Ford Transit Custom MK1 Facelift 2018-2023 Van
Accessories & Parts
The updated facelift on the
popular choice of medium van, the Ford Transit Custom.
Bringing new features and styling to a platform that had
already sold in huge numbers to those in the trade, and
others that wanted a vehicle to convert into
campervans, the facelift model brought a new and sleek
design to help modernise its looks, whilst also
modernising the technical side too.
Improvements from the last generation of engines
proved substantial, bringing a welcomed increase fuel
economy and reliability, including the option for plug in
hybrid variants too. The Econetic engine is officially
claimed to nearly hit 50mpg!
What changed
between the first Transit Custom and the facelift?
The silhouette and styling of the facelift models is
quite clearly not dissimilar to the original, but with
subtle key differences, aiming for it to sit within the
style of the 2018 Ford range vehicles.
The
whole front end has been redesigned with slimmer
headlights, matching bonnet, and a new meaner face
thanks to its dramatic new grille. As you may have
noticed, not huge amounts have changed to the rear of
the vehicle which is very important if you’re needing to
load wide items between the wheel arches as it keeps
the maximum loading width consistent. There will be a
high share of customers that use their Transit Custom
for trade purposes, and it’s reasonable to expect that a
fair few will need to carry large or heavy items, so
loading width can be a deciding factor in choosing a van.
Width is essential for campervans too, but wide doors
allow easy access without needing to go for an overall
wide van, leaving you with a van that’s easier to
manoeuvre in car parks and urban environments.
On the interior you’ll find a brand new dashboard,
taking inspiration from the brand’s car range around
2018, allowing for new levels of Bluetooth connectivity
and top spec models boasting Apple CarPlay and an 8
inch touchscreen central display, a huge upgrade from
the previous models lacking technology.
Lots
of storage and cupholder areas around the front cabin
mean you’ll have plenty of space to keep essentials,
which is even more imperative if you intend on
converting one into a camper as storage is always in
short supply. More comfortable and ergonomic are a
small touch but cannot be ignored, it shows the
attention to detail Ford paid when upgrading the areas
that make the most difference.
Carrying
capacity is always a detail to pay attention to if you’re
potentially carrying lots of materials, or particularly
heaving items, the maximum payload of this Transit
Custom is 1,450 kilos, which is fantastic given it is only
a medium class van. The pass-through bulkhead is a
nice touch, allowing the capacity to carry long length
items when needed, but can be placed back when not in
use.
This van gives you the capability of
larger vans, without having to deal with the bulk, as it
drives more like a car it’s very civilised and refined,
perfect for those that may use it every day.