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Which used Ford Transit Custom should you buy?
There have been various versions of the Ford Transit Custom offered since the model came out back in 2012. It’s a medium-sized van, but the smallest one in the current Ford Transit line-up, barring the much more car-like Ford Transit Connect and Ford Transit Courier.
First, though, you need to work out which Ford Transit Custom is right for you, and at first glance, the choices can look confusing.
As well as the three different basic body types – you can choose a van, a double-cab van with two rows of seats, or a minibus with three rows – there are two different lengths, and low and high roof options.
At least you don’t have to worry too much about the engine options – most share the same smooth and punchy 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel. There are four power outputs – 106PS, 132PS, 172PS or 188PS – and a choice of a manual gearbox or automatic. Two mild hybrid options have now joined the range, too.
There is also a Ford Transit Custom Plug-in Hybrid, which is fitted with a 1.0-litre petrol engine.
The Ford Transit Custom is one of the most practical options around in straightforward van guise. It fits three standard pallets on the floor, has a ‘through load’ feature under the front passenger seat to accommodate long (3.4m) goods, and comes with a wide side loading door.
Go for the long-wheelbase version and load capacity jumps from six cubic metres to nearly seven, even with a bulkhead fitted as standard to keep your load secure.
If you need to carry a crew or even family members when you’re not working, the Ford Transit Custom Double Cab-in-Van has an extra row of three seats, protected from the rear load area by a sturdy bulkhead. With the double front passenger seat option, it means up to six people can travel in comfort.
If you need to carry more people, then the Ford Transit Custom Kombi could be right for you. This has a total of three rows of seats, accommodating nine people, and all the seats in the back can be folded or removed in case you need to carry tools or gear instead of passengers.
What used Ford Transit Custom trim levels are available?
There’s a range of options, with the Ford Transit Custom Leader (below) the starting point. Off-road-inspired and sporty flavoured specifications are on offer higher up the range.
Ford Transit Custom Leader
The entry-level Ford Transit Custom Leader spec is far from spartan with a number of useful features (detailed below). Inside, the tech is reasonably basic, though.
- Electric front windows
- Remote locking
- Eight-way adjustable driver’s seat
- Start-stop
- Selectable drive modes
- Two 12V outlets
- 4.2-inch digital screen
- Bluetooth
Ford Transit Custom Trend
Moving up a grade to Ford Transit Custom Trend spec brings a much more appealing array of features, particularly the SYNC3 media system which gives the interior a more contemporary high-tech feel, and works effectively too.
- Electric folding mirrors
- Projector headlamps
- LED daytime running lights
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Automatic lights
- Automatic windscreen wipers
- Leather-trimmed steering wheel
- Cruise control
- Map lights
- Eight-inch touchscreen SYNC3 media system
Ford Transit Custom Limited
Things start to get a bit swanky on the Ford Transit Custom Limited. There’s a host of standard equipment on top of the Ford Transit Custom Trend spec, plus design details that make the van look more car-like and sophisticated compared with cheaper versions.
- Air-conditioning
- 16-inch alloy wheels
- Heated front seats
- LED load compartment lights
- Body-coloured side mouldings
- Body-coloured rear bumper
- Body-coloured door handles
Ford Transit Custom Sport
The Ford Transit Custom Sport is something of a halo model. It’s unmissable on the road with its special sporty styling flourishes. Inside, it’s more comfortably kitted out, too.
- Striped bonnet graphics
- 17-inch black alloy wheels
- Sports styling kit
- Part-leather upholstery
- Reversing camera
- Trailer hitch assist
Ford Transit Custom Trail
Ford Transit Custom Trail models are easily identifiable by the large Ford Ranger Raptor-style FORD badging across the grille in place of the commonly used blue oval badge.
- Digital rear view mirror
- Car-like styling pack
Ford Transit Custom Active
The most expensive Ford Transit Custom models draw inspiration from the Ford Fiesta Active and Ford Focus Active, with similar off-road styling including black plastic cladding on the lower half. The ride height remains untouched, though some off-road ability comes from the optional limited-slip differential.
- Off-road styling
- Optional limited-slip differential (£550)
Ford Transit Custom Plug-in Hybrid
Drivers looking to cut the cost of motoring will be tempted by the Ford Transit Custom Plug-in Hybrid. Unlike most plug-in hybrids, only the battery drives the wheels. The small 13.6kWh battery is capable of around 30 miles, and can be fully charged in just over five hours using a standard domestic socket. The 1.0-litre petrol engine can top up the batteries on the go, too.
A mild hybrid system is also available, with a pair of 2.0-litre diesel engines supported by some additional electronics to make almost 40mpg possible in official tests. These are available in 132PS and 172PS forms, but availability can be a challenge.
Is a used Ford Transit Custom a good buy?
When you take into account the Ford Transit Custom’s snappy styling and enjoyable drive, plus some appealing options, it is one of the top choices for drivers who need a van for work but don’t want to have to put up with an uncomfortable, noisy machine.
Whichever version you choose, the Ford Transit Custom should be reliable, cost-effective to run and great to drive with a quiet and comfortable cabin and extremely practical load space.
Go for a nearly new or used Ford Transit Custom and it should prove even better value.