Transit Custom Sport Lease Deals

The Ford Transit Custom Sport has been making waves in the commercial vehicle market, offering a blend of style and practicality that’s caught the attention of many businesses and individuals. This sporty version of the popular Transit Custom van has sparked interest in lease options, with many wondering if a transit custom sport lease is worth the extra cost. As companies and entrepreneurs look for vehicles that can handle work demands while making a statement on the road, the Transit Custom Sport has emerged as a compelling choice. Source 

To understand if leasing a Ford Transit Custom Sport makes sense, it’s crucial to examine several factors. This article will delve into what sets the Sport model apart from the standard Transit Custom, explore various leasing options available, and compare costs between different models. It will also assess the vehicle’s performance and practicality, helping readers determine if the premium price tag for a Ford Transit Custom Sport lease aligns with their needs and budget. By the end, readers will have a clear picture of whether this stylish workhorse is a smart investment for their business or personal use. See all Ford Transit Custom for sale

What is the Ford Transit Custom Sport?
The Ford Transit Custom Sport is a premium variant of the popular Transit Custom van, designed to offer a blend of style, performance, and practicality. This model stands out from the standard Transit Custom with its enhanced features and sporty esthetics, catering to businesses and individuals who desire a commercial vehicle that makes a statement on the road. See Ford Transit Custom Lease deals

Key Features
The Transit Custom Sport comes equipped with an array of advanced features that enhance both functionality and comfort. A keyless system allows drivers to start the vehicle without fumbling for keys, as long as the key fob is present. The high-definition Digital Instrument Cluster displays essential driver information using easy-to-understand icons, with the option to prioritize specific data such as navigation commands and vehicle status.

For improved visibility, the van boasts signature LED headlights with an Adaptive Front Lighting System. This system provides optimal lighting in changing conditions, adjusting from well-lit city streets to dark rural areas. A glare-free high beam comes standard on Limited models and above, preventing other road users from being dazzled.

Design Elements
The Transit Custom Sport’s design elements contribute to its distinctive appearance and practical functionality. The flexible dual front passenger seat includes easy-access under-seat storage, spacious enough to accommodate a laptop, files, and other office essentials. This feature transforms the cab into a multifunctional environment suitable for various daily activities, from office admin to taking coffee breaks. See Ford Transit Custom Electric

A tilting steering wheel further enhances the cab’s versatility, allowing drivers to adjust their workspace as needed. The new auto-shifter is column-mounted, providing a clean cabin walkthrough experience. This design choice, coupled with the 8-speed automatic transmission, not only delivers a seamless driving experience but also supports a towing capacity of up to 2,500 kg. See Ford Transit Custom PHEV

Performance Upgrades
The Transit Custom Sport offers several performance upgrades that set it apart from the standard model. It comes with six Drive Modes to choose from: Normal, Eco, Sport, Slippery Road, Tow/Haul, and Trail. Each mode is uniquely tuned to optimize vehicle performance in different conditions, adjusting throttle response, steering, and gear-change behavior accordingly. See Ford Transit Custom Hybrid

For those requiring enhanced traction, the Transit Custom Sport is available with automatic transmission and All-Wheel Drive (AWD). This system is designed to maintain traction in challenging conditions, such as winter weather or poor terrain, while also improving cornering and road holding. For manual transmission models, an Electronic Limited-Slip Differential (eLSD) is available, which automatically transfers engine torque to the wheel with the most traction in low-grip conditions. See All Ford Van Lease deals

Safety has also been a key consideration in the design of the Transit Custom Sport. It offers more airbags as standard than ever before, including a front passenger airbag located in the roof to save space in the instrument panel, rear curtain airbags covering the second row of seats, and side airbags in the back of the front seats for protection during lateral or front-angled collisions. See Ford Transit Custom 4×4

Leasing Options for the Transit Custom Sport
Leasing a Ford Transit Custom Sport offers a cost-efficient alternative to buying, allowing businesses and individuals to enjoy the benefits of a brand-new van without tying up capital in a depreciating asset. The Transit Custom Sport, with its enhanced esthetics and performance features, caters to those seeking a more dynamic and eye-catching commercial vehicle. Several leasing options are available, each tailored to different business needs and financial preferences.

Contract Hire
Business Contract Hire (BCH) is the most popular financing method for the Transit Custom Sport. This option is available to various business types, including sole traders, PLCs, and limited companies. Under a contract hire agreement, the finance provider retains ownership of the vehicle. At the end of the lease term, the van is returned to the leasing provider, and a new lease can be arranged.

