Ford Transit Custom Double Cab Sport: A Comprehensive Review

The Ford Transit Custom Double Cab Sport stands out as a versatile and stylish vehicle in the commercial van market. This model combines the practicality of a work vehicle with the comfort and esthetics of a passenger car, making it an attractive option for businesses and families alike. With its distinctive body color options and striking 20″ alloys, the Transit Custom Double Cab Sport catches the eye while delivering on functionality.

In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore the key features that set the Ford Transit Custom Double Cab Sport apart. From its sleek exterior design to its powerful performance and advanced technology, including the handy reversing camera, this article will delve into what makes this van a top choice. We’ll also examine the spacious interior, discuss the 2024 model updates, and compare it to other variants like the Ford Transit Custom Limited and crew cab versions. Additionally, we’ll touch on the competitive pricing and potential discount offers available for this impressive commercial vehicle. Source

Design and Exterior Features

Sporty Styling Elements

The Ford Transit Custom Double Cab Sport boasts a bold and dynamic appearance that sets it apart from standard commercial vehicles. Its exterior design features unique styling elements that give it a sporty edge. The front grille stands out with its distinctive design, immediately catching the eye. Body-colored bumpers and side skirts contribute to a sleek, cohesive look, while the 17-inch alloy wheels add a touch of sophistication and sportiness to the overall esthetic. See all Ford Transit Custom for sale

Dimensions and Cargo Space

The Ford Transit Custom Double Cab Sport offers versatile cargo options to suit various needs. The shorter L1 model with a low roof provides a cargo capacity of 5.8 cubic meters, slightly less than its predecessor but still substantial. For those requiring more space, the longer L2 model with the same roof configuration increases the capacity to 6.8 cubic meters. Access to the cargo area has been improved, with the sliding side door on the passenger side opening to reveal a gap wider than a meter. The double rear doors offer a 1,400mm wide opening, slightly surpassing competitors like the Renault Trafic. The distance between wheel arches measures 1,392mm, also wider than the Trafic, allowing for easier loading of large items. For securing cargo, shorter L1 models come equipped with six tie-down points, while longer L2 models feature eight hooks on the load bay floor. It’s worth noting that plug-in hybrid versions have two fewer tie-down points in each configuration. See Ford Transit Custom Sport 

Color Options and Customization

The Ford Transit Custom Double Cab Sport  for sale offers a range of vibrant color options, allowing customers to personalize their vehicle to suit their preferences or business needs. In addition to the standard body colors, Ford provides a selection of optional premium paint finishes for those who want their Transit Custom Sport to stand out even more on the road. This level of customization extends beyond just color choices. The Transit Custom Sport models offer various configurations to meet different requirements. These include two length options (L1 and L2, also known as short-wheelbase and long-wheelbase) and two height options (H1 and H2), providing flexibility for diverse business needs. For those seeking enhanced capabilities, the Transit Custom Trail variant offers a mechanical limited slip differential (mLSD) as standard, along with upgraded bodywork including a bold FORD grille. This makes it suitable for operators who need a tougher van with greater traction. Meanwhile, the Transit Custom Active variant features SUV-inspired styling, targeting more adventurous lifestyle buyers such as mountain bikers and wind surfers.

Performance and Powertrain

The Ford Transit Custom Double Cab Sport offers a range of powerful and efficient powertrain options, catering to various business needs and driving preferences.

Engine Options

The Transit Custom features Ford’s EcoBlue turbodiesel engines, which were introduced to meet Euro 6 emission standards. These 2.0-liter engines replaced the original 2.2-liter units, offering improved performance and efficiency. The EcoBlue engines come in four power outputs, with the 148bhp version providing strong pace and smooth operation. For those seeking more power, Ford introduced a 185hp version at the top of the range in 2019. This addition came alongside updates to the entire engine lineup, including new turbochargers, pistons, injectors, and an on-demand oil pump, resulting in a 7% improvement in real-world fuel economy. The Transit Custom also offers alternative powertrain options:

1. EcoBlue Hybrid: A mild hybrid electric vehicle (mHEV) version available with the 130hp 2.0-liter diesel engine, utilizing 48v electric technology.
2. Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV): Capable of driving up to 34 miles under electric power alone, with a useable battery capacity of 11.8kWh.
3. All-Electric: The upcoming all-electric model promises a range of up to 236 miles, thanks to its larger 82.5kWh battery pack.

