New Transit Trail and Transit Custom Trail models have been designed specifically to operate in tougher working environments
FORD has announced new rough-road-capable Trail and Active variants for the Transit and Tourneo ranges, available to order now for delivery in late summer.
The new Transit Trail and Transit Custom Trail models have been designed specifically to operate in tougher working environments, with the enhanced traction of a new mechanical limited-slip differential (mLSD) on front-wheel drive Transit and Transit Custom variants, and Intelligent All-Wheel Drive on Transit.
Exclusive exterior and interior upgrades further ensure the Transit Trail and Transit Custom Trail are equipped to deliver comfort and capability in challenging conditions without compromising practicality.
New Active variants of the Transit Custom and Tourneo Custom support the multi-activity lifestyles of private and business customers with additional body cladding and the option of an mLSD for enhanced traction on loose, slippery or soft surfaces. An SUV-inspired exterior adds visual appeal as well as boosting practicality off the beaten track.
‘The Active and Trail models demonstrate how versatile and capable the Transit range can be,’ said Hans Schep, general manager, Commercial Vehicles, Ford of Europe. ‘From businesses that operate off the beaten track to families who want a vehicle as adventurous as they are, there is a Transit to suit every need.’
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. More details will be provided closer to launch.
The new Ford Transit Trail and Transit Custom Trail’s rugged looks are supported by enhanced capability for owners and operators whose work takes them to challenging terrain away from normal roads.
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 for added versatility.
A choice of drivetrains offers enhanced traction for difficult conditions. Front-wheel-drive Transit and Transit Custom Trail models are fitted with an mLSD as standard, and Transit Trail is available with Intelligent All-Wheel Drive for progress in more challenging terrain and weather conditions.
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. The vehicle’s Electronic Stability Control system has also been recalibrated to harmonise with the mLSD. The same technology has previously been used to enhance the traction and handling characteristics of Ford Performance models including the Focus RS, Fiesta ST and Focus ST, and has no impact on CO2 emissions or fuel efficiency.
Transit Trail is also available with Intelligent All-Wheel Drive for optimised traction off-road. The technology enhances the base rear-wheel drive configuration by sending up to 50 per cent of engine torque to the front axle based on available grip in response to changing road surfaces and driver inputs.
Transit Trail’s Intelligent All-Wheel Drive technology is also supported by additional ‘Slippery’ and ‘Mud/Rut’ selectable drive modes, designed to improve performance and driver confidence across a variety of driving scenarios. These are easily selected using the Drive Mode controller on the dashboard. Intelligent All-Wheel Drive also features AWD Lock mode to split torque 50:50 between front and rear axles on extreme low-grip surfaces. The system does not compromise the load volume or dimensions of the Transit Trail compared with rear-wheel drive equivalents.
Trail models also benefit from an enhanced interior specification, with full leather seating as standard bringing additional luxury, durability and wipe-clean flexibility to the cabin. Air conditioning, power-foldable door mirrors and auto lighting are also standard, as is Ford’s Quickclear heated windscreen, which allows an easy departure in freezing conditions.
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 advanced 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel engine with a choice of 130PS, 170PS and 185PS power outputs.
In addition, Transit Custom Trail models offer the efficiency benefits of electrified powertrains with Ford’s unique-in-segment 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.