Contract hire is particularly appealing to businesses looking to change their vans regularly. Since the finance provider remains the owner, this arrangement eliminates any risk of depreciation and disposal costs for the lessee. It offers fixed monthly payments, making budgeting easier for businesses. Additionally, contract hire provides the flexibility to upgrade to the newest model at the end of the lease term, ensuring access to the most fuel-efficient and technologically advanced vans.

Van Finance Lease
Finance lease is another popular option, especially for limited companies, self-employed individuals, and sole traders leasing a commercial vehicle like the Transit Custom Sport. This method offers two payment structures:

Higher monthly installments throughout the agreement, covering the entire van cost.
Lower monthly payments with a balloon payment at the end of the lease term.
Unlike contract hire, a finance lease requires the lessee to sell the van to a third party at the end of the contract. The lessee receives approximately 98% of the sale proceeds, with a small percentage paid to the finance company. This option provides more flexibility in terms of vehicle disposal but still doesn’t offer ownership.

Lease Purchase
Lease purchase is ideal for organizations aiming to eventually own their Transit Custom Sport. In this arrangement, the van belongs to the company from the start of the lease contract and is registered in the company’s name throughout the agreement. The lessee makes fixed monthly payments towards ownership, with two payment structures available:

Lower monthly payments with a balloon payment at the end of the agreement.
Higher monthly payments spread evenly across the term, eliminating the need for a balloon payment.
Under a lease purchase agreement, the vehicle remains a company asset and appears on the balance sheet, allowing the business to offset the van’s value against taxable profits.

Regardless of the chosen leasing option, the Ford Transit Custom Sport offers several advantages. Its sporty styling kit, including a front lower bumper skirt, side stripes with Transit branding, and body-colored side skirts, enhances its visual appeal. Performance is improved with sport suspension for better handling, while 17-inch alloy wheels complement the sporty esthetics. Interior upgrades include sport seats for improved comfort and support, dual-zone air conditioning for personalized comfort, and a powered front seat for easy adjustment.

By leasing a Transit Custom Sport, businesses can benefit from its impressive features without the long-term commitment of ownership. The vehicle’s strong residual value means lessees can trade it in at the end of the lease term and upgrade to the newest model, ensuring they always have access to the most efficient and technologically advanced van. With various leasing options available, businesses can choose the arrangement that best suits their financial situation and operational needs.

Comparing Costs: Sport vs Standard Transit Custom
When considering a Ford Transit Custom Sport lease, it’s essential to compare the costs with the standard Transit Custom model. This comparison helps businesses and individuals determine if the premium features of the Sport variant justify the additional expense.

Monthly Payments
The monthly payments for a Ford Transit Custom Sport lease tend to be higher than those for the standard model. For example, a Ford Transit Custom 300 L1 Diesel FWD 2.0 EcoBlue 150PS H1 Van Sport costs £345 per month (excluding VAT). In contrast, the standard Transit Custom typically has lower monthly payments due to its more basic features and lower base price.

As the specifications increase, so do the monthly payments. For instance:

Ford Transit Custom 300 L2 Diesel FWD 2.0 EcoBlue 150PS H1 Van Sport Auto: £367 per month (ex VAT)
Ford Transit Custom 320 L1 Diesel AWD 2.0 EcoBlue 170PS H1 Van Sport Auto: £386 per month (ex VAT)
Ford Transit Custom 320 L2 Diesel AWD 2.0 EcoBlue 170PS H1 Van Sport Auto: £392 per month (ex VAT)
These figures illustrate the price range for different configurations of the Sport model, which are generally higher than their standard counterparts.

Initial Rental
The initial rental for a Ford Transit Custom lease varies depending on the model and lease terms. While specific figures for the initial rental aren’t provided in the key points, it’s important to note that the Sport variant typically requires a higher initial rental due to its higher base price.

The base list price (BLP) for the Sport models ranges from £38,800 to £44,250, depending on the configuration. This higher BLP translates to a higher initial rental compared to the standard Transit Custom.

Total Cost of Ownership
To fully understand the financial implications of choosing a Ford Transit Custom Sport over the standard model, it’s crucial to consider the total cost of ownership. This includes factors such as fuel efficiency, maintenance costs, and depreciation.

