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The Ford Transit Custom Trail review has been making waves in the mid-size van market, capturing the attention of businesses and adventurers alike. This rugged variant of the popular Transit Custom line boasts enhanced capabilities and a bold design, setting it apart from its standard counterparts. As the demand for versatile commercial vehicles grows, the Transit Custom Trail has positioned itself as a formidable contender in a competitive field. See Ford Transit Trail
In this comprehensive review, we’ll examine how the Ford Transit Custom Trail Review stacks up against its rivals. We’ll explore its key features, performance, and practicality, comparing it to other leading vans in the segment. From its robust powertrain to its off-road prowess and interior comfort, we’ll break down what makes the Transit Custom Trail unique and assess whether it truly reigns supreme in the world of mid-size vans. Source
Transit Custom Trail Review
The Ford Custom Leasing Trail stands out as a rugged and capable variant in the mid-size van segment. This vehicle combines the practicality of a standard van with the robust appeal of a pick-up truck, making it an ideal choice for businesses and adventurers who require a versatile commercial vehicle that can handle challenging conditions.
What Makes the Transit Custom Trail Stand Out?
The Ford Transit Custom Trail Review offers a range of features that set it apart from its standard counterparts. It comes equipped with a mechanical Limited-Slip Differential (mLSD) on manual transmission models, enhancing traction in slippery conditions. This is the same differential used in Ford’s Focus ST and Fiesta ST hot hatchbacks, designed to send power to the front wheel with the most grip. People Also Look at the Ford Transit Custom Sport maybe for the stripes! See all our Ford Vans For Sale
For those who need even more capability, the Trail offers optional all-season tires, further improving its performance in various weather conditions. The vehicle also includes front and rear parking sensors, a heated windscreen, and air conditioning as standard equipment. The interior boasts full-leather seats with unique Trail branding, adding a touch of luxury to this rugged van. See all our Ford Van Leasing deals.
One of the Trail’s standout features is its compatibility with Ford’s FordPass Pro app. This smartphone application allows users to remotely access various vehicle functions, enhancing convenience and connectivity. However, it’s worth noting that this feature requires the FordPass Connect modem, which is connected at the time of vehicle delivery. See all our Ford Transit Custom Vans For Sale
Design Elements Ford Transit Custom Trail Review
The Ford Transit Custom Trail Review exterior design takes inspiration from Ford’s F-150 and Ranger Raptor pick-up trucks, giving it a bold and assertive appearance. The front grille has been redesigned with a matt gray honeycomb pattern, featuring large Ford lettering across it. This striking grille, combined with a skid plate, gives the Trail a distinctive and rugged face. See Ford Transit Custom Trail 2024
The lower half of the front bumper, along with the wheelarches and sills, is adorned with matt black body cladding, enhancing the van’s tough appearance. The doors feature Trail lettering, further emphasizing its unique identity within the Transit Custom range. The vehicle rides on black 16-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels, inspired by those found on the Ford Ranger Raptor.
Adding to its robust exterior are auto power-foldable, heated, and adjustable door mirrors, which combine functionality with durability. The Trail also offers optional 17-inch black alloy wheels for those seeking an even more imposing stance.
Engine Options Ford Transit Custom Trail Review
The Transit Custom double cab Trail is available with a choice of powerful EcoBlue diesel engines. Buyers can opt for either a 130 PS (128 bhp) or a more potent 170 PS (168 bhp) variant. For those seeking improved efficiency, Ford offers its mHEV 48v mild hybrid system with the more powerful engine option.
