Ford Transit Van

Overview: Is the Ford Transit Van a Good Commercial Vehicle?

The Ford Transit is a full-size cargo and passenger van that has been a staple in the commercial vehicle market since its U.S. launch in 2015. While the Transit has been sold in overseas markets since 1963, it only arrived in the USA for the 2015 model year, replacing the long-running Ford E-Series. The Transit is available in cargo van, passenger van, and chassis cab configurations, offering a wide range of versatility for businesses and fleet owners. It's important to note that the smaller Ford Transit Connect is a different vehicle and that the E-Transit electric van is a Transit variant that's not part of this overview.

Note: Equipment, features, and trims can vary by model year. Always confirm these details when looking for used Ford Transit Vans for sale.

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Related: The Ford Transit Van Years To Avoid

Key Features

The Ford Transit Van offers:

• Full-size cargo van, passenger van, and chassis cab body styles
• Three roof heights and three body lengths
• Rear-wheel drive (RWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD)
• Gasoline or diesel engines (varying by year)
• Automatic transmission

Trims

The Ford Transit Passenger Van is available in XL and XLT trims. The XL trim offers basic amenities and is geared towards commercial users, while the XLT adds comfort and convenience features like power accessories, a larger infotainment screen, and chrome exterior trim. The work-focused Cargo Van comes in a single, no-fuss grade.

Comfort, Technology & Cargo

The Ford Transit Van's interior is designed with functionality in mind. The cabin features durable materials and easy-to-clean surfaces, making it ideal for commercial use. The Transit Van comes standard with a 4-inch multi-function display, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. Higher trims and optional packages add features like a larger touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone integration, navigation, and a premium audio system. Cargo capacity is a key selling point for the Transit Van, with up to 487.3 cubic feet of cargo space in the long-wheelbase, high-roof configuration.

How It Drives

The Transit Van’s driving characteristics are based on what’s under the hood. The base 3.5-liter V6 provides adequate acceleration, while an available turbocharged V6 adds extra performance. Some Transit Van years were available with a four- or five-cylinder turbodiesel, emphasizing low-end torque and fuel economy over speed. The Transit Van's ride is comfortable for a commercial vehicle, and its handling is relatively agile for its size. The optional all-wheel drive (AWD) system enhances driving confidence, especially during inclement weather.

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has given the Ford Transit Van a three out of five-star overall safety rating.

Reviews

Owner reviews on Kelley Blue Book for the Ford Transit Van are mixed. The average ranking is 3.8 out of 5, with feedback highlighting concerns about quality, value, and reliability.

Learn More: Which Years Of Used Ford Transit Vans Are Most Reliable?

FAQs

Is Ford discontinuing the Transit van?

No, Ford isn’t discontinuing the Transit Van. The vehicle is popular (Ford sold over 125,000 in 2023, according to CarFigures) and significantly contributes to the automaker’s bottom line. The E-Transit electric van is broadening the vehicle’s reach.

How many miles per gallon does a Transit van get?

The Ford Transit Van's fuel economy varies depending on the engine, body style, and configuration. The most fuel-efficient option is the 2.0-liter EcoBlue turbodiesel, which achieves an EPA-estimated rating of up to 24 mpg combined. Newer Transit Vans with gasoline engines are EPA-rated for 16-17 mpg combined.

Are Ford Transit vans expensive to maintain?

Ford Transit Vans generally have average maintenance costs for a full-size commercial van. The Transit Van benefits from Ford's extensive dealer network and readily available parts, which can help keep maintenance costs in check. Regular maintenance and proper care can minimize long-term expenses.

What is the difference between a Ford Transit van and a wagon?

The main difference between a Ford Transit Van and a Transit Wagon is their intended use. The Transit Cargo Van is designed primarily for commercial use, focusing on maximizing cargo space and payload capacity. On the other hand, vehicles like the Ford Transit 12 passenger van are suitable for shuttle services, large families, and other group transportation needs. The Ford Transit Passenger Van can accommodate up to 15 passengers when properly equipped.

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