Fuel Efficiency: The Ford Transit Custom Sport models have varying fuel efficiency:

300 L1 Diesel FWD: 39.2 MPG
300 L2 Diesel FWD Auto: 36.7 MPG
320 L1 Diesel AWD Auto: 33.6 MPG
320 L2 Diesel AWD Auto: 33.2 MPG
These figures are generally lower than those of the standard Transit Custom, which can achieve up to 40.9 MPG for the 107bhp manual front-wheel drive version.

Maintenance and Depreciation: While specific maintenance costs for the Sport model aren’t provided, it’s worth noting that Ford covers the Transit Custom with a three-year or 60,000-mile warranty, whichever comes first. This warranty is standard across all Transit Custom models, including the Sport variant.

To illustrate the potential total cost of ownership, let’s consider an example based on available data for a standard Transit Custom:

Price: £26,274 (inc VAT)
Fuel cost (over ownership period): £15,689.03
Depreciation: £17,960.74
Service, MOT, and maintenance: £420
VED: £1,040
Insurance: £4,357.52
Total cost of ownership: £65,741.29 (£16,435.32 per year)

While these figures are for a standard model, they provide a baseline for comparison. The Sport variant would likely have higher costs across most categories due to its premium features and higher initial price.

In conclusion, the Ford Transit Custom Sport offers enhanced features and styling but comes at a premium compared to the standard model. Businesses and individuals must weigh the additional costs against the benefits to determine if the Sport variant aligns with their needs and budget.

Performance and Practicality
Engine Options
The Ford Transit Custom offers a range of engine options to suit various needs. The latest models feature a 2.0-liter EcoBlue turbodiesel engine, known internally as the Panther engine. This powerplant comes in four output variants: 105hp, 130hp, 170hp, and 185hp. The 130hp version is the most popular choice among buyers, striking a balance between performance and efficiency.

Compared to its predecessor, the 2.2-liter TDCi engine, the newer 2.0-liter EcoBlue offers improved performance and refinement. It delivers 20% more torque at lower revs, making it easier to move heavy loads. The engine is also quieter and smoother, enhancing overall driving comfort.

For those seeking enhanced fuel efficiency, Ford introduced mild hybrid (mHEV) technology in late 2019. Available as an option on select models, the EcoBlue Hybrid system uses a belt-driven integrated starter-generator and a small lithium-ion battery to improve fuel economy, particularly in urban driving conditions.

Payload Capacity
The Transit Custom excels in load capacity and ease of loading, two crucial factors for van buyers. The short-wheelbase (L1) model can accommodate three Euro pallets loaded to 1.0 meter in height, a unique feature at its launch in 2012.

Load volumes range from 5.8m³ to 6.8m³, depending on the body length. The Transit Custom offers a wide range of gross vehicle weights (GVW), from 2.5 tons in 250 series models to 3.4 tons in 340 series models. This variety allows buyers to choose a van that best suits their payload requirements.

Maximum payload ratings for the Transit Custom are among the best in the medium van sector, ranging from just under 700kg to nearly 1,500kg. The exact payload capacity varies depending on factors such as engine type, trim level, fitted equipment, and body size. It’s worth noting that the EcoBlue Hybrid models have a slightly reduced payload (about 27kg less) due to the additional hybrid technology components.

Fuel Efficiency
Fuel economy in the Transit Custom is generally decent, though not class-leading. Real-world fuel consumption typically ranges from mid-30s to low 40s mpg, depending on driving style, load, and journey type. The introduction of the EcoBlue Hybrid system aims to improve these figures, with Ford claiming fuel savings of up to 8% in urban driving scenarios.

For those prioritizing fuel efficiency, Ford offers the Transit Custom Econetic variant. This model features a special engine calibration, low rolling resistance tires, and an acceleration management system to maximize fuel savings. The Econetic version boasts a claimed fuel economy of 49.6 mpg, significantly higher than standard models.

It’s important to note that Euro 6 compliant 2.0-liter EcoBlue Transit Customs require AdBlue, which needs refilling approximately every 5,000 miles. This additional maintenance requirement should be factored into running costs.

In real-world conditions, as reported by users, fuel economy varies considerably:

2.0L L4 Diesel models average 30.4 mpg
2.2L L4 Diesel variants achieve around 24.4 mpg
Overall, across various engine types, the average fuel economy ranges from 22.3 to 29.3 mpg
These figures demonstrate that while the Transit Custom offers improved efficiency over its predecessors, actual fuel consumption can vary significantly based on specific use cases and driving conditions.

