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Trucksales Staff20 Apr 2017
NEWS

Ford Transit gets auto transmission

Blue Oval's vans get new self-shifter among other upgrades across various models
Ford’s one-tonne and two-tonne commercial vans are now be available with an automatic transmission, as part of a number of updates to the Blue Oval's Transit range of workhorses.
Both the current Transit and smaller Transit Custom vans were previously only available with a six-speed manual transmission. However, some front-wheel drive variants can now be optioned with a six-speed auto as well as a new, more efficient 2.0-litre EcoBlue turbo-diesel engine.
The six-speed auto is a $2750 option on both the 290S and 340L Transit Custom variants, while only the front-drive 350L Transit model fitted with the new 2.0-litre EcoBlue engine will be available with the auto for a $3700 premium.
The other rear-drive Transit models will continue with the sole choice a six-speed manual transmission and the existing 2.2-litre engine.
Performance
Ford says the "all-new next generation" 2.0-litre EcoBlue engine provides more power and torque, better fuel efficiency, lower emissions and longer service intervals.
Fitted to the Transit, the new Euro 6-compliant, 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine will produce up to 125kW/405Nm, compared to the current Euro 5-compliant 2.2-litre engine's 114kW/385Nm.
In the Transit Custom van, the new 2.0-litre engine has peak figures of 96kW/385Nm, compared to 92kW/350Nm in the current 2.2-litre fitted to that model. Fuel economy with the new engine has improved, from 7.2L/100km to 6.4L/100m in the Transit Custom 290S with manual transmission, for example, as have CO2 emissions (165g/km versus 191g/km for the same model).
Servicing
Ford has also extended the recommended standard service interval period across both the Transit and Transit Custom fitted with the new engine – from 15,000 to 30,000km, or 12 months, whichever occurs first. The factory warranty has also been increased to three years/200,000km (previously 100,000km).
Technology and extras
Also new to the Transit is the availability of Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and a 6.0in touchscreen with 'pinch and swipe' smartphone-like capability, as part of a new City Nav Pack option on the Transit 350L FWD Automatic model.
Matching technology offered on rivals like the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, the new 2.0-litre Transit and Transit Custom will also come standard with new wind stabilisation technology to help drivers to remain in their lane during high crosswinds. The system counteracts the effects of side gusts by automatically applying the brakes on one side of the vehicle.
A larger reversing camera display, dual side load doors and a rear liftgate door are other new additions available on the Transit Custom.
The standard multi-function display on the 2.0-litre Transit and Transit Custom has also been upgraded to a 4.0-inch colour screen, while the Transit Custom now comes standard with full wheel covers.
Transit buyers will also have more exterior colour options to choose from, with more than 100 hues on offer to help owners stand out from the crowd.
2017 Ford Transit Custom pricing (MLP):
Transit Custom 290S FWD, 2.0L EcoBlue 6-spd manual, $39,690
Transit Custom 290S FWD, 2.0L EcoBlue 6-spd auto, $42,440
Transit Custom 340L FWD, 2.0L EcoBlue 6-spd manual, $41,690
Transit Custom 340L FWD, 2.0L EcoBlue 6-spd auto, $44,440
2017 Ford Transit pricing (MLP):
Transit 350L RWD, 2.2L diesel 6-spd manual, $47,680
Transit 350L FWD, 2.0L EcoBlue 6-spd auto, $51,380
Transit 350E RWD, 2.2L diesel 6-spd manual, $51,180
Transit 470E RWD, 2.2L diesel 6-spd manual, $54,180
Transit Single Cab Chassis 470E RWD, 2.2L diesel 6-spd manual, $49,180
Transit Double Cab Chassis 470E RWD, 2.2L diesel 6-spd manual, $52,680
Transit Bus 410L RWD, 2.2L diesel 6-spd manual, $57,680
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Written byTrucksales Staff
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