New Ford Transit variants promise performance on difficult terrain

MANILA: Ford has confirmed the availability of the new Active and Trail variants for the Tourneo and Transit ranges, now for delivery in the UK. Valued customers of the auto brand in the Philippines can, for now, entertain hope that these Transit variants will eventually be made available here.

The new Transit Custom Trail and Transit Trail models are designed to function effectively in extreme working environments. Exclusive interior and exterior upgrades further guarantee that the Transit Custom Trail and Transit Trail are well-equipped to bring competence and comfort even in challenging situations without compromising convenience.

The rugged appeal of the new Ford Transit Custom Trail and Transit Trail are supported through improved capability for operators and owners whose jobs make them exposed to a challenging environment away from typical roads.

Trail variants include an oversized “Ford” lettering placed in the matte black grille with additional black cladding around the rear and front side panels and lower bumpers, which are matched with distinct “Trail” logos on the front doors and 16-inch alloy wheels. The Transit Custom can also be specified with running boards and roof rails for additional flexibility.

Trail models also gain from wipe-clean versatility to the cabin,  with full leather seating as standard delivering added luxury, and improved interior specification. Auto lighting, power-foldable door mirrors, and air-conditioning are come standard, similar to the Quickclear heated windscreen of Ford, which enables convenient departure even in harsh weather conditions.

A selection of drivetrains provides improved traction for challenging situations. The FWD Transit Custom Trail and Transit models are equipped with an mLSD as standard, and the Transit Trail can be availed with intelligent all-wheel drive for progress in extreme weather and terrain conditions.

The mLSD instantaneously transmits engine torque in low-grip conditions to the wheel with more excellent traction, enabling Transit Custom Trail and Transit Trail to go through extreme surfaces, gravel tracks, and unpaved roads.

The additional “mud/rut” and “slippery” selectable drive modes support the intelligent all-wheel-drive technology of the Transit Trail. These settings are configured to enhance driver confidence and performance across various driving conditions.

These are conveniently selected through the use of the drive mode controller on the dashboard. Intelligent all-wheel drive also includes AWD lock mode to divide the torque 50:50 between the rear and front axles on risky low-grip surfaces. The system will not compromise the dimensions or load volume of the Transit Trail as compared to its rear-wheel-drive (RWD) counterparts.

The electronic stability control system of the vehicle has also undergone recalibration to synchronize with the mLSD. Similar technology has been previously utilized to improve the handling and traction attributes of Ford Performance models, which include the Focus ST, Fiesta ST, an Focus RS. It also does not affect fuel efficiency or CO₂  emissions.

All Transit Custom Trail and Transit Trail models are available in double-cab-in-van and panel van body designs and are powered by the innovative 2.0-liter EcoBlue diesel engine with power output options of 128hp, 168hp, and 182hp.

Aside from this, Transit Custom Trail models provide the efficiency advantages of electrified powertrains through the distinct-in-segment 2.0-liter EcoBlue hybrid powertrains of Ford in 128 hp, 168 hp, and 182 hp power output options. The 48-volt mild-hybrid technology recuperates energy during deceleration, keeps it in a 48-volt battery pack, and utilizes the energy to enhance fuel efficiency.

Meanwhile, new Active variants of the Tourneo Custom and Transit Custom support the multi-activity lifestyles of corporate and private customers with supplementary body cladding and the alternative of an mLSD for improved traction on soft, slippery, and loose surfaces. An SUV-inspired exterior contributes to the appeal and increases convenience off the beaten track.

The range of Active variants will further expand in the later part of 2020, with the launch of the smaller Tourneo Connect Active and Transit Connect Active models.

Photos from Ford

Also read: Electrified Ford Fiesta to deliver more efficient performance