The Ford Transit Custom Van remains the top choice for UK businesses and tradespeople. Its latest 2026 updates bring better tech, efficiency, and versatility while keeping the rugged reliability that made it Europe’s best-seller.
Why the Transit Custom Leads the Pack
Ford’s Transit Custom Van dominates UK sales charts year after year. Built on lighter underpinnings with improved aerodynamics, the new model offers more space and options like panel van, double cab, and MultiCab for up to five passengers plus cargo.
This mid-size van suits builders, plumbers, and delivery drivers with its class-leading payload up to 1,406kg and towing up to 2.8 tonnes on diesel versions. The 2026 refresh includes a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and all-electric E-Transit Custom, aligning with green fleet demands.
Powertrain Options for Every Job
Diesel fans get a 2.0-litre EcoBlue engine in outputs from 110PS to 170PS, paired with manual or eight-speed automatic gearboxes. All-new all-wheel drive (AWD) on automatics handles slippery UK roads, with mechanical limited-slip diff for manuals.
The PHEV pairs a 2.5-litre petrol engine with an 11.8kWh battery for up to 33 miles electric-only range and 176mpg official economy. Real-world tests show over 60mpg when charged, dropping to mid-30s mpg without.
E-Transit Custom offers up to 209 miles of range, 125kW fast charging, and 2.3-tonne towing. Six drive modes tailor throttle, steering, and shifts to conditions like slippery or normal roads.
Driving Experience That Feels Car-Like
Independent rear suspension delivers a planted ride over potholes, though it thumps loudly on big bumps. The 148PS diesel pulls strongly loaded or empty, with light, quick steering for tight urban turns—thanks to a 12.1m turning circle.
Highway stability shines, with low wind noise and a refined cabin. The PHEV shifts smoothly between modes but revs high under load. Overall, it drives more like a large SUV than a van rival like the Mercedes Vito or Vauxhall Vivaro.
Smart Cabin and Tech Upgrades
A 13-inch SYNC 4 touchscreen with 5G connectivity handles navigation, Alexa voice commands, and wireless Apple CarPlay. The 8-inch digital driver’s display is simple, but the squared-off steering takes adjustment.
Flat floor and column-shift (on autos) allow easy walk-through. Features like keyless start, dual-zone climate, and a folding steering wheel for a mobile office add daily ease. Power side doors and 360-camera (optional) simplify loading.
Safety kit is generous: lane-keep, pre-collision assist, adaptive cruise, and reverse brake assist come standard. Delivery Assist automates hazards and locks for quick stops.
Loadspace and Practicality Wins
Low step-in height and LED load lights make access easy. L1 short-wheelbase holds 5.8m³, L2 stretches to 6.8m³ with 3.45m load-through. Side aperture measures 1,030mm x 1,301mm for pallets.
Payload edges rivals, and sub-2m height fits multi-storey car parks. Multicab and kombi variants carry crews up to nine with flexible seating.
| Model Variant | Payload (kg) | Load Volume (m³) | Towing (tonnes) | Fuel Economy (mpg WLTP) |
| L1 Diesel 150PS | 1,406 | 5.8 | 2.8 | 34-40.9 |
| L2 PHEV Trend | ~1,000 | 5.8 | 2.3 | 176 (charged) |
| E-Transit Custom | 1,200 | 5.8-6.8 | 2.3 | 209 miles range |
| Double Cab Diesel | 1,200 | 4.0 | 2.8 | 35 |
Ownership Costs and Reliability
Prices start at £44,023 ex-VAT for Leader trim, up 10% but still undercuts Vauxhall Vivaro. Three-year/60,000-mile warranty lags rivals’ mileage caps.
Running costs stay competitive: diesels hit 40mpg, PHEV excels for urban fleets. Ford Pro telematics tracks fleets, and FORDLiive speeds diagnostics. Strong dealer network supports UK users.
Build quality shows minor niggles like rattles, but crash ratings and safety tech impress. Resale holds firm as the bestseller.
Final Thoughts on the 2026 Transit Custom
The Ford Transit Custom Van cements its UK throne with 2026 tweaks like electrification, AWD, and tech boosts. Trades need its payload and drive; fleets love efficiency options. No van does it all better—yet.
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