A commercial vehicle buyers' priorities are different from those of us who purchase cars and trucks for commuting or recreation. Therefore, so are the changes that make headlines when a vehicle conceived primarily for fleet use is updated for each passing model year.
For 2019, the Ford Transit full-size cargo van gets minor updates: mid-range models riding on the 3,759-mm wheelbase (148 inches) boast new rear-door hinges that swing open an extra 16 degrees; running boards are now an option on chassis cab and cutaway models; a rear recovery tow hook is standard; and some versions can be optioned with high-strength laminated side glass.
That leaves the Transit's fundamentals untouched. The 148-inch wheelbase model we mentioned above is bracketed by one shorter and two longer, and there are three roof heights. Ford also makes a passenger version of the Transit, and it's covered in a separate buyer's guide entry.
Powertrain options include a 3.7L V6 (275 hp/260 lb-ft of torque), a 3.5L EcoBoost turbo V6 (310 hp/400 lb-ft) and a 3.2L turbodiesel good for 185 hp and 350 lb-ft. All three come with a six-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive.
The Transit is one of the new breed of full-size vans designed originally for the European market but imported here a number of years ago to replace the venerable Econoline range. Competitors include the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter (perhaps the best known van on the market these days), the Ram ProMaster (a Fiat-based vehicle that stands out for its front-wheel drive layout) and the Nissan NV. The Ram division will also sell you a commercial version of the Dodge Grand Caravan minivan.
The standard features list here is all function and little fancy. There are two 12-volt power points, air conditioning, power-adjustable side mirrors, power door locks and windows, keyless entry and a tilt-and-telescopic steering column. Low-roof vans get right-side swing-out doors, while medium- and high-roof variants gain a sliding door.
Options include your choice of three wheelbase lengths and roof heights, a heavy-duty alternator, Bluetooth, dual sliding doors (for mid- and high-roof vans), dual rear wheels, long-arm side mirrors (which boost visibility when towing), heated side mirrors, power running boards, backup sensors, the Sync infotainment system and aluminum wheels.
Ford's fuel consumption estimates for the Transit's gas engines are 16.9/13.1 L/100 km (city/highway) with the 3.7L and 16.2/12.8 with the 3.5L turbo. Ford doesn't offer figures for the optional diesel.
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