2021 Ford Transit Passenger Van Review: Versatile Transportation

The 2021 Ford Transit Passenger Van is perhaps one of the most versatile passenger cars money can buy in the USA with its various powertrain, roof-height, body- and wheelbase-length, and seating capacity options. It comes standard with a superb selection of driver-assist and safety features, even at the entry-spec level, but it's still a first-generation model, launched in 2015, so it still has many outdated elements such as rather thirsty powertrains and a rudimentary infotainment setup. Nevertheless, both V6 engines are powerful and capable with outputs ranging between 275 to 310 horsepower and 260 to 400 lb-ft of torque. The basic infotainment system can also be swapped out for a larger and more up-to-the-minute SYNC 3 unit. With it, the 2021 Transit Passenger Van is the more livable and more versatile alternative to the Nissan NV Passenger but as a purposed utilitarian isn't quite as luxurious as the Mercedes-Benz Metris Passenger Van.

Transit Passenger Van Exterior

Dimensions

Transit Passenger Van Performance

Engine and Transmission

Powering the 2021 Ford Transit Passenger Van line is one of two versions of a 3.5-liter 6-cylinder gas engine - in standard form, the unit develops up to 275 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. If that's not enough power for you, it can be strapped with two turbochargers for a more vigorous 310 hp and 400 lb-ft. Both versions of the engine come mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission and can be tethered to either a rear- or all-wheel drivetrain. With either power- and drivetrain, the Transit Passenger Van is capable of hauling a payload of up to 3,420 pounds and is rated for a maximum towing capacity of up to 4,600 lbs.

Transit Passenger Van Interior

Transit Passenger Van Trunk and Cargo Space

Warranty

US NHTSA Crash Test Result

Verdict: Is the 2021 Ford Transit Passenger Van A Good Van?

If you're in need of a versatile and commodious passenger hauler, the Ford Transit Passenger Van is a superb pick. It's a top-selling 5-door van presented with its powertrain options and variety of roof height, body length, wheelbase, and seating configurations. Performance from the Transit Passenger Van is solid with either of the powertrains in play, so you can really set the van up to your liking or requirements. It can be configured as an easy-to-drive, livable, and practical everyday cruiser or vacation liner for families, or as a genuine commercial people carrier for fleet owners or small-business business people. The standard infotainment system and the base consignment of creature comforts and conveniences are unimpressively scant, but the van does come with a pretty comprehensive array of driver assists and safety features, even at the entry-spec level. Every crashworthiness review for the 2021 Ford Transit Passenger Van differs slightly, depending on which roof height is chosen, but the results are seldom better than mediocre. Overall, the Transit is a versatile, comfortable, and fairly capable passenger van that supplies good livability and reliability, but rivals like the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter deliver a lot more in terms of comforts and conveniences.

What Ford Transit Passenger Van Model Should I Buy?

We see two types of buyers for the 2021 Transit Passenger Van. Some families may enjoy the space and versatility of the passenger van for their day-to-day trips and vacations, in which case we'd recommend the standard powertrain and RWD setup on the XLT model, along with the eight-seater configuration. If you're looking for a commercial passenger vehicle to add to your fleet as a shuttle, we'd go for the turbocharged powertrain and configure the cabin with the high roof option and 15 seats. Whatever the case, we'd certainly opt in the larger eight-inch infotainment touchscreen with the SYNC 3 software just to avoid the base unit, which feels far too rudimentary for a passenger vehicle. The price of the 2021 Ford Transit Passenger Van ranges from $41,695 to around $50,000, depending on the configuration and options.