The somewhat-rugged Ford Transit Trail could be on its way to the United States. Ford released the Transit Trail in the UK for the 2020 model year and while it isn’t what anyone would describe as an off-roader, it does have some styling elements inspired by the F-150 Raptor. This includes the blacked-out front grille with a prominent Ford logo. It also features black body cladding, including the front bumper, wheel arches, and side panels.
Motor Trend reports that Ford recently filed paperwork to patent the Transit Trail in the United States. The exterior design patent was filed on April 29, 2020 and granted on August 10, 2021 and depicts the same Transit Trail as offered in other markets around the world. The patent also includes the same 17-inch black split-five-spoke wheels the van has in the UK.
A number of other components distinguish the Transit Trail from lesser variants. For example, it is offered in rear- and all-wheel drive configurations and features a mechanical limited-slip differential from Quaife. It is also offered with roof rails and running boards and can be ordered in either panel van or double-cab-in-van body styles.
Various interior changes have also been made. These include full leather seating as standard, air conditioning, power-foldable door mirrors, auto lighting, and a Quickclear heated windshield. UK customers can order the Transit Trail with either a 2.0-liter EcoBlue diesel producing 128 hp, 168 hp, or 182 hp, depending on the configuration. However, this engine probably won’t be available in the U.S. as the existing 2021 Transit is only offered with a 3.5-liter naturally-aspirated V6 developing 275 hp and 355 Nm of torque, and a turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 with 310 hp and 555 Nm.
