Escort revises inside and out
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by John Kendal • Ford has released pictures of the revised Escort van range which is about to go on sale. Externally, the biggest change is at the front with a smaller oval grille than before, formed by a new bonnet and front bumper. Headlamps and front indicators are incorporated in a one-piece housing.
Inside is a new dashboard with NIondeo-style flowing lines. Fascia vents are replaced with barreltype outlets and there are new rotary heater controls. Like its car stablemates, the van has a four-spoke steering wheel incorporating the standard airbag with changes to the steering system.
Noise levels have been reduced by fitting a new front bulkhead and reducing panel gaps. New door mirrors are designed to reduce wind noise. Gearing has been revised by lowering the final drive ratio and raising the gear ratios to improve towing ability. New options include electric windows and five metallic paint colours. The model range consists of the 55 and higher payload 75 models; following Transit practice there will be two derivatives of each model, Escort and Escort Custom.
Engines are carried over from the previous Escort van with Ford's 1.3-litre petrol and 1.8-litre diesels-1.4-litre petrol engines will be available to special order,