It’s important to note that all Trail models come with a six-speed manual gearbox, as the mLSD differential is not compatible with Ford’s automatic transmission. This configuration ensures that drivers can make the most of the Trail’s enhanced traction capabilities. See New Ford Transit Custom Trail 2025
In terms of performance, the Transit Custom Trail, particularly in its more powerful configuration, offers ample power for most driving situations. The mLSD helps the van get off the line easily, with minimal tire scrabbling and solid steering feel as power is fed to the front wheels. Once on the move, the Trail maintains the excellent handling and comfortable ride that the Transit Custom range is known for, providing drivers with a commanding view of their surroundings. See Towing a Trailer with a Van: The Definite Guide
Despite its enhanced capabilities and rugged design, the Transit Custom Trail maintains the same payload capacity, cargo volumes, and fuel economy as the standard van. This means businesses can enjoy the added benefits of the Trail version without compromising on practicality or efficiency. See Ford Transit Custom Sport For Sale
Competitors in the Mid-Size Van Segment
The mid-size van segment is highly competitive, with several manufacturers vying for market share. While the Ford Transit Custom has established itself as a formidable contender, it faces stiff competition from other well-regarded brands. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key competitors in this segment. See Ford Transit Custom Sport Lease
Volkswagen Transporter Ford Transit Custom Trail Review
The Volkswagen Transporter stands out as an iconic vehicle in the mid-size van market. With a legacy dating back to 1948 and over 12 million units sold, it has earned its place as the longest-running and best-selling van of all time. The current sixth-generation model, introduced in 2015, continues to uphold the Transporter’s reputation for quality and reliability. See Man Tipper 4×4
One of the Transporter’s strengths lies in its engine lineup. It offers a comprehensive range of options, including four diesel power ratings on the 2.0 TDI engine (83bhp, 101bhp, 148bhp, and 201bhp) and two outputs on the 2.0 TSI petrol unit (148bhp and 201bhp). This variety allows customers to choose the perfect balance of power and efficiency for their needs. See 4×4 Sales Soar thanks to Flooding
The Transporter also impresses with its build quality and refinement. It has the best fit-and-finish in its class and handles bumps and divots on the road exceptionally well. However, its raised position means it doesn’t feel quite as connected to the road as some of its competitors, and body roll is more noticeable.
One significant advantage of the Volkswagen Transporter is its strong residual value, which contributes significantly to lower total life costs. This makes it an attractive option for businesses looking for a long-term investment.
Mercedes-Benz Vito Ford Transit Custom Trail Review
The Mercedes-Benz Vito, while the youngest in this group, has quickly established itself as a strong competitor since its introduction in 1996. The current third-generation model, launched in 2014, offers a blend of practicality and premium features that have made it popular among businesses and tradespeople alike.
The Vito stands out with its lower profile compared to its competitors, which contributes to its excellent driving characteristics. It boasts a low center of gravity, minimal body roll, and direct steering, making it one of the most enjoyable vans to drive in its class. However, it’s worth noting that the Vito’s ride quality can be somewhat firm, with shock absorbers that don’t always cushion bumps and potholes effectively.
Under the hood, the Vito offers a choice between a 1.6-liter diesel engine from Renault (for front-wheel-drive models) and Mercedes’ own 2.1-liter diesel (for rear-wheel-drive variants). The 2.1-liter engine, available with a 7-speed automatic transmission, provides outputs ranging from 136bhp to 190bhp, catering to various power requirements.
One of the Vito’s strengths is its fuel efficiency. It boasts the best average fuel economy for standard variants in its class, with figures ranging between 44.1mpg and 47.1mpg. This can translate to significant savings for businesses with high mileage requirements.
Vauxhall Vivaro vs Ford Transit Custom Trail Review
The Vauxhall Vivaro holds a unique position in the UK market as one of the few commercial vehicles manufactured domestically. The latest generation of the Vivaro, now part of the Stellantis Group, has been well-received by both loyal customers and those new to the brand.
One of the Vivaro’s standout features is its versatility. It’s available in various configurations, including a standard panel van and a multi-purpose ‘Doublecab’ version for additional passenger capacity. The Vivaro also offers innovative features like collapsible rear seats that can be folded against the front seats, allowing for increased load space when not in use.
In terms of powertrains, the Vivaro offers a range of efficient diesel engines. However, it’s the Vivaro Electric that has been garnering significant attention. This all-electric variant has won several industry awards for achieving an excellent balance between payload capacity and driving range. With the larger 75kWh battery pack, the Vivaro Electric can achieve an official WLTP Combined cycle range of up to 205 miles, making it a viable option for businesses looking to transition to electric vehicles.
The Vivaro also scores points for practicality, with features like dual side loading doors as standard and a choice of twin rear doors or an optional tailgate. Its payload capacity is impressive, particularly for the electric version, which can carry between 1000kg and 1226kg despite the added weight of the battery pack.
Performance and Handling
Engine Power
The Ford Transit Custom Trail offers a range of powerful EcoBlue diesel engines. Buyers can choose between a 130 PS (128 bhp) or a more potent 170 PS (168 bhp) variant. For those seeking improved efficiency, Ford provides its mHEV 48v mild hybrid system with the more powerful engine option. This system uses new 48v electric technology and can be fitted to all EcoBlue engines, although in the UK it’s initially available only with the 130hp engine.
The Transit Custom Trail’s engines deliver impressive performance, with all power options providing 430Nm of torque available immediately. This results in brisk acceleration from a standstill, making the van responsive and capable in various driving conditions. The 2.0-liter EcoBlue engines have undergone updates, gaining new turbochargers, pistons, injectors, and an on-demand oil pump. These improvements have enhanced real-world fuel economy by approximately 7%.
