There are many vehicles out there which small businesses can use for their cargo and workforce hauling needs. However, few can match the versatility and connectivity of the Ford Transit lineup.
Referred to as America’s best van, the Transit offers many combinations for interiors, length, height and drive-trains such that it is safe to literally say there is a Ford Transit for every need.
2016 Ford Transit Van
2016 Ford Transit Exterior
The new 2016 Ford Transit is offered in two trims i.e. the Van and the Wagon. Both options are then offered in Regular (Medium), Long and Long Extended lengths.
The Transit is also offered in a number of different heights. Further, there are several body styles which include cargo van, passenger van, chassis cab and cutaway van. These different offerings lead to a wide variety of combinations which ensure each buyer gets a Transit that fully fits their requirements. Actually, there are a total of 58 different combinations up from the outgoing model’s 47.
Vans with medium and high roofs have an option for new sliding doors which didn’t have an option for them in the past. The exterior also features four new colors which are Caribou, magnetic, Race Red and Shadow Black.
2016 Transit Wagon
2016 Ford Transit Interior
The interiors are styled differently according to their different applications. The Van offers front row seating only, the rear is fully dedicated to cargo.
On the other hand, the Wagon which is configured to carry passengers is available in different configurations which accommodate eight, ten, twelve or a maximum of fifteen passengers. The seats arrangement varies from three to five rows.
When it comes to cargo space, the Transit is a monster. The Medium Van has 246.7 cubic feet of cargo space. The space expands to a whopping 487.3 cubic feet in the Long Extended Van. Though the Wagon offers little cargo space at the very rear, its seats can be folded down to match the Van’s cargo space.
The 2016 Transit will be equipped with an enhanced SYNC 3 which offers faster processing speed and a more conversational voice recognition function. The Transit also features a user interface with a Smartphone-like touch-screen and enhanced graphics. Both wagons and Vans also feature a rearview camera with trailer hitch assist system as standard. Transit cutaway and chassis models feature a rearview mirror-integrated back up camera display. Lane keep assist is also offered as standard while Ford Telematics which allow you to monitor your fleet is available as an option. Other features include theater dimming and dome lights with map lights. For easier access, the USB jack has been relocated to the center console.
Engine Specs
The 2016 Ford Transit is offered in a number of engines. Powering the base models is a 3.7 L, V6 gasoline engine. This engine produces 275 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. There is also another petrol engine which is a 3.5 L, V6 EcoBoost capable of producing 310 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque.
There will also be a diesel engine which will be a 3.2 L, 5-cylinder Duratorq (Power Stroke I5). This engine is capable of producing 185 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque. All engines will be mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission system.
Power will be channeled to the rear wheels only. Just like the outgoing models, the 2016 Ford Transit comes with a speed-limiting function. The new models speed can be set at 65 mph, 70 mph (new for 2016) and at a top speed of 75 mph. According to the automaker, the speed-limiting function helps reduce fuel consumption as well as encourage safe driving.
Buyers looking to upfit their models can opt for auxiliary fuse panels, a heavy duty alternator and an absorbed glass mat (AGM) battery which is available on gas models only. When properly equipped, the 2016 Ford Transit can tow as much as 7,500 pounds.
Price and release date
The 2016 Ford Transit is already in dealer showrooms. The base model has a starting MSRP price of $ 30,960.