Is the Premium Worth It?
The Ford Transit Custom Sport offers a range of premium features that set it apart from the standard model. To determine if the additional cost is justified, it’s essential to consider the target audience, business benefits, and resale value.

Target Audience
The Ford Transit Custom Sport caters to businesses and individuals seeking a commercial vehicle that combines practicality with style. It’s particularly appealing to those who want to make a statement on the road while maintaining the functionality of a work van. The Sport variant is ideal for:

Trades professionals who want to project a more upscale image
Small business owners who use their van for both work and personal use
Companies that prioritize employee satisfaction and want to provide a more comfortable work vehicle
Individuals looking for a versatile vehicle that can handle both work and family needs
Business Benefits
Investing in a Ford Transit Custom Sport lease can offer several advantages for businesses:

Enhanced Brand Image: The Sport’s stylish appearance can help businesses project a more professional and successful image to clients.

Improved Comfort and Productivity: With features like sport seats and dual-zone air conditioning, employees may experience increased comfort, potentially leading to higher productivity.

Versatility: The Transit Custom Sport‘s combination of style and practicality makes it suitable for various business needs, from carrying cargo to transporting clients.

Fuel Efficiency: While not class-leading, the Transit Custom Sport offers decent fuel economy, especially with the EcoBlue Hybrid option, which can lead to cost savings over time.

Advanced Technology: Features like the FordPass Pro app provide real-time updates on vehicle status, enhancing fleet management capabilities.

Safety Features: The van’s advanced safety technology, including Pre-Collision Assist and Load Adaptive Control, can help reduce the risk of accidents and potentially lower insurance costs.

Resale Value
The resale value of a vehicle is a crucial factor to consider when assessing the overall cost of ownership. The Ford Transit Custom, including the Sport variant, has demonstrated strong resale value in the market:

Popularity: As the UK’s best-selling van, the Transit Custom has a high demand in the used market, which helps maintain its value.

Brand Reputation: Ford’s reputation for reliability and quality contributes to the van’s strong resale value.

Premium Features: The Sport model’s additional features and styling elements may appeal to used buyers, potentially commanding a higher resale price compared to standard models.

Used Price Range: According to available data, used prices for the Ford Transit Custom range from £32,450 to £67,320, depending on the specific model and features.

While the initial cost of a Ford Transit Custom Sport lease may be higher than the standard model, the premium features, business benefits, and potential for strong resale value can make it a worthwhile investment for the right audience. Businesses should carefully consider their specific needs, budget, and long-term goals when deciding if the premium is justified for their operations.

Conclusion
The Ford Transit Custom Sport offers a compelling blend of style, functionality, and performance for businesses and individuals seeking a premium commercial vehicle. Its enhanced features, including sporty esthetics, advanced technology, and improved comfort, have a significant impact on both brand image and employee satisfaction. While the higher cost of leasing or purchasing the Sport variant may initially give pause, the potential benefits in terms of productivity, versatility, and strong resale value make it a worthwhile consideration for many.

In the end, the decision to opt for a Ford Transit Custom Sport lease depends on specific business needs, budget constraints, and long-term goals. For those looking to make a statement on the road while maintaining practicality, the Sport model provides an attractive solution. As the commercial vehicle market continues to evolve, the Transit Custom Sport stands out as a forward-thinking option, bridging the gap between work functionality and personal style. Businesses would do well to weigh the initial investment against the potential returns in terms of improved efficiency, employee morale, and overall brand perception.

FAQs
Is leasing a van a financially sound decision?
Leasing a van can be more economical than purchasing one outright, primarily because it usually involves lower monthly payments. This arrangement can help improve cash flow for businesses by spreading the cost over time, rather than requiring a large upfront payment.

What are some known issues with the Ford Transit Custom?
The Ford Transit Custom has several known issues, including problems with the clutch and gearbox, electrical faults, diesel particulate filter complications, turbocharger issues, cooling system concerns, suspension problems, brake issues, and faults with the Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) valve.

What are the drawbacks of owning a Ford Transit?
Some of the common issues associated with the Ford Transit include transmission problems, particularly in earlier models, fuel pump failures which can cause the engine to stall, various electrical issues affecting dashboard instruments and lighting, and wear and tear on the suspension that may necessitate replacement parts.