Fuel Efficiency Ford Transit Custom Trail Review
While the Transit Custom Trail maintains the same fuel economy as the standard van, it offers competitive efficiency for its class. The EcoBlue Hybrid (mHEV) version has the potential to further improve fuel consumption, particularly in urban driving scenarios. This mild hybrid system recoups and stores energy during braking, which is then used to assist the vehicle while driving, making it more efficient and reducing fuel consumption around town.
General fuel economy for the Transit Custom is reasonable, with most users experiencing mid-30s mpg in real-world driving conditions. However, it’s worth noting that fuel efficiency can vary significantly depending on driving style, journey type, and payload. The Transit Custom’s fuel economy, while competitive, may not be at the top of the medium van sector.
Driving Experience Ford Transit Custom Trail Review
The Ford Transit Custom Trail has earned a reputation for its excellent driving dynamics. It combines the practicality of a van with handling characteristics reminiscent of Ford’s passenger cars. The van features quick, accurate steering, a snappy gearshift, and a punchy turbodiesel engine, which help drivers quickly forget about its bulk.
One of the Transit Custom Trail’s standout features is its mechanical Limited-Slip Differential (mLSD) on manual transmission models. This differential, also used in Ford’s Focus ST and Fiesta ST hot hatchbacks, enhances traction in slippery conditions by sending power to the front wheel with the most grip. This feature significantly improves the van’s handling and stability, particularly in challenging driving conditions.
The Transit Custom Trail’s suspension does an excellent job of ironing out bumps, delivering exceptional comfort for a commercial vehicle. Engine, road, and wind noise are well suppressed, especially at higher speeds. The door mirrors, despite their large size, are sculpted to minimize wind noise.
The van’s handling is surprisingly agile for its size. It can change direction quickly, which could be a consideration when carrying fragile payloads. Combined with a tight turning circle, this makes the Transit Custom Trail well-suited to urban driving. When venturing onto country roads, drivers will appreciate how Ford’s typically excellent driving dynamics have been translated into this van.
Interior Comfort and Practicality Ford Transit Custom Trail
The Ford Transit Custom Trail offers a blend of comfort, versatility, and practicality that makes it an excellent choice for both business and family use. Its interior design and features cater to a wide range of needs, from work-related tasks to leisure activities.
Seating Configuration
The Transit Custom Trail provides flexible seating options to suit various requirements. The standard configuration accommodates two or three people up front, offering ample space for driver and passengers. For those needing additional seating capacity, the Double Cab-in-Van variant features a second row of seats, allowing for up to three extra passengers. This configuration maintains a fixed bulkhead separating passengers from the loadspace, ensuring maximum cabin comfort and load capacity.
For even greater versatility, the MultiCab version offers comfortable second-row seating while still providing an impressive 3,450 mm loadspace in one line. This configuration can carry up to five people with plenty of room for luggage, making it ideal for businesses that require both passenger and cargo transport.
The Kombi variant takes flexibility a step further, offering seating for up to nine people with various cargo configurations. Its low-step entrance makes it user-friendly for both business and leisure purposes.
Cargo Space Ford Transit Custom Trail
The Transit Custom Trail excels in cargo capacity, offering a range of options to suit different needs. The panel van variant provides between 6.0 to 8.3 cubic meters of loadspace, depending on the chosen wheelbase (long L2 or short L1) and roof height (low or high). This spacious interior makes it an excellent choice for businesses requiring substantial cargo capacity. See Ford Transit Custom Sport
For the Double Cab-in-Van models, the second row of seats reduces storage to 3.5 cubic meters for the L1 model and 4.3 cubic meters for the L2. Despite this reduction, these variants still offer significant cargo space while accommodating additional passengers. See Ford Transit Custom 4×4
The loadspace is equipped with six tie-down hooks, allowing for secure fastening of cargo using bungee cords or other restraints. This feature is particularly useful for preventing items from shifting during transport, ensuring the safety of both cargo and passengers. See Ford Transit Custom Hybrid
Tech Features Ford Transit Custom Trail Review
The Transit Custom Trail incorporates several technological advancements to enhance comfort, convenience, and productivity. The van comes equipped with Ford’s SYNC 4 system, which delivers enhanced connectivity powered by a new 5G modem. This system offers seamless smartphone integration, a 13-inch touchscreen, and conversational voice recognition as standard features.
One innovative feature is the steering wheel tilt function, which allows the creation of an angled desk when parked. This feature is ideal for mounting a laptop or enjoying a meal, effectively transforming the van into a mobile office.
