? Although the Econoline van that?s been in production for a staggering 51 years will stick around for a few more, Ford unveiled its replacement today: the full size global Transit.
The new vans are a far different animal than the outgoing models, and take their cues from the European Ford Transit that?s served overseas for decades. The Transit moves away from body-on-frame construction to a unitized body made of boron steel for durability and lighter weight. It will be available in a wide range of configurations. You can mix and match between two wheelbases, three roof heights, an extra-long tail option, and chassis cab.
The smallest model mimics the current Econoline in size, but these Ford get seriously big from there. In the Transit Jumbo (a name so great we had to mention it), interior volume is roughly double the standard Transit's 248.3 cubic feet at a staggering 496 cubic feet. Passenger seating goes from just two up front to a whopping fifteen-passenger version.?
Powertrain options are significantly different. Gone are the two V-8 and V-10. Instead the three engines will include the base 3.7-liter V-6 and 3.5-liter twin turbo V-6 Ecoboost, both fitted to the F150 already, and an inline five-cylinder turbo diesel. Although Ford has not released the specs, in other markets that diesel makes 175 hp and a whopping 397 lb-ft of torque. There?s also a CNG prep package. All engines are backed by the same six-speed automatic found in the F-series pickups and drive the rear axle in single or dual rear-wheel setups.?
? The interior appointments are a sea change compared to the Econoline. The styling, materials, and seating choices are reminiscent of the Fusion or Fiesta?car-like and comfortable, and much different than the gruff, hard cabin of old. Since these vehicles are mostly used as work vans, work options are available including Ford Work Solutions, Crew Chief and other productivity software. The van also gets dragged into the modern era with a full compliment of airbags all around, trailer sway control, and a curve control braking system. ?
?If you need a huge van or a small apartment in Manhattan, look for the Transit to start hitting dealerships toward the end of next year. Expect more specific details about powertrain and fuel economy in the spring.
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