Updated Ford Transit range gets frugal new EcoBlue diesel
Ford upgrades Transit and Transit Custom get all-new diesel engine for greater power and efficiency
Ford has updated its Transit and Transit Custom panel vans for 2016 with a new diesel engine, updated infotainment and a raft of new driver assist systems.
Both the full-size Transit and Transit Custom benefit from the new 2.0-litre 'EcoBlue' diesel unit, which is said to improve fuel efficiency by up to 13 per cent over the old 2.2-litre TDCi engine. CO2 emissions are from 157g/km for the Custom, and 174g/km for the Transit.
Both also achieve a claimed 46.3mpg and 42.2mpg respectively in their most frugal forms with start/stop fitted. To reach these test figures the vans use AdBlue urea exhaust gas treatment systems, and Ford estimates a £1,250 reduction in fuel spending over 80,000 miles.
The EcoBlue engine is offered in three power ratings; 104bhp, 129bhp and 168bhp. 20 per cent more torque at 1,250rpm means it should feel more flexible, too. For is claiming "major reductions" in engine noise and improved refinement.
Under the skin, the steering of the Transit and Custom models has been revised for better feedback, and a tweaked rear damper design claims improved comfort and stability. A new 'SelectShift' automatic gearbox will be added from late 2016, which is said to be more responsive and efficient and allows manual shifting on the gearstick.
New driver assist tech has been borrowed from passenger cars like the Mondeo and S-MAX, too. Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection can be specced, while adaptive cruise control and traffic sign recognition are also optional.
An upgraded stability control system brings features like Side Wind Stabilisation that applies the brakes on one side to reduce the effect of crosswinds, while Curve Control and Roll Stability Control helps to improve braking stability and reduce the risk of a roll-over.
Transit customers can also add Ford's SYNC 2 voice-activated infotainment and navigation system. A six-inch colour touchscreen features on models equipped with that, while the standard-fit Sync system now comes with a larger four-inch screen.
The only exterior clue to the 2016 updates on the Transit and Transit Custom is the new chrome strip on the lower front grille. The vans are available to order now for delivery in mid-2016, although no price increase has been mentioned.
Read our full review of the Ford Transit here...
