SECTOR: Heavy van   PRICE: TBA   FUEL: 6.4l/100km   CO2: 169g/km

Ford has sold over seven million Transit models since the van was launched in 1965 and the van’s popularity is likely to be increased by the launch of the latest heavy Transit model. Its greater popularity is partly inevitable because this model will be sold in North America, the first time that Ford has sold a Transit model there. This model will replace the long-running E Series in the US and Canada.

Ford says that model-for-model, load volume has been increased by around 10% compared with the outgoing Transit. This has been achieved partly by introducing more vertical body sides on the latest model. As an example the L2 Transit will provide 11.2m3 compared with 10.3m3 for the outgoing model. The L2 model can accommodate four Euro pallets and offers a 3,000mm long load floor. Gross weight options extend up to 4,700kg, while the largest “Jumbo” Transit offers 15.1m3 of load space.

Van models will be joined by other variants in Q4 2014. These will include the double-cab in van model, Kombi, Kombi van, chassis cab L5 and double chassis cab.

Inside, drivers will welcome the more spacious cab. A full height steel bulkhead is standard equipment for Europe. Ford says there is more shoulder

room, headroom and that visibility is improved. The latest Transit gets a reach and rake adjustable steering column for the first time, helping to make drivers more comfortable behind the wheel. Ford has followed Renault and Opel/Vauxhall in providing a large storage compartment underneath the double passenger seat.

Power comes from the existing Transit 2.2-litre diesel engine driving either the front or rear wheels through a six-speed gearbox. As before there is also an all-wheel-drive model. Power options are 100hp, 125hp or 155hp, offering a higher power output than the outgoing model. There are also a number of ECOnetic variants, fitted with Stop/Start as standard and offered with an optional 100km/h speed limiter. L2H2 ECOnetic vans offer consumption of 6.4l/100km on the EU combined cycle and 169g/km of CO2 emissions.

There is no doubt that driver comfort is improved by the reach and rake adjustable steering wheel. The cab feels larger than before, while the dashboard layout is simpler, bringing it into line with the latest generation of Ford car models. Drivers who spend all day in the cab will also appreciate the new storage space allowing objects to be stored out of sight in the cab.

Ford’s claim of better visibility is justified too. The Transit comes with larger door mirrors incorporating adjustable wide angle lower sections which help to improve visibility around the vehicle.

The engine seemed quieter than before both round town and on the open road. We drove part-loaded vans on the launch, carrying around 450kg and performance from the 125hp and 155hp engines seemed adequate.

First impressions are that Ford has delivered. The new Transit is a better drive, offers more space for driver and load and rivals the best in class for all-round ability.

Verdict:

The new Transit offers welcome improvements over its predecessor. It easily competes with its class-leading rivals. A fleet favourite?