CAR REVIEW JASON MARTIN
NEW TRANSIT CUSTOM SPORT ADDS DYNAMIC FLAIR TO FORD ’ S ACCLAIMED VAN RANGE
New Transit Custom Sport adds design and dynamic flair to Ford ’ s highly acclaimed light commercial van range – winner of the 2024 International Van of the Year award . Offered in short wheelbase configuration , the Sport has several racy , eye-catching exterior changes , a unique interior trim and top-notch technology , convenience and safety while retaining Transit Custom ’ s impressive load-carrying capabilities . Powered by an uprated version of Ford ’ s 2.0-litre Single Turbo EcoBlue four-cylinder diesel engine producing 125kW and 390Nm . Standard eightspeed automatic transmission , plus five selectable Drive Modes : Normal , Eco , Slippery , Tow / Haul and Sport
Ford South Africa is taking the next step in expanding its internationally acclaimed all-new Transit Custom range with the launch of the exciting Sport short wheelbase van . Along with its proven workhorse and load-hauling capabilities , the Sport adds both design and dynamic flair to the Transit Custom line-up .
“ The all-new Transit Custom introduced new levels of comfort , safety , technology and versatility to the van segment when it went on sale earlier this year . We are further expanding its appeal with the addition of the Sport version , which is a unique offering in the market that enables customers to stand out from the typical ‘ white van ’ crowd ,” says Sunil Sewmohan Executive Director , Product Marketing Ford South Africa .
The Transit Custom is Europe ’ s bestselling one-ton van and five-time winner of the International Van of the Year , including claiming the 2024 title with this all-new model .
“ Transit Custom Sport buyers are typically sole traders or owner-operators , as well as customers looking for an exceptionally spacious and practical vehicle to suit their adventurous and lifestyle-oriented requirements ,” adds Sewmohan .
Emphasising its more overt and dynamic character , the Transit Custom Sport is exclusively available in short wheelbase configuration and is distinguished from the existing commercial-oriented long wheelbase Base model through several eye-catching exterior changes . This includes a sport body kit , honeycomb sport grille , rear spoiler and distinctive 17-inch multi-spoke matte black alloy wheels fitted with 215 / 60 R17 tyres . This is complemented by dual racing stripes that extend from the front bumper over the bonnet , along the full extent of the roof and down the rear twin barn doors . Additionally , there are sport side decals that boldly underline that this is no garden-variety delivery van .
The upmarket and sophisticated appearance is further emboldened by the advanced LED headlights with signature LED daytime running lights and automatic high beam control , as well as LED taillights .
INTERIOR The Transit Custom offers an entirely new level of interior design , features , technology , safety and practicality for the van segment . The benchmark attributes are given a racier theme in the cabin of the Sport derivative , most notably thanks to the addition of sport trim with blue accent stripes for the seats , matched to premium piano black trim surrounding the multi-function display and centre console .
The driver ’ s seat benefits from 6-way power adjustment , including for lumbar support , while the passenger seat has 4-way manual adjustment . Furthermore ,
aBr WORDS IN ACTION 40 JANUARY • FEBRUARY • MARCH 2025