Summary
The Ford Transit has been around for half a century, but North American drivers will only be acquainted with models launched from 2015 onwards. Prior to 2015, the more compact Ford Transit Connect was available. The Ford Transit is a versatile passenger or cargo van that can be adapted to suit commercial or personal purposes.
Drivers looking for lots of space and various engine options won't be disappointed by what the Ford Transit van has to offer. All-new models give drivers four different trims with various heights, lengths and passenger capacities.
Safety
The front row of the 2015 base model is equipped with front and side airbags and stability control. Safety technology becomes more advanced in newer models with the introduction of optional lane-keeping alert and perimeter alarm in 2019. All-new models have advanced safety features, which include:
- Forward-collision warning – which alerts drivers of an impending collision
- Pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking – to help you stop before an imminent crash
- Optional blind spot information system with cross-traffic alert – to warn you of oncoming traffic
Interior
The interior is where drivers can really customize their vehicle. In 2020, the Ford Transit Crew Van was added to the lineup to give the base model an extra row of seating. The front cockpit is spacious and comes with comfortable features and easy-to-reach controls.
The new models are available in three separate dashboard options. Cloth seats are standard but vinyl is also an option. For the cargo models, vinyl and carpeted flooring are optional. Drivers can decide on the number of windows and sliding doors.
Technology
A rearview camera and infotainment system have always been available on the Ford Transit, but these two became standard in 2016. Also new for the 2016 year is the highly intuitive Sync 3 touchscreen interface, which allows you to hook up to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. As the bare-bones base model, drivers have a healthy selection of technical features with lots of entertainment packages to beef up the sound and entertainment system. Optional features include:
- Bluetooth
- Connectivity
- Satellite radio
- Additional speakers
Space
The Ford Transit cargo van offers drivers three different lengths (Regular, Long and Long-EL) and heights (low, medium and high) with an optional second row of seating for crew members. Ford Transit XLT passenger vans can seat up to 15 passengers, and all models have one or two second-row sliding doors.
The base model is perfect for city cargo transportation and as part of a commercial fleet. The high roof is recommended to allow for easy boarding on passenger vans. The front cockpit is airy, spacious and comes with supportive cloth seats.
Comfort
No matter what size, height or trim you select, you'll be surprised by how well the Ford Transit handles the road. It excels in various driving conditions and offers a decent amount of power. The V6 engine may struggle a bit if you're towing a heavy load. Because of its responsive steering and easy handling, the Ford Transit drives more like a car than a van, making it accessible and comfortable to drive. The interior cabin is relatively quiet and cozy for a working vehicle.
