Since it can be configured in a variety of ways and fitted with different features, there are six trim levels in total of the Ford Transit Passenger Van. However, only the XL and XLT denominations see any difference in the list of features. Both Ford Transit Passenger Van models can be equipped with a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine or a twin-turbocharged variant. Power outputs are either 275 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque or 310 hp and 400 lb-ft. A ten-speed automatic transmission is paired with each, and power can be sent to the rear wheels or all four.
Every model is fitted with 16-inch wheels, and while the XL gets halogen headlights, the XLT trims get HID headlights. Basic XL features include air-conditioning, manually adjustable front seats, and a four-inch multi-function display for the infotainment, while the XLT has a 12-inch screen with navigation. Forward-collision avoidance and lane-keep assist are included on both trims.
Available features include a 12-inch infotainment display and navigation on the XL and an eight-speaker audio system and more advanced driver assistance tech like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert on both trims.
The prices of the new Ford Transit Passenger Van's trims vary based on the selected size, and how much you'll pay for yours depends on the extras to select. The starting price of the cheapest XL trim is $49,275, though the medium roof increases this to $50,405. The high-roof body will cost you at least $51,850, while the same roof with the extended-length body comes to $53,770. Similarly, the XLT starts at $51,785 and rises to $52,910, $54,360, or $56,265, respectively. If you want to swap the engine for the turbocharged V6, you'll need to pay an extra $1,775. These are the MSRPs of each Ford Transit Passenger Van model and do not include taxes, registration, or the destination charge of $1,795.
There aren't many comprehensive packages available to the two Ford Transit Passenger Van trim levels, though there are a number of standalone options. These include alloy-wheel options varying in price from $395 to $525 on the models with single wheels, or $940 for the forged aluminum wheels on the dual-rear-wheel models. The Sync 4 infotainment suite varies in price depending on how many features you want, ranging from $930 to $2,050 on the XL. The XLT already has the basic Sync 4 system containing some of those extra features, so upgrading it even further is cheaper and varies between $235 and $1,120. The HD Tow Package adds provisional wiring, a rear jumper with pin connectors, and a frame-mounted hitch receiver, all for $485.
There is no single right answer to this question. How many people you need to transport and the amount of cargo space required will all play a part, along with the features you desire. For a small family that spends a lot of time on the road or that goes camping for extended periods of time, a five-seater XLT should suffice, but if you need to transfer a lot of people short distances, a 15-seat XL is preferable. Regardless, the turbocharged engine is definitely desirable, as it helps the van move around town or on the highway with little effort. Longer trips will also benefit from the upgraded infotainment suite. We regard the XLT as a worthwhile upgrade, as it includes all the most important features we miss on the bare-bones XL, such as the improved safety features and Sync 4 infotainment system with smartphone integration.