The Ford Mustang and the Ford Transit now
have one more thing in common besides the Blue Oval badge. Ford of Europe has
announced that the Transit van is from now on available with a 10-speed
automatic transmission. That’s the same gearbox available on the Mustang sports
car and the Ranger and F-150 pickup trucks.
The 10-speed auto is offered as an option
on rear-wheel drive Ford Transit models powered by the latest 170 PS 2.0-liter EcoBlue HDT turbo diesel engine. Ford says the automatic transmission
underwent “intensive performance and durability testing to ensure suitability
for heavy-duty use in commercial vehicles that operate at high weights, tow
frequently, and have high-intensity work schedules.”
The automaker claims the 10-speed auto
offers the ideal solution for RWD Transit applications where automatics are
preferred for their ease-of-use and convenience. Those include higher weight
conversions including grocery delivery vans, emergency response vehicles and motorhomes,
as well as the factory-built 15-seat and 18-seat Transit minibuses.
Equipped with the 10-speed automatic
gearbox, the Transit comes with GVM (gross vehicle mass) ratings ranging from
3,500 kg to 4,600 kg and single- or dual-rear-wheel
options. The model is also available with chassis cab, minibus and van body
styles. The 10-speed automatic gearbox allows the Transit to tow up to 2,800 kg.
Additionally, the maximum GTM (gross
towing mass) of 6,100 kg makes the Transit appropriate for
operators in construction, utilities or events industries who frequently tow
equipment.
