Ford Transit range expands with Trail and Active variants

Ford has expanded the Transit model range with two new rough-road focused models, the Trail and Active.

The new Transit Trail and Transit Custom Trail models have been designed to operate in tougher working environments, with the enhanced traction of a new mechanical limited-slip differential (mLSD) on front-wheel drive variants, and all-wheel-drive on Transit.

New Active variants of the Transit Custom and Tourneo Custom features additional body cladding and the option of an mLSD for enhanced traction on loose, slippery or soft surfaces.

The range of Active vehicles will be further expanded later in 2020, with the introduction of the smaller Transit Connect Active and Tourneo Connect Active models.

Transit Trail and Transit Custom Trail models are priced from £35,685 and £29,250, respectively.

Trail variants feature oversized “Ford” lettering in the matte black grille with additional black cladding around the front and rear lower bumpers and side panels, complemented by unique 16-inch alloy wheels and “Trail” logos on the front doors. Transit Custom can also be specified with roof rails and running boards.

Developed in partnership with driveline technology specialists Quaife, the mLSD automatically transfers engine torque in low grip conditions to the wheel with the most traction, allowing Transit Trail and Transit Custom Trail to more comfortably tackle unpaved roads, gravel tracks and challenging surfaces.

All-wheel-drive models feature ‘Slippery’ and ‘Mud/Rut’ selectable drive modes, designed to improve performance and driver confidence across a variety of driving scenarios and an AWD Lock mode to split torque 50:50 between front and rear axles on extreme low-grip surfaces.

Trail specification includes leather seating, air conditioning, power-foldable door mirrors and automatic headlight activation.

All Transit Trail and Transit Custom Trail models are available in panel van and double-cab-in-van body styles, and are powered by Ford’s 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel engine with a choice of 130PS, 170PS and 185PS power outputs.

In addition, Transit Custom Trail models can be specified with Ford’s 2.0-litre EcoBlue Hybrid powertrains in 130PS, 170PS and 185PS form. The 48-volt mild hybrid technology recovers energy during deceleration, stores it in a 48-volt battery pack, and uses the energy to increase fuel efficiency.

New Transit and Tourneo Custom Active models follow the success of the Ford Fiesta Active and Focus Active passenger vehicles.

Transit Custom Active starts at £30,000 and Tourneo Custom Active from £37,950.

Active models are distinguished by an SUV-inspired exterior, including 17-inch alloy wheels, a mesh grille, additional body cladding and roof rails.

For users requiring additional capability in more challenging driving conditions, Transit Custom Active and Tourneo Custom Active can also be specified with the mLSD as an optional extra (£550 RRP).

All Active models feature part-leather seat trim and the addition of a blue instrument panel accent for Tourneo Custom Active.

The Tourneo Custom Active’s interior can easily be reconfigured to give passengers more room or increase luggage space. The seats can also be reversed to create a conference seating layout or removed entirely.

Active series are available with power outputs of 130PS, 170PS and 185PS depending on model and specification. Automatic and manual gearboxes are available across the range, with the optional mLSD available on manual vehicles.