2017 Ford Transit Cargo Van Review
The Ford Transit is a versatile load-lugger that can be configured to transport either people or goods. Our focus is on the Transit Cargo which offers a range of body lengths and roof heights to suit a wide range of business requirements. An available diesel engine further enhances its appeal.
What’s it like inside?
You sit up high in the Transit, the sedan-like dashboard and instrumentation are a big step up from older vans like the geriatric Chevrolet Express/GMC Savanna duo which offer distinctly sub-par interior fittings. Forward and side visibility is excellent although, depending on the configuration, the view out the back can be severely restricted. Thankfully a rearview camera is standard.
The two front seats offer a good level of comfort and there is plenty of room for adults of all shapes and sizes.
The cabin equipment includes some nice-to-have features and there are some luxury options available to. The focus here is on storage space and cargo carrying capacity though and there are plenty of bins and oddments storage spaces up front while the class-leading cargo area can be customized from a regular wheelbase low roof height to a massive extended wheelbase high roof version.
The rear features a 12V power point, numerous cabin lights, strap mounting points and a wide-opening tailgate.
How does it drive?
If you haven't driven a big van in a while the Transit will impress you with its easy-going nature and light controls. The cabin remains relatively quiet at speed although refinement levels are not quite up there with a sedan. The ride quality is generally firm although matters improve when the van is loaded up with cargo.
The automatic transmission responds well to driver inputs and while the base engine can get a bit breathless at higher speeds, there are more powerful available options.
What about the performance?
There are three engine options to choose from, the standard 3.7-liter V6 offers 275 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, a 3.5-liter turbocharged EcoBoost V6 provides 310 hp, 400 lb-ft, and a diesel powered 3.2-liter 5-cylinder motor makes 185 hp and 350 lb-ft. All are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and power the rear wheels.
The base 3.7-liter engine is sufficient for most tasks and the torquey diesel or powerful EcoBoost 3.5-liter are better choices for carrying heavier loads.
What are my options?
The Ford Transit Cargo Van is offered in one trim level which is available in a variety of body styles and engine options.
You can choose from a low or medium height roof style paired with regular or long wheelbases. The high roof style is reserved for the extended wheelbase chassis. The available engine choices depend on the rear axle ratio and gross vehicle weight rating you require.
Standard equipment includes multiple cabin and cargo area lights, front overhead and center console, 2-speaker audio system, air-conditioning and 16-inch wheels.Notable standard safety equipment includes a rearview camera with trailer hitch assist, tire-pressure monitoring system, trailer stability control and side-wind stabilization.Available options include a Sync 3 infotainment system with navigation, 10-way power seats, reverse sensing system, trailer brake controller, lane-keeping alert with driver alert and cruise control. Load-lugging extras include dual heavy-duty batteries, heavy-duty alternator, power running boards, long-arm power mirrors, Ford Telematics system and a durable cargo floor liner.
The Verdict
The Ford Transit is a versatile van that can be configured in a large variety of body styles to suit a number of requirements. There are a range of standard and available modern safety systems and luxury features too.
The availability of three efficient and powerful engine options and the car-like driving experience further underline the easy usability of this modern cargo carrier.
