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2026 Ford Transit Custom review – Quick drive

Kian Prohaska3 weeks ago

14 minutes read

Forget minivans and soccer mom mobiles. The Ford Transit Custom isn’t just a delivery van; it’s the swagger wagon, the asphalt aristocrat, the undisputed king of curbside cool.

Forget the mundane. The Transit Custom isn’t just another mid-size van; it’s for those who demand more than a blank canvas on wheels. It’s where utility meets individuality.

A long time ago, I was taught that people buy on emotion, but justify their purchase with logic.

Think a classic ’70s panel van, but with modern comforts? The Ford Transit Custom is your answer. It’s the perfect van for those who need practicality without sacrificing style – air-conditioning, Apple CarPlay, impressive fuel economy, and reliability all come standard. Finally, a work van that doesn’t scream "house painter."

Forget what you think you know about vans. The Transit Custom isn’t just a workhorse; it’s a head-turner. It confidently blends functionality with undeniable style, proving you can haul serious cargo without sacrificing aesthetics. This van looks as good as it works.

The Transit family just got bigger, bolder, and electrified. Meet the new additions: the go-anywhere, all-wheel-drive Transit Custom Trail; the fuel-sipping, plug-in hybrid Transit Custom PHEV; and the game-changing, all-electric E-Transit Custom. Three new ways to power your business, each built to conquer different roads.

But wait, the plot thickens! Eco-conscious drivers aren’t stuck with a single option. Ford serves up a double dose of plug-in hybrid goodness: a capacious, long-wheelbase Trend model for maximum passenger comfort, or a more athletic, short-wheelbase Sport variant for those craving a zestier ride.

Pick your power: diesel, plug-in hybrid, or pure electric. Then, choose your drive: front-wheel for efficiency, all-wheel for adventure on the Trail model, or rear-wheel for the E-Transit’s hauling might.

Forget the electric buzz the real shocker about the next-gen Transit Custom, hitting Aussie roads mid-2024, isn’t its two new electrified engines. It’s the magic Ford’s worked on the ride and handling.

Forget what you know about work vans. This one boasts independent rear suspension with coil springs – a surprisingly sophisticated setup more at home in a sports car than a load-lugger. Prepare for a ride that redefines "smooth delivery."

Yet, despite the engineering overhaul, the Transit Custom remains a workhorse, capable of hauling up to 1339kg. What’s truly remarkable is how these enhancements translate into a vastly superior driving experience. But, more on that in a moment…

How much does the Ford Transit Custom cost?

From a practical workhorse to a stylish statement, the Ford Transit Custom offers a flavor for every business. Entry into the range starts at $56,590 (plus on-road costs) for the short-wheelbase Trend diesel. But with nine distinct models to choose from, the possibilities are vast. Craving emission-free performance with a sporty edge? The short-wheelbase electric Sport tops the lineup at $79,990 (plus on-roads), proving that going green doesn’t mean sacrificing style or capability.

| Model | Price before on-road costs | | — | — | | 2026 Ford Transit Custom Trend SWB turbo-diesel | $56,590 | | 2026 Ford Transit Custom Trend LWB turbo-diesel | $57,590 | | 2026 Ford Transit Custom Sport SWB turbo-diesel | $59,990 | | 2026 Ford Transit Custom Sport LWB Double Cab turbo-diesel | $62,990 | | 2026 Ford Transit Custom Trail LWB turbo-diesel | $61,990 | | 2026 Ford Transit Custom Trend LWB PHEV | $67,590 | | 2026 Ford Transit Custom Sport SWB PHEV | $69,990 | | 2026 Ford E-Transit Custom Trend LWB EV | $77,590 | | 2026 Ford E-Transit Custom Sport SWB EV | $79,990 |

To see how the Ford Transit Custom lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool

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What is the Ford Transit Custom like on the inside?

The good news is the Transit Custom is just as cool on the inside… with a couple of caveats.

Ford’s cabin design strikes a smart balance: pure utility with unexpected dashes of style that tease the eye and keep you visually engaged.