Transmission Choices

The Transit Custom comes standard with a six-speed manual gearbox, featuring a snappy, dashboard-mounted gearlever for easy use. For those preferring an automatic transmission, Ford offers two options:

1. Six-speed automatic: Available on front-wheel drive models since 2016.
2. Ten-speed automatic: Introduced in June 2020 for rear-wheel drive models, this modern transmission offers smoother operation and improved efficiency. see all Ford Transit Custom for sale

Fuel Efficiency

Fuel efficiency varies across the Transit Custom range, depending on the engine and configuration chosen. The EcoBlue diesel engines have shown improvements in fuel economy, with the 2019 updates contributing to a 7% increase in real-world efficiency. See Ford Transit Custom Engines The plug-in hybrid variant stands out with its impressive fuel economy figures:

• Overall fuel economy: 176.6mpg (up from 91.1mpg in the previous model)
• Electric-only range: Up to 34 miles

It’s worth noting that to achieve optimal fuel efficiency with the PHEV, regular recharging has to be done. The all-wheel drive Trail version in longer L2 form has the lowest fuel efficiency at 33.2mpg and emissions of 222g/km. All diesel models are equipped with a 20-liter AdBlue tank to reduce NOx emissions, ensuring compliance with Euro 6.2 emissions standards. This commitment to reducing environmental impact aligns with Ford’s continuous product development policy, which aims to improve performance while meeting stringent emission regulations.

Interior Comfort and Technology

The Ford Transit Custom Double Cab Sport offers a spacious and comfortable interior, designed to meet the needs of both drivers and passengers. With its versatile seating configuration and advanced technology features, this vehicle provides a modern and connected driving experience. See Ford Transit Custom Lease deals

Seating Configuration

The Ford Transit Custom Double Cab-In-Van boasts a larger cabin compared to the standard Transit Custom, thanks to the addition of a second row of seats. This configuration increases the seating capacity from up to 3 in the standard van (with a bench seat) to a total of 6 seats. The second row consists of 3 additional seats, which are spacious and offer ample legroom and headroom for passengers. Accessibility has been enhanced with the addition of a second door, allowing crew members to enter and exit from both sides of the vehicle. The seats are made from high-quality materials, providing comfort and support for all occupants during journeys. The second row of seats is positioned against the bulkhead, ensuring a secure and comfortable ride for passengers. See Ford Transit Custom Trail

Infotainment System

At the heart of the Transit Custom’s technology offerings is Ford’s Sync 3 Infotainment System, widely regarded as the most intuitive software system available in modern vans. The 2023 Ford Transit Custom Sport features an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. This allows seamless integration of smartphones, enabling drivers and passengers to access their favorite apps, navigation, and media on the go. see Ford Transit Custom Sport Lease The infotainment system has been designed with user-friendliness in mind, addressing previous issues with fiddly controls. The redesigned interface provides easy access to various functions, making it the benchmark in the medium van sector for in-vehicle technology. See Ford Transit Custom Double Cab Lease

Driver Assistance Features

The Ford Transit Custom Double Cab Sport comes equipped with an array of driver safety and assistance technologies, consistent across all versions of the Transit Custom. These features are designed to enhance the driving experience and improve safety on the road. Some of the key driver assistance features include:

1. Adaptive Cruise Control: This system automatically adjusts the vehicle’s speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead.
2. Lane-Keeping Assist: This feature helps the driver stay within their lane by providing steering input when necessary.
3. Driver-Assist Features: The vehicle includes supplemental driver-assist features that complement the driver’s attention, judgment, and control of the vehicle. However, it’s important to note that these features do not replace the driver’s responsibility.
4. Voice-Operated Systems: To minimize distractions, the Transit Custom Sport encourages the use of voice-operated systems when possible.

It’s worth noting that some features may be locked out while the vehicle is in gear, and not all features are compatible with all phones. Additionally, the availability of optional features may depend on the vehicle series.

Conclusion

The Ford Transit Custom Double Cab Sport has a significant impact on the commercial vehicle market, offering a blend of practicality and style. Its sporty design, coupled with a range of powerful engine options and advanced tech features, makes it a top choice for businesses and families alike. The vehicle’s spacious interior, versatile seating configuration, and ample cargo space further enhance its appeal, catering to a wide array of needs. To sum up, the Transit Custom Double Cab Sport stands out as a well-rounded commercial vehicle. Its combination of performance, comfort, and cutting-edge technology sets a new standard in the van segment. Whether you’re looking for a work vehicle or a family-friendly ride, this Ford model offers a compelling package that’s worth considering.

FAQs

1. How reliable is the Ford Transit Custom? The Ford Transit Custom generally shows good reliability. However, there are occasional issues with cambelt failure, particularly in models with “wet belt” engines. It’s important to check whether your model has a wet belt engine, which can sometimes fail before the recommended replacement interval of seven years or 144,000 miles. 2. What are some common issues with the Ford Transit Custom? Common problems with the Ford Transit Custom include:

• Faults with the central locking system.
• Turbo actuator issues.
• Fuel pump malfunctions.
• Fuel injector problems.
• Powertrain malfunctions.
• Power steering issues.
• Loose hinges.
• Crankshaft pulley failures.

3. Which Ford Transit Custom model is the best to purchase? The best Ford Transit Custom model to buy depends on your specific needs. However, the 2.0 136 EcoBlue engine is highly recommended due to its superior payload and towing capacities within the model range. 4. What is the expected lifespan of a Ford Transit Custom engine? The Ford Transit Custom engine typically has a lifespan of approximately 172,000 miles before it reaches its expected upper limit of longevity.