Ford has updated its range of sporty vans in Europe with a new model as well as new and updated engines for the 2019 model year.
The big news is the Transit Custom Sport becomes more powerful than ever thanks to a new 2.0-liter EcoBlue turbo diesel that makes 185 PS (182 hp) and 415 Nm (306 lb-ft) of torque. Customers can have the new standard engine with six-speed manual or six-speed SelectShift automatic transmissions.
Ford anticipates CO2 emissions as low as 151 g/km and corresponding average fuel consumption of 6.9 l/100 km (40.9 mpg UK). Going on sale from mid-2019, the Transit Custom Sport van also benefits from a connectivity upgrade with the introduction of FordPass Connect on-board modem technology as standard. This turns the vehicle into a WiFi hotspot for up to 10 devices.
The tech upgrade continues with newly-available driver assistance technologies including Active Park Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control with Intelligent Speed Limiter, Lane-Keeping Aid, and Blind Spot Information System.
As before, the Transit Custom Sport is available in several configurations including van, passenger van, and double-cab-in-van in both short- and long-wheelbase versions. All feature unique chassis tuning for “enhanced steering, handling and ride, and a more responsive and agile feel.”
The sporty van is easy to recognize thanks to the twin stripes on the bonnet and front bumper, a more muscular body kit including body-side moldings and wheel arch extensions, as well as body-color bumpers, side mirrors and door handles. Ford Transit Custom Sport models also feature 17- or 18-inch alloys and partial leather interior trim in Ebony.
New 120 PS (118 hp) Ford Transit Connect Sport joins the family
Moving on, the Transit Sport lineup receives a third member for the 2019 model year, the Transit Connect Sport. Unveiled at the 2018 IAA Commercial Vehicle show, it is now on sale with an upgraded 120 PS (118 hp) 1.5-liter EcoBlue turbo diesel and six-speed manual transmission. Ford estimates an average fuel economy of 5.0 l/100 km (56.5 mpg UK) and corresponding CO2 emissions from 130 g/km.
As with the Transit Custom Sport, the Transit Connect Sport features a sporty body kit, sports stripes, and partial leather front seats. It also comes equipped with 16-inch Dark Stainless alloys.
Finally, the Transit Courier Sport compact van completes the lineup with a similar exterior treatment and a choice of two 100 PS (99 hp) engines: a 1.5-liter TDCi four-cylinder turbo diesel and a 1.0-liter EcoBoost three-cylinder gasoline unit, both mated to six-speed manual transmissions.