Even in its simplest form, the Trend avoids the pitfalls of cheap plastics and generic controls. Instead, every surface offers a pleasing tactile experience, blending durability with contemporary design.

Forget fumbling! This car features smart nooks for your water bottles, a handy fold-down cupholder for the driver, and – in the three-seater models – a brilliant, flat workspace ready for signing off deals on the go.

The driving position strikes a sweet spot, a confident perch that splits the difference between a van and an SUV. Gone is the ramrod-straight posture of older Transits, replaced by a more relaxed and commanding view of the road. It’s a welcome evolution.

Behind the wheel of the PHEV and E-Transit Custom, a vibrant digital instrument cluster greets the driver, while Ford’s intuitive Sync 4 operating system powers a prominent, portrait-style infotainment screen. Experience seamless smartphone integration with lightning-fast wireless Apple CarPlay connectivity.

For those opting for the top-tier model, say goodbye to obstructed views with the digital rear-view mirror. Imagine never having to crane your neck around that mountain of luggage again! However, be warned: its parallax-free clarity might initially feel a bit like stepping into the future – a future that takes a little getting used to.

Ford, in a stroke of questionable genius, has replaced the right-hand indicator stalk with the gear shifter. Picture this: you’re approaching a left turn, hand confidently reaching for the signal, and BAM! You’re in neutral, momentum dying a swift, embarrassing death. One has to wonder why Ford ignored the wisdom of the ages, the carefully considered offset placement employed by everyone else. It’s a design quirk bordering on automotive anarchy.

As for the front passenger in the Trend trim? Let’s just say they’ll be praying for a quick trip. Shackled to a bench seat devoid of any adjustability, their comfort is at the mercy of the road. And forget about blocking that annoying afternoon sun streaming through the side window; the sun visor’s a fixed feature, thanks to the airbag’s new penthouse suite in the roof lining. Consider it a test of endurance, or a crash course in meditation on the fleeting nature of car rides.

The Trend gets the job done as a mobile office for couriers and the like. But for clever design, it’s the Transit Custom Trail that steals the show. Forget perches – the passenger actually gets a proper seat, complete with an armrest.

Forget the leather; it’s the baseball-stitched seams that steal the show. Ford’s finally injecting some real personality into the Transit Custom, moving beyond the same old tired upgrades.

The short-wheelbase model boasts a load area that’s ready for business. Imagine: a cavernous 2602mm stretching to the bulkhead, a lofty 1427mm of headroom, and a practical 1392mm between the wheel arches. The result? A generous 5.7 square meters of cargo space – enough to swallow three Euro pallets with room to spare.

Need serious cargo space? The long-wheelbase Transit boasts dimensions of 3002mm, 1425mm, and 1392mm, transforming into a cavernous 6m3. Think of it this way: it’s a pallet-swallowing beast, easily accommodating four Euro pallets with room to spare.

| Dimensions | Ford Transit Custom | | — | — | |Length| 5050-5450mm | |Width| 2032mm | |Height| 1968mm | |Wheelbase| 3100-3500mm | |Cargo capacity| 5200-6000L |

To see how the Ford Transit Custom lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool

What’s under the bonnet?

Under the hood of nearly every Transit Custom (excluding the E-Transit and Trail models) beats the heart of a workhorse: a 2.0-liter turbo-diesel four-cylinder engine. Punching out 125kW and 390Nm of torque, this isn’t just any engine. It’s the same robust powerplant found in the entry-level Volkswagen Amarok and Ford Ranger utes, as well as their cousin, the Volkswagen Transporter – meaning your Transit Custom shares some serious DNA with vehicles built to conquer tough terrain.

Most model grades drive the front wheels through an eight-speed torque-converter automatic transmission, with the Trail gaining all-wheel drive.

Beneath the Transit Custom PHEV’s unassuming exterior lies a cleverly engineered powertrain. Ditching the diesel, it weds a fuel-sipping 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle petrol engine (producing 86kW and 209Nm) to a seamless CVT automatic, offering a unique blend of electric efficiency and petrol-powered reassurance.

