Launch Overview
Ford today revealed the 2012 Ford Transit Custom at the Commercial Vehicle Show in Birmingham. It’s a new mid-size van that slots between the smaller Transit Connect and the full-size Transit. Production starts later this year in Turkey, with first deliveries across Europe in the autumn.
The Transit Custom focuses on efficiency, flexible load space, and modern safety. Ford is aiming at trades, fleets, and small businesses that need up to 1.5 tonnes of payload without moving to a full-size van.
Powertrain Lineup
The 2012 Transit Custom uses Ford’s updated 2.2-liter Duratorq TDCi diesel engine, available in three power levels:
- 100 PS (74 kW) with 310 Nm torque
- 125 PS (92 kW) with 350 Nm torque
- 155 PS (113 kW) with 385 Nm torque
All engines use a six-speed manual gearbox. Stop-Start technology is standard on many models. Ford claims CO₂ emissions from 174 g/km, making it one of the most efficient vans in its class.
Dimensions and Cargo Space
The Transit Custom launches in short- and long-wheelbase versions, both with the same roof height for now.
Load area measurements:
| Body Style | Height | Width | Length | Volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Short van | 1,406 mm | 1,775 mm | 2,555 mm | 5.95 m³ |
| Long van | 1,406 mm | 1,775 mm | 2,922 mm | 6.83 m³ |
| Short double-cab-in-van | 1,406 mm | 1,775 mm | 1,577 mm | 3.47 m³ |
| Long double-cab-in-van | 1,406 mm | 1,775 mm | 1,944 mm | 4.35 m³ |
The rear load width fits standard 8×4-ft sheets flat on the floor. The side door opening is large enough for a Euro pallet.
"With a strong new design that has a very modern and dynamic feel, the new Ford Transit Custom looks like no other Transit before it," stated Paul Campbell, Commercial Vehicle Chief Designer, Ford of Europe. "Customers in this sector told us they want a vehicle they can be proud to park in their driveway, and we've delivered."
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Payload Capacity
Ford will offer multiple gross vehicle weight (GVW) ratings from 2.6 to 3.4 tonnes. Payloads range from about 686 kg to nearly 1,459 kg depending on body style and GVW. This covers everything from urban deliveries to heavier trade work.
Safety and Technology
The 2012 Transit Custom is the first vehicle in its segment to offer curtain airbags. Other available features include:
- Lane Keeping Alert
- Ford SYNC voice control and emergency assistance
- Rear-view camera with trailer hitch assist
- Load-adaptive electronic stability control
Ford targets a top Euro NCAP rating for vans, a rarity in this segment.
Interior and Driver Comfort
Cabin design borrows from Ford’s passenger cars, with clear instrumentation and multiple storage areas. The driver’s seat adjusts for height and reach. Dual passenger seating is standard, with a fold-down center seat back for paperwork or laptop use.
Noise insulation and improved suspension tuning should make the Transit Custom quieter and more stable than the current Transit.
Pricing and Availability
Exact pricing will vary by market, but Ford expects starting prices to be competitive in the mid-size van segment. Based on exchange rates, the expected UK starting price of about £18,000 would equal roughly $28,500 USD in 2012.
Order books open this summer. First customer deliveries are planned before year-end.
Market Position
The 2012 Ford Transit Custom gives Ford a sharper entry in the mid-size van segment. Competitors include the Volkswagen Transporter, Mercedes-Benz Vito, and Renault Trafic. Ford is betting on fuel economy, safety features, and smart packaging to win both retail and fleet buyers.
A first glance at the aggressive trapezoidal lower grille and the big swept-back headlamps that flow into the muscular rising shoulder line reveals that this is an entirely different type of Transit. The Ford Transit Custom's sportier stance and more dynamic personality make a big difference.
"By giving the front end a more curved, 3D appearance in plan view, and by subtly enhancing the 'tumblehome' of the upper body sides, we have developed a design that is visually much more compact and elegant, while still retaining excellent room and functionality," Campbell explained.
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Key Facts – 2012 Ford Transit Custom
- Engines: 2.2-liter Duratorq diesel, 100/125/155 PS
- Transmission: Six-speed manual
- Payload: 686–1,459 kg
- Load volume: 3.47–6.83 m³
- GVW: 2.6–3.4 tonnes
- Body styles: Van, Double-Cab-in-Van
- Production: Kocaeli, Turkey
- Sales start: Autumn 2012
"The signature shark's fin' kick-up in the front window line, which is replicated in the rear body panel, will be familiar to many long-time Ford Transit Custom customers. For a cleaner and more contemporary aesthetic, we went to considerable pains to reduce the number of shortlines on the car " Campbell stated.
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