Ford Transit Custom review

Introduction

Wearing the iconic ‘Transit’ badge, the Ford Transit Custom is the medium van from the hugely popular Ford vans range - being larger than a Transit Connect but smaller than a regular Transit. The Custom first arrived in 2012 and has been dominant in the market ever since. A facelift in 2017 and constant revisions since then have kept the Transit Custom at the very top of the medium van segment, while a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating, as well as impressive load volumes and economy figures, mean it's a vehicle you'll want to consider. 

Engines

Ford's 2.0-litre EcoBlue TDCi diesel engine comes in various outputs ranging from 105 PS up to 185 PS, all of which come fitted with a six-speed manual transmission as standard. There's also a six-speed powershift automatic gearbox available on models with 130 PS and above.

All Transit Customs are front-wheel drive with handy auto stop/start technology standard across the range. Lease customers will enjoy fuel economy in excess of 55 miles to the gallon if you opt for the 130 PS variant which features a clever 48 volt mild-hybrid system.

Meanwhile a Plug-in hybrid Ford Transit Custom, which marries a 1.0 EcoBoost petrol engine with a hybrid battery, promises zero emissions on electric-only power, to a targeted range of 35 miles.

Load Volume

The Ford Transit Custom is available in 'L1' and 'L2' guise (short and long wheelbases), offering between 6.0 and 8.6 cubic metres of load volume in the rear, which is extremely competitive for the medium van range. There is also the choice of H1 and H2 roof heights (standard and high) which are offered in both wheelbase lengths.

Standard on all models is a full-width steel bulkhead, which features behind the second row of seats in double-cab models. In regular panel vans, the bulkhead offers extra load length with a load-through facility underneath the passenger seat, meaning items up to three metres long can be carried even in short wheelbase Transit Custom vans. These models can also accommodate three Europallets and an 8x4 sheet.

Performance 

Vans do not come much easier to drive and much more comfortable than the Ford Transit Custom. The cabin is also one of the best-equipped on the market. You get an 8-way adjustable driver seat as standard and multi-function steering wheel with reach and rake adjustment to ensure the perfect driving position.

The high seating position allows good visibility, whilst the mirrors are fitted with secondary blind spot lenses with a wide angle of view, for good visibility of what is behind you. The Ecoblue engines offer a perfect balance of power and economy, with impressive torque figures from the smallest engine output upwards. For those travelling longer distances or carrying heavier items it may be worth opting for the 130 PS engine upwards.

Meanwhile the PHEV Transit Custom offers up to 91 mpg, while emitting just 69 g/km of CO2, which could slash a hefty amount from your tax bill.

Interior

We have already touched on the incredibly impressive cabin of the Ford Transit Custom van, which is not only comfortable, but also very practical. Technology from the latest Ford Fiesta is combined with numerous storage options and everything well within the driver’s reach. Even base 'Leader' models get a 4 inch infotainment screen, heated driver and passenger seats and steering wheel controls. Opt for range-topping 'Sport' models for even greater levels of comfort and convenience, which features such as a rear view camera with trailer hitch assist and leather seats.

Safety

As previously mentioned, the Transit Custom van boasts a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating, which is not to be sniffed at, and Ford's reputation for reliability is right up there with rivals like Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen. Because the Transit Custom has also been on the market for almost a decade, any niggles will have long since been sorted.

Verdict & Next Steps

The versatile Ford Transit Custom van has been the best-selling new van in the UK van market for as long as we can remember, and it is not difficult to understand why. The Custom is comfortable, reliable, economical and can carry heavy and large loads daily. 

You will struggle to find a better all-rounder than the Ford Transit Custom van.

Where to next?

View latest Ford Transit Custom van leasing deals- from just £218.99 exc VAT**

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*Score based on Select’s unique meta score analysis, taking into account the UK’s top four leading independent website reviews of the Ford Transit Custom

**Correct as of 07/04/2021. Based on the Ford Transit Custom 300 FWD 130PS Low Roof Double Cab Limited with 9 months initial payment, 5,000 miles over a 48 contract hire. Initial payment equivalent to 9 monthly payments or £1970.91, payments are excluding VAT, Ts and Cs apply. Credit is subject to status.