Ford has announced that it’s putting a new 183bhp diesel engine in its Transit Custom Sport van, which makes it the most powerful Transit ever.
The 183bhp version – badged 185 – of the 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel engine heads up the latest range of Ford’s Transit Sport series.
The engine has an increased power output by nine per cent, and delivers a hefty 415Nm of torque, with the powerful Sport model being signified by the now trademark twin sports stripes.
The more powerful Transit Custom Sport sits alongside the Transit Courier Sport and Transit Connect Sport – the latter version now featuring an upgraded version of Ford’s 1.5-litre EcoBlue diesel engine, which produces 118bhp.
The Transit Custom is the largest Ford van to receive the ‘Sport’ treatment, with the Courier rounding off the range as the smallest Transit option.
On the Transit Custom, Ford fits a more muscular bodykit, bold sports stripes and the option of 17- or 18-inch alloy wheels, as well as a part-leather interior. Available in long- and short-wheelbase versions, buyers can also choose to have it as a more conventional van, alongside car-like versions with rear windows and additional seating.
A touchscreen with FordPass Connect connectivity features and a Wi-Fi hotspot for 10 devices is also fitted to the model. Prices for this start from £32,270.
The mid-size Transit Connect Sport comes with a unique styling pack as well as the option of silver or orange accents and 16-inch alloy wheels. Climate control and park assist are also fitted as standard for the £20,405 asking price.
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Transit Courier Sport is the cheapest entry into Sport ownership experience, with the model priced from a competitive £14,745. Despite that low entry price, it comes with plenty of equipment, such as 16-inch alloy wheels, rear parking sensors and part-leather sports seats.
Ford has experienced a sharp rise in demand for its Sport commercial options, with sales of the Transit Custom and Transit Courier Sport models rising by more than 50 per cent in 2018.
Hans Schep, general manager at Ford Commercial Vehicles of Europe, said: “Not everyone is satisfied with a standard white van. Ford’s Sport series vans appeal to customers who want to make a statement, while still delivering the tough, capable character that has made the Transit family best sellers.”