The van also includes a digital rear-view camera as standard in the Trail model. This system uses a high-definition screen that looks identical to a standard rear-view mirror but provides a clearer and wider view of the road behind. The camera automatically adjusts to light conditions, enhancing visibility in various driving situations. See FOrd Transit Custom Hybrid
For navigation and entertainment, the Transit Custom offers an optional ICE Feature Pack 25. This package includes an eight-inch color touchscreen with digital radio, navigation, and voice control. It also supports Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calls and provides access to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto when a smartphone is connected via USB.
The FordPass Connect feature enables owners and fleet managers to monitor their vehicles through a dedicated app. This system offers benefits such as immediate alerts for break-ins, remote locking of rear doors, and the ability to schedule servicing when required.
These tech features, combined with the van’s spacious and versatile interior, make the Ford Transit Custom Trail a highly practical and comfortable vehicle for a wide range of uses, from daily business operations to family adventures.
Off-Road Capabilities
The Ford Transit Custom Trail has been designed to operate in tougher working environments, offering enhanced capabilities for those who need to venture off the beaten path. While it may not be a full-fledged off-road vehicle, it provides features that significantly improve its performance on challenging terrains.
Limited-Slip Differential Ford Transit Custom Trail Review
One of the key features that sets the Transit Custom Trail apart is its mechanical limited-slip differential (mLSD). Developed in partnership with driveline technology specialists Quaife, this system automatically transfers engine torque in low grip conditions to the wheel with the most traction. This allows the van to more comfortably tackle unpaved roads, gravel tracks, and challenging surfaces.
The mLSD works by introducing a series of clutch plates and disks behind the differential side gears. This setup delivers as much torque as possible to each axle shaft when traction at the rear wheels is not equal. The system requires a friction modifier that must be installed with the axle lubricant for the plates and disks to function properly.
In practical terms, the mLSD significantly reduces wheelspin on low-friction surfaces. When tested on a special split-grip surface simulating ice on one side and regular tarmac on the other, the Trail pulled away quickly, smoothly, and without issue. Unlike electronic equivalents that can cause a vehicle to be pulled to the side before straightening up, the Transit Custom Trail remained straight and true, regardless of how aggressively it was driven.
Ground Clearance
While the Transit Custom Trail offers improved traction, it’s important to note that its ground clearance remains similar to the standard model. The addition of larger tires only provides a marginal increase of about 1 to 2 inches in ground clearance. This means that while the van can handle moderately challenging terrains, it’s not designed for extreme off-road conditions.
The overall height of the vehicle, rather than its ground clearance, can sometimes be a limiting factor when venturing off-road. Users have reported encountering low-hanging branches more frequently than ground clearance issues when driving through forested areas. This is an important consideration for those planning to use the Transit Custom Trail for camping or outdoor activities.
Traction Control
In addition to the mLSD, the Transit Custom Trail features a recalibrated Electronic Stability Control system. This has been specifically tuned to work in harmony with the mLSD, further enhancing the van’s ability to maintain traction in difficult driving conditions.
The traction control system continually monitors grip levels and automatically distributes torque to the wheels with the most traction. This feature is particularly useful when navigating slippery surfaces such as mud, snow, or wet grass.
While the Transit Custom Trail doesn’t offer all-wheel drive like its larger sibling, the full-size Transit Trail, the combination of the mLSD and enhanced traction control system provides a significant improvement in off-road capability. It’s well-suited for tackling gravel-covered sites, muddy yards, and damp grassy fields without fear.
However, it’s important to recognize the limitations of the Transit Custom Trail. It’s designed for occasional jaunts off the tarmac rather than being used as a dedicated off-road or farm vehicle. The lack of a raised ride height, chunky off-road tires, and a four-wheel-drive system means its outright off-road ability is limited compared to purpose-built off-road vehicles.
Conclusion Ford Transit Custom Trail Review
The Ford Transit Custom Trail emerges as a robust contender in the mid-size van segment, offering a blend of practicality, comfort, and enhanced capabilities. Its mechanical limited-slip differential gives it an edge in challenging terrains, while the spacious interior and advanced tech features cater to both business and leisure needs. The van’s strong performance, coupled with its fuel efficiency and refined driving experience, positions it as a versatile choice for a wide range of users.
When compared to its rivals like the Volkswagen Transporter, Mercedes-Benz Vito, and Vauxhall Vivaro, the Ford Transit Custom Trail Review holds its own with its unique combination of features. While each competitor has its strengths, the Trail’s off-road prowess, coupled with its well-rounded package of comfort, technology, and practicality, makes it a compelling option in the market. To sum up, the Ford Transit Custom Trail Review proves to be a capable and versatile van that meets the diverse needs of modern businesses and adventurers alike.
FAQs Ford Transit Custom Trail Review
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