The new Transit Custom van is getting a high-performance makeover as Ford adds an MS-RT version to the line-up.
Ford designed and engineered the brand in conjunction with specialists at MS-RT — a branch of Ford’s M-Sport rally partner — and the newly developed van will combine MS-RT’s unique motorsport-inspired styling with a boosted driving experience and commercial user-pleasing payload capacity.
The MS-RT will be the top tier of the Transit Custom range, benefiting from styling upgrades, such as an aerodynamic front bumper with an integrated spoiler, side skirts to lower the overall stance of the vehicle, and a new rear bumper with a diffuser. There is also a motorsport-inspired rear spoiler at the top of the van, which will be available in a split version for panel vans with cargo doors.
Anthracite 19-inch alloy wheels with 235/45R19 Goodyear Eagle Sport tyres are tucked under the extended wheel arches. Combined with the 500mm wider track, these provide a lower unsprung weight, which is great for handling, improving grip and stability.
Black gloss mirror caps and door handles, coupled with MS-RT Blue painted brake callipers, will help the van stand out in a crowd. If that’s not bold enough for you, vivid Yellow Green and MS-RT Blue are just a couple of the eye-catching colours from the range.
Inside, seats with side bolsters are finished in vegan eco-leather and suede, adorned with MS-RT logos embroidered with blue thread. This upholstery will be used throughout, whether it’s the driver’s seat and twin passenger bench of the panel van, or the crew van's driver and single passenger seat and three rear seats.
Further features include front and rear parking aids, dual-zone electronic automatic temperature control, cruise control, a digital rear-view camera, and an intelligent speed limiter.
Most Powerful Transit Custom Ever
The suite of MS-RT upgrades will be available for Transit Custom vans powered by diesel engines, plug-in hybrids or pure-electric E-Transit Custom models.
The E-Transit Custom version will run a 285hp, rear-wheel drive electric motor, making it the most potent Transit Custom ever. The power can be limited using selectable driving modes to 218 or 136hp.
There will be two diesel-powered models powered by Ford’s 2.0-litre EcoBlue engine.
One will have an eight-speed automatic gearbox sending 170hp to the front wheels, with an all-wheel drive option available, while a lower-powered 150hp variant will have a six-speed manual gearbox and be the entry point to the MS-RT models.
The plug-in hybrid option features a 2.5-litre petrol engine and an 11.8kWh battery, producing 232hp, and will arrive in the UK later in the year.
Power is nothing without practicality, and while the details of payload and cargo volumes are yet to be available for the individual models, Ford suggests that the MS-RT range will offer up to 6.8m3 maximum load space and up to 1,124kg maximum net payload.
Ford Transit Custom MS-RT Availability
Prices are yet to be announced by Ford for the Transit Custom MS-RT, but customers can now place orders for the all-electric E-Transit and diesel-powered models, The diesel panel van is expected to start at around £50,000 plus VAT, and deliveries are likely to begin in mid-2024.
Hans Schep, general manager, Ford Pro Europe:
“We’re delighted to add MS-RT models to our Ford Pro portfolio, offering an exciting, halo option from the dealership for customers who need a commercial vehicle but also want to make a statement about their business. More customers are wanting a work vehicle for the week but something that supports their lifestyle at the weekend. These new MS-RT vehicles are the perfect answer.”
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