Unleash exhilarating electric power with a newly integrated 11.8kWh battery! Paired with a potent 111kW electric motor generating a hefty 320Nm of torque, prepare for a surge to 171kW. Embrace emission-free adventures, gliding silently for up to 54 kilometers on pure electric drive.

Forget fossil fuels – the E-Transit Custom rips into the future with a 64kWh battery pack unleashing a pulse of pure electric power. That energy surges to a rear-mounted electric motor, churning out a hefty 160kW and a massive 415Nm of torque, ready to tackle any job with silent, electrifying muscle.

Ford’s E-Transit van lets you kiss range anxiety goodbye, offering a generous 301 km of emission-free driving in the long-wheelbase model and a surprisingly punchier 307 km in the short-wheelbase, when unburdened.

Need a lightning-fast recharge? Ford’s E-Transit can juice up from 15% to 80% in just 32 minutes using a 125kW DC fast charger. For a full charge at home with a 7.4kW AC charger, plan for an overnight pit stop – roughly 10 hours from empty to full.

To see how the Ford Transit Custom lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool

How does the Ford Transit Custom drive?

Confession time: I really love driving vans.

Ever experienced the raw, unadulterated joy of piloting a commercial van? Especially the vintage variety – those gloriously ungainly boxes on wheels? Trust me, it’s a thrill you won’t soon forget.

Ford claims its new Transit Custom sheds its workhorse roots, offering a driving experience surprisingly akin to a passenger car – a bittersweet revelation for those who secretly cherish its raw, untamed spirit.

Believe the hype. Yes, you’re piloting a behemoth, especially when navigating those razor-sharp turns. But the rest of the time? It handles like a dream, shrinking into something surprisingly akin to a nimble, mid-size SUV.

While the Transit Custom grips the road with tenacity, inspiring confidence as you carve through corners, it’s the ride quality that truly elevates the driving experience.

Empty commercial vans and ladder-frame utes can feel like a bucking bronco. Their suspensions, tuned for hefty payloads, turn bouncy and unpredictable without a load to tame them.

Somehow, though, the Transit Custom rides brilliantly, both with and without a heavy load onboard.

I became obsessed, pushing the limits. I started hitting those speed humps – the kind that launch lesser cars into orbit – at speeds no sane driver would attempt. The Custom? It just shrugged them off.

Ford promises the Transit Custom Trail will conquer tougher terrain thanks to its all-terrain tires. However, our test models rolled in sporting the same everyday rubber as the standard van. Will this impact road noise and handling? We’re eager to put a production-ready Trail through its paces and discover if it truly lives up to its adventurous name.

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The Transit Trail’s diesel heart, while no symphony of power, delivers a satisfying surge of torque that effortlessly propels you forward. Mated to a slick-shifting eight-speed automatic, it’s a workhorse powertrain – unassuming, perhaps, but undeniably capable. Think of it as a reliable friend who always gets the job done, no drama required.

While the E-Transit Custom tackles the workload, its real-world pep feels surprisingly muted compared to the electrifying numbers on the spec sheet.

Plant your foot and all 415Nm erupt, a tidal wave of torque slamming into the tires. But only if you dare. The throttle feels muted, hesitant, as if guarding its electric treasure, discouraging anything resembling enthusiastic battery depletion.

Forget what you know about lumbering vans. The Transit PHEV? It’s a revelation. Fresh from driving the Ranger PHEV, the Transit’s acceleration felt surprisingly punchy. It’s like Ford unlocked hidden reserves of power, delivering a responsive surge on demand while sipping fuel like a hummingbird. This isn’t your grandpa’s gas guzzler.

To see how the Ford Transit Custom lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool

What do you get?

