Ford has unveiled the new Transit Trail and Active trims to add “distinctive design, surprising capability and legendary Transit toughness” to the range.
We’ll start with the Transit Trail which is designed specifically for people whose work takes them through “challenging terrain away from normal modes”.
The cosmetic upgrades may seem a bit gimmicky to some but I actually think it looks quite good. You get that Raptor-style front grille which looks great, as well as a chunkier body kit and pick-up truck-style 16-inch alloys to add to the rugged appearance.
Ford insists it isn’t just for show and does indeed have the performance to back up the looks.
The Transit Trail benefits from the choice of rear-wheel-drive or ‘Intelligent AWD’ and it’s the latter that you want. It can be locked in a 50:50 front to rear ratio or decouple the front axle for better fuel economy in normal driving conditions.
‘Slippery’ and ‘Mud Ruts’ modes are called into action on more challenging surfaces. They assist the ‘Intelligent AWD’ system by distributing the power in a way that maximises grip whilst limiting the impact on the van’s fuel economy.
Unfortunately the smaller Transit Custom Trail only gets front-wheel-drive. It does, however, get a Quaife mechanical limited-slip differential which, again, helps to improve traction without emptying your fuel tank.
Inside, the Transit Trail gets a full leather interior “bringing additional luxury, durability and wipe-clean flexibility to the cabin”. Air-con, folding mirrors, auto-lights and a heated windscreen are also standard.
Under the bonnet is a 2.0-litre diesel engine with optional mild-hybrid technology to increase range. Power options are 130, 170 and 185bhp.
Then there’s the Transit Custom Active, also available as a Tourneo, with its “SUV-inspired” exterior which Ford say is perfect for anyone with an “outdoor lifestyle”.
It doesn’t get the same grille as the Trail which is a shame. Instead, it gets a more subtle mesh grille with the Blue Oval front and centre. It also gets exclusive 17-inch alloy wheels, additional cladding on the wheel arches, rear bumper and wing mirrors and roof rails as standard.
Inside, the Active gets half-leather leather upholstery. The seating arrangement is adjustable. Seats can be moved either to give passengers more room or increase luggage space. They can also be rotated to create a “conference seating layout” or removed completely to further expand the luggage space.
The Active gets the same engine options as the Trail. Like the Custom Trail it is only available in front-wheel-drive and can be equipped with the mechanical limited-slip differential. This time, though, it’s a £550 optional extra.
Prices for the Transit Trail and Custom Trail start at £35,685 and £29,250 respectively. The Transit Custom Active costs from £30,000.while the Tourneo Active begins at £37,950.
What do you think of the new trims? Let us know in the comments section below or via our Facebook and Twitter pages.
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