You think of the Transit label and you immediately think of a British institution.
Taunus Transit van (1953-1965)
However the first Ford vans to wear the Transit badge were surprisingly built in Cologne, Germany, for customers on the Continent. Proving ahead of its time, European drivers were huge lovers of the Ford 'Taunus Transit', particularly when it came to the excellent amount of storage space on offer.
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This model was not exported in huge numbers, with production ceasing twelve years after its inception, but it proved a significant step in the birth of the Ford Transit van as we know and love it today.
Ford Transit Mark 1 (1965-1977)
The longest production run of any Transit van to date, the first-generation Transit was largely unaltered during its impressive twelve-year lifespan. Initially the Transit van was built in Ford’s facility in Berkshire. However massive demand from customers meant that production moved to Southampton, where it continued until 2013.
Ford Transit Mark II (1978-1985)
The Ford Transit Mark II was a heavily facelifted version if its predecessor, with notable cosmetic and engineering improvements, which included square headlamps and a longer nose section that could accommodate a modern in-line cylinder engine, rather than an old fashioned V4.
The Mark II van offered more reliability and comfort than the previous model, as the popularity of the Transit van continued to surge.
Ford Transit Second Generation (1986-1994)
The Ford Transit van did not receive a major change for more than a decade - which perhaps illustrates its unwavering appeal during this period. The second generation built upon all the strengths of the previous model including durability, versatility, and value for money, but with a modified interior and new bodyshell which changed the shape of the bonnet.
Ford Transit facelift and Hallmark model (1994-1999)
1994 saw the second generation Transit receive a significant facelift with a new dashboard and nose. Other features were also introduced which are taken for granted in today’s models, but were very much ahead of their time - including including air bags, central locking, electric windows and air conditioning. 1995 Ford vans celebrated the thirtieth anniversary of the Transit van with the Transit Hallmark variant. 
Limited to 600 models, you would be very lucky to get your hands on the incredibly rare Transit Hallmark.
Ford Transit Third Generation (2000-2005)
Advances in technology came with the third-generation model launched in 2000, with a new car-like feel behind the wheel being the most significant advancement on previous models. The new Transit was still excellent at carrying heavy loads; however it was now more efficient and easier to control, claiming the prestigious International Van of the Year crown in 2001.
Ford Transit Fourth Generation (2006-2012)
The Transit's body received a facelift and owners also enjoyed the introduction of new front and rear lights. An uprated interior was also introduced, which featured the gearstick mounted on the dashboard of the van and a new corporate radio design. There were also revised powertrains, with a Sport model also joining the range in 2006.
Ford Transit Fifth Generation (2013-2018)
There were now two distinct Transit body forms available, with the introduction of the medium-sized front-wheel drive Ford Transit Custom van to the market, alongside the full-size Ford Transit van designed with 'New Edge' styling and an interior inspired by the Ford Focus.
Ford Transit facelift (2019-2021)
The model which was first seen at the 2018 IAA Commercial Vehicle Show in Hanover is now established in the large van market, with adaptations including the introduction of mild hybrid technology for the first time.
The Ford Transit van range as we know it today has something for everyone’s requirements including Ford Transit Courier and Transit Connect small vans, to the UK’s best-selling Ford Transit Custom van and full-size Transit.
*Prices excluding VAT. Credit is Subject to Status, Ts and Cs and Arrangement Fees apply. Excess mileage may apply. Price correct as of 28/02/2021.
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