2026 Ford Transit Custom Trend equipment highlights:

16-inch steel wheels
215/65 R16C tyres
Steel spare wheel
Normal, Eco, Slippery and Tow/Haul drive modes
Automatic halogen headlights
Automatic high-beam
Rain-sensing wipers
Quickclear heated windscreen
Single sliding left-hand door
Metal bulkhead with window, load-through hatch
Rear barn doors
Roof racks
Three seats
Cloth upholstery
8-way power driver’s seat
Single driver’s arm rest
Heated outboard front seats
Under-seat stowage compartment
13-inch touchscreen infotainment system
Satellite navigation with one year of Connected Navigation Services
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
DAB+ digital radio
FM radio
4-speaker sound system
12-inch digital instrument cluster
Wireless phone charger
1 x USB-A outlet
1 x USB-C outlet
1 x 12V outlet
Single-zone climate control
Leatherette-wrapped steering wheel
Tilt and telescopic steering column adjustment
Push-button start
3 x cupholders

The Sport adds:

17-inch matte black alloy wheels
215/60 R17C tyres
Sport drive mode
LED headlights
LED daytime running lights
LED tail-lights
Heated exterior mirrors with auto fold
Sport body kit
Rear spoiler
Exterior striping
‘Sports’ interior trim with blue accent stripes
10-way power driver’s seat
Dual driver’s arm rest
4 x USB-C outlets
Dual-one climate control
Locking lower glovebox
Upper glovebox with removable rubber insert and USB-C outlet
Proximity entry

The Trail adds:

Yellow Trail decals
Faux leather interior with yellow baseball stitching
‘Trail’ embossing on seats
Unique grille
Underbody skid plates
Wheel arches
Side trims
16-inch matte black alloy wheels
All-terrain tyres

Other options include:

Metallic paint $700
SVO paint $1400
A two-seat configuration: $150; deletes the load-through hatch
Rear liftgate: $700; replaces the barn doors
<blockquote> Fortify your van with our Secure Visibility Pack ($1500): a steel cocoon for your cargo. Featuring windowless steel rear doors and a solid metal bulkhead, deter theft and safeguard your valuable assets. Plus, the digital rearview mirror with integrated dash cam provides irrefutable evidence, keeping you protected on the road. </blockquote >

Option 2 (Focus on Technology & Modernization):

<blockquote> Upgrade to the Secure Visibility Pack ($1500) and leave outdated visibility behind. Replace standard windows with robust steel rear doors and a solid metal bulkhead for ultimate privacy and security. The cuttingedge digital rearview mirror, complete with a builtin dash cam, brings your van into the future. </blockquote >

Option 3 (Focus on Practicality & Peace of Mind):

<blockquote> Gain peace of mind with our Secure Visibility Pack ($1500). We’ve swapped vulnerable rear windows for durable steel, added a solid metal bulkhead, and included a digital rearview mirror with integrated dash cam. It’s the practical choice for enhanced security and comprehensive road recording. </blockquote >

Is the Ford Transit Custom safe?

Forget stars. In 2024, the Ford Transit Custom didn’t just pass safety tests; it aced them. ANCAP, known for rigorously assessing passenger vehicles, recently raised the bar for commercial vans. The Transit Custom didn’t just meet the new standard; it shattered it, earning the coveted ‘Platinum’ grade – a testament to its top-tier safety features and setting a new benchmark for its class.

Ford’s Transit Custom isn’t just hauling cargo; it’s setting a new safety standard. ANCAP awarded it a stellar 96%, declaring it the benchmark for safety, a near-perfect score that leaves competitors in the dust.

Safety redefined! Scoring a phenomenal 96%, this vehicle doesn’t just meet safety standards; it demolishes them. Forget the usual suspects like Mercedes-Benz Vito and Sprinter, or even the Hyundai Staria Load – this ride achieved a clean sweep, earning ‘Good’ ratings across all safety systems tested, leaving the competition in the dust.

The Toyota HiAce, a key rival to the Ford, aced its safety tests with a flawless five-star rating. However, because it was one of the first vans assessed under the new system, a head-to-head safety comparison with the Transit Custom becomes a bit like comparing apples to oranges.

