Ford Transit T350 MWB Trend
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The latest addition to the long-term test fleet is the Ford Transit T350, a medium-wheelbase van with a medium roof height. Ford call this a ‘regular’ van, although it’s unclear if that is a reference to it being a panel van rather than a chassisor crew-cab, or to medium, predictably, sitting between small and large on the options list for wheelbase and roof height.
Under the bonnet is the Stage V, 2.2-litre Duratorq TDCi engine, labelled as 140PS (138hp), achieved at 3,500rpm with peak torque of 350Nm from 1,450rpm to 2,700rpm. It has a six-speed transmission and a 4.93:1 rear axle ratio.
Overall length of the van is 5,230mm and the medium roof height is 2,363mm, giving us a loadspace volume of 9.07m3. With a full fuel tank, kerbweight is 1,860kg, which provides a mighty 1,640kg payload (including the driver).
Ford has specified this van with Trend. This provides a bit of ‘pzazz’ to the ‘regular van’ specification, most notably wheel trims, remote central locking, cruise control, trip computer, leather steering wheel cover, electronically operated mirrors, rain-sensing wipers and Bluetooth connectivity.
If that isn’t enough, there are further options added, which include air conditioning (£650), load protection with MDF panels and rubber flooring (£150), and parking sensors on the rear bumper (£200). The final option is the one that will more than likely dictate how the van will be driven during its time with CM : the ECO driving pack. For £200 you get the auto-stop-start that reduces idling and saves fuel, and a 70mph speed limiter.
So far the ECO driving pack has helped us achieve an average of 33.2mpg. We have also been using the cruise control a lot, which creates a lot of problems with other car and van drivers who appear unable to maintain a constant speed. Nevertheless, it’s an easy to use and ergonomic system, and one that, along with the ECO pack, has helped our average fuel consumption.
Quick check
• Price: £27,510 (plus VAT). Options include: air-con, load area protection kit, rear step integrated with bumper, all-weather tyres, reversing aid, ECO pack
• Engine: 2.2 TDCi 140PS/350Nm • Payload: 1,640kg • Mileage: 6,130 • Expenses: None • Faults: None • Average MPG: 33.2mpg