Transport costs comprise a big part of expenses for small businesses. On the other hand, big families often find it hard to get a model that provides a good dose of flexibility, comfort and convenience without compromising capability. Ford considered these predicaments and came up with a solution in form of the “Ford Transit”. The 2017 Ford Transit is offered in both cargo vans and passenger wagons. The best thing about these models is the fact that buyers can customize them in many configurations to suit their needs perfectly. The Transit vans have earned themselves the reputation as America’s best vans. Due to the various configurations for interior, height, length, payload/cargo volume, passenger capacity and engines, everyone gets a model that suits their needs. Read along for more information:
2017 Ford Transit Exterior
The Transit is available in two body types i.e. as cargo vans and passenger wagons. The van is offered in a single trim level but the wagons are offered in XL and XLT trims. In addition, the models are offered in varying lengths i.e. Regular (medium), Long as well as Extended lengths. The models are also offered in different height styles (low-, medium- as well as high-roof heights). Further, the models handle different weight ratings hence the Transit 150, 250 and 350 nametags.
These different features make it possible for a wide variety of combinations. In fact, the models offer up to 58 different combinations.
2017 Ford Transit Interior
Many people love the fact that one can configure the cabin of the Transit to suit their unique applications. Vans are intended for cargo hauling and as such only offer the front row of seat leaving the rear fully dedicated for cargo. Wagons on their part are fully dedicated for hauling passengers. They can fit from 8 passengers to a maximum of 15 passengers if you chose the long extended wheelbase. Depending on one’s preferences, the seats can be had in 3-5 rows. The seats have been upgraded to feature heating function.
Transit vans are hauling monsters. Standard vans have a cargo carrying capacity of 246.7 cubic feet that can be expanded to 487.3 cubic feet if a buyer selects the Long Extended body version. The wagons can also be transformed to offer more cargo space in addition to their little cargo space at the rear. By folding all the seats, the wagons can match the cargo space offered by the vans.
Tech-wise, the Transit models are hooked up with Ford’ SYNC3 system that features voice recognition and fast processing speeds. The models also feature an intuitive user interface that offers a touch-screen with enhanced graphics. Both wagons and vans cone with a rearview camera along with a trailer hitch system as standard features. The models also feature a new LED cargo lighting package.
For safety, the models are offered with a host of driver assist features such as lane keep assist, parking assist, lane change assist, ABS , a backup camera among others. Like the 2016 models, the automaker still offers Ford Telematics as an option feature. The telematics help a person to monitor his/her fleet of Transit vans and wagons.
Engine and performance
The 2017 Transit is offered in three engine choices. The base mill is a 3.7 L, V-6 that produces 275 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. The automaker also offers a turbocharged 3.2 L, 5-cylinder diesel engine good for 185 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque. The final engine is a turbocharged 3.5 L, V-6 that produces 310 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque.
Towing and payloads will remain largely unchanged for the 2017 year. Payload ranges from 2740 pounds to 4560 pounds while towing capacity ranges from 2900 pounds to 7500 depending on the model chosen. Fuel economy will also remain unchanged for all models.
All engines are mated to a standard 6-speed automatic transmission system. There is an option for a Full Manual function that enables a driver to pull the model’s shift lever to “M” standing for manual mode. This allows the driver to use the same toggle switch to select the preferred gear.
Price and release date
The Transit Vans have a starting price of $31,610 while the Transit XL passenger Wagon starts at $34,365. Transit XLT Passenger Wagons are the most expensive with a starting price of $35,660. These prices rise past $40,000 when all extra options are selected. The models are already available in dealerships so head over to the automaker’s website to customize your Transit.
