2023 Author: Eric Donovan | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-05-21 15:44
Due to the success, Ford now runs the Transit Sport as a regular production version. The Cologne-based company paid particular attention to driving comfort with this van.
By Stefan Zaumseil
The term “small van” is known to be relative and a lot has happened here with the new Ford Transit. It combines functionality with an almost legendary reputation and is the only van available with a choice of rear-wheel or front-wheel drive. Now in the sixth generation, the extensive range of models has been upgraded with new engines, new transmissions and improved standard equipment. So armed, Ford is now aiming for an annual sales figure of 25,000 units in Germany alone. The most frequently sold engine, the 2.2-liter common rail turbodiesel with front-wheel drive, got a power boost and now makes 140 hp at 3500 rpm, and the maximum torque has been increased to 350 Nm.
From special models to series
A new six-speed gearbox has been developed for the front-wheel drive vehicles, the first gear of which has a short ratio, but is better suited for starting with a full load or with heavy trailers. The new sixth gear, on the other hand, has a very long ratio and is intended to significantly reduce fuel consumption over long distances. In any case, the noise level is lower in sixth gear when driving faster on the motorway. On the other hand, nothing has changed in the inevitable wind noise of a van.
The Transit Sport takes an unusual route. Due to the surprising success it is no longer limited as a special model, but as a normal version in the Transit range. The idea of equipping a panel van with a double-pipe exhaust, 18-inch alloy wheels, aprons, wheel arch extensions and eye-catching "rally stripes" is not new, but it also seems to work with a transit series model.
Engine power a delight
A new five-cylinder turbodiesel has been developed for the rear-wheel drive car; the 3.2-liter common rail has an output of 149 kW / 200 hp and a maximum torque of 470 Nm. The six-speed gearbox, which has also been used in the major Transit so far, enables remarkable driving performance. When unloaded, the sprint to 100 km / h is almost car-level, and the top speed of 175 kilometers per hour is a delight for craftsmen in a hurry, but probably rather frightening for other road users. Ford specifies fuel consumption as 10.5 liters of diesel per 100 kilometers. The driver's cab of the racing box is far removed from the artisan ambience. It is presented in two-tone gray and is loosened up by the center console, storage compartment and gear shift gate. The seats are too short for a comfortable thigh rest and offer too little lateral support,but are comfortable and not too hard. Unfortunately, the steering wheel can only be adjusted in height, so that a slightly taller fitter is forced to press his right knee against the center console for hours.
Impressive driving comfort
The driving comfort is also at an impressively high level for a van, only the enormous length of the Ford Transit FT 460 EL of 6.47 meters makes it necessary to turn even more carefully. The ESP, which is now standard, ensures relaxed driving with a load and in wet conditions, but does not replace the necessary caution when handling the total weight of up to 4.6 tons. The hill start assist, which is also standard and maintains the brake pressure for two and a half seconds, is a great help. The pleasantly low noise level was achieved through improved silencers and engine insulation, even at 80 km / h on the country road, a relaxed conversation with the two quite seated colleagues is still possible. They must be protected by airbags in addition to the driverThe health of all employees should be worth EUR 245 extra.
Moderate cost
The qualities of the Ford Transit as a pack animal are still high: rear doors opening 180 degrees, sliding side doors, between 900 and 2,300 kilograms of payload and a stable chassis, combined with moderate purchase and maintenance costs. For example, the most expensive Ford Transit FT 460 EL panel van with 200 hp diesel, rear-wheel drive and 2.3 tons of payload costs 36,080 euros, the cheapest Transit costs 19,450 euros and offers 900 kilograms of payload with front-wheel drive and 85 hp diesel.
