Extra choices for the Transit range
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I/ Ford is introducing van versions of its revised Escort van and extending the range of the SVO body options on the latest Transit.
The Transit family will include parcel vans and welfare vehicles using selected bodybuilders including Dormobile, HawsonGarner and Vaile & Co, Ford has also produced a welfare version of its Courier van and is collaborating with Nissan on a luxury 4x4 for the leisure market.
The Escort vans, which will be launched at next month's NEC Motor Show, comprise 1.3 and 1.4-litre petrol-engined Popular 40 and 60 models with a 1.8-litre diesel-engined version of the 60 model. A 1.6-litre petrol option will be added early next year. Five-speed gearboxes are standard across the range; prices will be announced before the show.
The body gives 2.2m3 of load space with payloads between 510 and 720kg. It incorporates the car range body updates.
At the front, the fascia mounting arch, floor bracing and engine compartment panelling are all sturdier than before: the A-posts, side and front sills have also been strengthened.
Side doors now have impact bearers built in; rear-end improvements include a stronger door frame with slightly larger rear windows.
The Ford/Nissan luxury 4x4 will replace the Patrol and compete directly with the Mitsubishi Shogun. Built at Nissan's Spanish plant, the dual badged hybrid will be available on two wheelbases and with a choice of petrol or diesel engines.