Standard safety equipment includes:

Autonomous emergency braking

Intersection assist
Reverse AEB

Adaptive cruise control
Blind-spot assist
Evasive steering assist
Lane keep assist
Rear cross-traffic alert
Safe exit warning
Traffic sign recognition
Reversing camera with 180-degree view
Front, rear parking sensors
Front, front-side, and curtain airbags

To see how the Ford Transit Custom lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool

How much does the Ford Transit Custom cost to run?

Ford Transit Custom owners, brace yourselves! You’re cleared for a staggering 30,000km or 12 months between services. That’s further than many vans travel in a year. Compare that to the Toyota HiAce, begging for fresh oil every 10,000km or six months. The Transit Custom laughs in the face of frequent oil changes!

Want to keep your Transit Custom purring long after its warranty expires? Those generous 30,000km service intervals are fantastic for high-mileage couriers, but for long-term ownership, consider halving that distance. An oil change every 15,000km could be the secret to a healthier, happier engine down the road.

Keep your Transit Custom PHEV or E-Transit Custom EV humming with worry-free servicing. Scheduled visits are required every 12 months or 10,000km, and each is capped at an affordable $499.

To see how the Ford Transit Custom lines up against the competition, check out ourcomparison tool

childcareman.xyz’s Take on the Ford Transit Custom

The Transit Custom is impressive, offering a multi-generational leap in terms of ride and handling.

Ford’s engineers poured heart and soul into this van, yet it risks fading into the background noise of the commercial vehicle market. It’s a shame because, under the hood, there’s some genuine innovation brewing that deserves a spotlight, not a footnote.

Trading weekend wilderness treks for weekday city streets? Ditch the lumbering dual-cab. The Transit Custom offers a refreshingly refined ride, a stark contrast to the truck-like handling you’re used to. Plus, kiss goodbye to parking nightmares – its nimble footprint makes maneuvering a breeze.

For those who crave a van’s versatility without sacrificing style, the Transit Custom answers the call. It’s a workhorse ready for weekday duties, but with clever configurations that transform it into a weekend adventuremobile. If you need a van, and secretly dream of escaping the daily grind, look no further.

For businesses operating within a tight, well-defined delivery radius, the E-Transit Custom isn’t just sensible it’s a strategic advantage. Picture this: your fleet silently recharging overnight at the depot, ready to hit the road each morning with a full charge and zero emissions. It’s a streamlined, cost-effective dream.

For couriers and tradies occasionally stretching beyond their familiar routes, a plug-in hybrid is the ultimate chameleon. It conquers new territories without guzzling fuel or choking the air, making every out-of-bounds delivery a cost-effective and cleaner adventure.

Forget the ordinary. The Transit Custom Trail isn’t just a van; it’s the rugged, adventurous spirit of the Transit family unleashed. This is where practicality meets premium, where all-wheel drive claws its way through challenging terrain while you’re cocooned in surprising comfort. Need traction and a touch of class? This is the Transit you’ve been waiting for.

Forget blending in. This ride’s a statement, even if you’re just hauling surfboards, backpacking gear, or the daily grind for your coffee shop. It’s probably more muscle than most need, but try resisting its rugged charm and cavernous cargo space when SUVs and utes just won’t cut it.

Specs and stats might start the conversation, but buying a Transit Custom? That’s a heart-first decision. Embrace it. Who says a workhorse can’t ignite a little passion? Forget the drab, soul-crushing stereotypes; this van’s got character to burn.

childcareman.xyz can save you thousands on a new Ford Transit Custom. Clickhereto get a great deal.

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MORE:Explore the Ford Transit Custom showroom

Thanks for reading 2026 Ford Transit Custom review – Quick drive

How much does the Ford Transit Custom cost?

Let us help you find your new car

What is the Ford Transit Custom like on the inside?

What’s under the bonnet?

How does the Ford Transit Custom drive?

Trusted Reviews, Smarter Choices, Better Prices

What do you get?

Is the Ford Transit Custom safe?

How much does the Ford Transit Custom cost to run?

childcareman.xyz’s Take on the Ford Transit Custom

Kian Prohaska

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