More power for Transit
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• Ford has unveiled its new Transit at the Frankfurt Motor Show. External changes involve the front grille, lamps and bumper, which have been given the Ford "family" treatment, echoing the passenger car range. Only bus variants were on display at Frankfurt, which is primarily a car show.
The Transit's engine range is now headed by the 75kW (100hp) 2.5-litre turbo-diesel featuring the Lucas "drive-bywire" system with electronic fuel injection. The naturally aspirated diesel has been uprated by 11% to produce 59kW (79hp). The two-litre petrol engine, which is fitted with a catalyst, now produces 72kW (96hp). Wheelbase is increased to 2.84m for SWB models and 3.57m for LWB models.
While the Transit looks much the same from the outside, the floorpan has been significantly changed, with independent front suspension and single rear wheels now fitted to the highpayload long-wheelbase models; handling, loading access and ease of manufacture are all said to have benefited from the redesign, which should also allow the introduction of a four-wheeldrive driveline in the future.
There are further detail improvements to the steering, suspension and brakes, including the option of a sophisticated four-channel ABS system.
The new Transit shares its 10 October UK launch date with the Fiesta-based Courier high-roof van. Both new models will be on the Ford stand at next month's Earl's Court Motorfair.