design is slick and contemporary, taking cues from the Ford Explorer. The Transit's interior is quiet at highway speeds, shielding passengers from road noise.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The base Transit is equipped with features such as a four-speaker sound system, Bluetooth phone and music streaming, and a 4.0-inch multi-function display. All models come with a Wi-Fi hotspot that allows your passengers to enjoy easy connectivity. The options list includes an 8.0-inch display screen, integrated navigation, Sirius XM satellite radio, and Android Auto/Apple CarPlay smartphone integration.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Overall Safety Rating (NHTSA)
The 2021 Ford Transit received overall crash-test ratings between three and four stars (depending on the body style) from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), but it hasn't been evaluated by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Ford has equipped this van with plenty of standard driver-assistance features that can help to prevent accidents. Key safety features include:
- Standard forward-collision warning with automated emergency braking
- Standard lane-keeping assistance and lane-departure warning
- Available adaptive cruise control
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
The Transit provides adequate warranty protection. Still, you'll get longer coverage with the Nissan NV and its five-year/100,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty.
- Limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles
- No complimentary scheduled maintenance
