Escort van finally hits UK streets
Page 12
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
• The Ford Escort van has finally gone on sale in the UK, following its Motor Show debut last September. Initial impressions of the van, which we have driven lightly loaded, are that it handles well, with reasonable ride comfort. Steering is light and precise in the L3 petrol model; slightly heavier in the 1.8 litre diesel. Subjectively, noise levels are disappointing and the diesel feels sluggish.
Ford has won a contract to supply Royal Mail with all its light vans this year, giving the Escort a good start in the fleet sector.
It is also expected to earn 270m in export sales this year, with 10,000 sales predicted in Europe and Scandinavia.
UK prices start at 26,990 (ex-VAT) for the 1.3 litre Popular 40, rising to 28,650 for the 1.8 diesel 60 Standard. This represents an increase of roughly 4.75% across the range over the old model. DA full road test of the diesel model will appear in CM later this year.