White Van Man Reviews: Ford Transit Euro5
FORD are really hedging their bets with the new Transit. To the naked eye, outward changes are minimal but, like many manufacturers, they have really cleaned up their act when it comes to CO2 emmissions. They may have slapped on an extra 800 quid, but Ford are hoping this will be offset by the lower running costs of the new Transit and increase the appeal to commercial customers looking to tighten up their budgets. Ford estimate it could save drivers around £1000 on fuel costs alone compared with like-for-like models.
Of course van insurers like a bit of green too (and I’m not just talking about cash here). The cleaner the van, the less you’ll pay for your van insurance and lower emissions also lead to lower road tax.
New filters and other new features have been added to the new Transit to cut down on pollution and Ford have gone for a more efficient engine.
They have replaced the 2.2l and 2.4l diesels with a Duratorq 2.2 TDCi diesel engine, which is available in either 100, 125 or 140 bhp for front and rear-wheel drive. The rear-wheel drive version is also available in 155bhp.
This increased efficiency means you’ll not be seeing as much of your mechanic than you used to as service intervals have been bumped up from 15,000 and 20,000 miles. If you’re really looking for fuel economy, you should go for one of two models which carry the Econetic badge, a sign that it is a low emissions vehicle.
Ford claim that the Euro5 version of their Econetic-badged transits are 8.5% more efficient that previous Econetic models – which itself was 11% more efficient than the standard Transit. Yes, I know a lot of figures, but when you consider that great efficiency will save you money in the long run, it’s a welcome development.
Fuel consumption is put at 43.5mpg which is decent enough for a commercial vehicle and emissions can be as low as 173g/km with the 62mph limiter. There’s also less of the rattle and roar you’d expect from a diesel engine, further evidence of the refinements in this new Transit. Ford have lowered the compression ratio, guaranteeing greater efficiency with more power and less noise. Cruising along, you’d barely remember you’re driving a diesel, although a great big stomp on the accelerator will soon remind you.
The Ford Transit that feels like a car
The Transit Euro5 has an even smoother, car-like feel to it thanks to the six-speed gearbox which Ford have nicked out of their Mondeo models.
This clever van will even help you watch your speed with an inobtrusive 70mph speed limiter. Unlike similar features in other vehicles, this will ease into action one you hit top speed on a motorway. A useful tool considering speeding convictions will harm your chances of getting cheap van insurance.
Right now, this is only available in the Econetic models, but an Eco-pack, which will also feature stop-start system.
Although not in the earlier models, Ford intend adding a few more nifty features to the 2012 Transits including hill launch assist, a rear parking camera and an audio upgrade featuring DAB digital radio, Bluetooth and USB connectivity.
With Ford having sold over six million Transit fans since they first rolled off the production line almost 50 years ago, their popularity is unquestioned. Even with a price increase on this latest model, the increased efficiency and refinements should ensure its enduring appeal.
And if cheap van insurance appeals to you too, then get a quote from us now or drop our expert UK-based team a line today!