Ford Transit Double Cab: Versatility Meets Performance

The Ford Transit Double Cab stands out as a versatile workhorse in the commercial vehicle market. Combining the practicality of a van with the comfort of a passenger vehicle, it has become a go-to choice for businesses and individuals alike. This adaptable vehicle offers a unique blend of cargo capacity and passenger accommodation, making it ideal for a wide range of applications. Source This guide delves into the key features that make the Ford Transit Double Cab a popular choice. It explores the vehicle’s engine performance, interior comfort, and advanced technology. The article also examines its impressive cargo capacity and versatility, providing insights into its various configurations. Additionally, it discusses pricing options and the overall value proposition, helping potential buyers make an informed decision about this multipurpose vehicle. See all our Ford Van Lease Deals

Overview of Ford Transit Double Cab

The Ford Transit Double Cab is a versatile vehicle that bridges the gap between commercial vans and passenger vehicles. This variant of the popular Ford Transit Custom caters to the medium van market, combining the functionality of a cargo van with the comfort and practicality of a passenger vehicle. It’s an ideal choice for businesses and families alike, offering a unique blend of features that set it apart in the commercial vehicle market. See all our Ford Transit vans for sale

Key Features

The Ford Transit Double Cab boasts several standout features that make it a popular choice:

1. Flexible seating: The van accommodates up to six people, with three seats in the front and an additional three in the second row. This configuration is perfect for transporting work crews or larger families.
2. Dual access: With sliding doors on both sides, passengers can easily enter and exit the vehicle from either side, enhancing convenience and accessibility. See all our Ford Vans For Sale
3. Spacious cargo area: Despite the addition of extra seating, the Double Cab still offers a generous load space of 4.3 cubic meters, making it suitable for various cargo-carrying needs.
4. Impressive payload: The vehicle has a payload capacity of 1163kg, excluding passenger weight, ensuring it can handle substantial loads for work or leisure purposes.
5. Comfort and technology: The cabin is equipped with features typically found in passenger cars, including air conditioning, Bluetooth connectivity, and a user-friendly dashboard design similar to Ford’s popular hatchbacks.
6. Driving experience: The Transit Custom Double Cab offers car-like handling with quick, accurate steering and a punchy turbodiesel engine, making it easy to maneuver despite its size.

Design and Esthetics Ford Transit Double Cab

The Ford Transit Double Cab features a thoughtful design that balances functionality with esthetics. The Double Cab-In-Van version includes glass-filled sliding doors on both sides, providing a sleek appearance while maintaining practicality. The second row of seats is seamlessly integrated into the enlarged cabin, which is separated from the cargo area by a bulkhead. This design ensures a comfortable passenger experience without compromising on load space. The exterior of the vehicle maintains the recognizable Ford Transit styling, with a modern and professional appearance that suits both business and personal use. The interior design focuses on driver and passenger comfort, with a layout that resembles Ford’s popular hatchbacks, creating a familiar and user-friendly environment.

Target Market

The Ford Transit Double Cab caters to a wide range of users who require both people-carrying capabilities and cargo space. Its target market includes:

1. Businesses: Companies that need to transport both personnel and equipment, such as construction firms or service providers.
2. Tradespeople: Professionals who require space for tools and materials while also needing to transport a team.
3. Active families: Those who need a spacious vehicle for daily use and weekend adventures, with room for passengers and gear.
4. Shuttle services: Organizations that provide transportation for small groups along with their luggage or equipment.

The vehicle’s versatility makes it suitable for various use cases, from work-related tasks to leisure activities. Its ability to carry up to six people while still offering significant cargo space makes it an excellent choice for those who need a multi-purpose vehicle that can adapt to different situations. The Ford Transit Double Cab stands out as a highly adaptable vehicle that combines the best aspects of commercial vans and passenger vehicles. Its blend of seating capacity, cargo space, and driving comfort makes it a compelling option for a diverse range of users in both professional and personal contexts.

Engine Performance and Efficiency

The Ford Transit Double Cab has undergone significant improvements in its engine performance and efficiency over the years. The vehicle now boasts a range of powerful and economical engines that cater to various needs and preferences.

2.0-liter EcoBlue Engine

At the heart of the Ford Transit Double Cab lies the advanced 2.0-liter EcoBlue diesel engine. This engine replaced the original Euro 5 specification 2.2-liter turbodiesel engines in 2017 to meet Euro 6 emission standards. The EcoBlue engine represents a new generation of high-performance diesel engines designed for business and hard work. In 2019, Ford further enhanced the 2.0-liter EcoBlue engines with new turbochargers, pistons, injectors, and an on-demand oil pump. These upgrades have resulted in improved real-world fuel economy by approximately 7%. The EcoBlue engine builds on the industry-leading performance and technology of Ford’s award-winning EcoBoost petrol engines, offering more power, cleaner emissions, refinement, and efficiency with low running costs. One of the standout features of the EcoBlue engine is its impressive low-end torque. It delivers 20% more torque early in the rev range compared to its predecessor, which translates to enhanced driveability on the road. This improvement is noticeable across all power outputs, even in the least powerful 105hp version, which performs strongly even with a 600kg test weight.

Fuel Economy Ford Transit Double Cab

The Ford Transit Double Cab’s EcoBlue engine has made significant strides in fuel efficiency. Compared to the previous 2.2-liter TDCi engine, the new EcoBlue diesel engine enhances fuel efficiency by up to 13%. Fuel consumption starts from as low as 46.3 mpg (6.1 L/100 km) for the 105 PS variant. The 2019 upgrades to the 2.0-liter engines promise a 7% greater real-world fuel economy. However, it’s worth noting that the on-paper best fuel economy for these upgraded engines is slightly lower at 40.9 mpg. Ford has also introduced EcoBlue Hybrid models, which are said to bring a further 3% fuel economy improvement in general driving and 8% in urban driving. Here’s a breakdown of the fuel economy for different engine variants:

Engine Output	Urban (L/100km)	Extra Urban (L/100km)	Combined (L/100km)	CO2 g/km (average)
105 PS	7.5	6.4	6.8	176
130 PS	7.6	6.6	6.9	179
170 PS	8.3	6.8	7.3	189

Power Output

The Ford Transit Double Cab offers a range of power outputs to suit different needs. The 2.0-liter EcoBlue engine is available in several variants:

1. 105 PS (77 kW) with 360 Nm of torque
2. 130 PS (96 kW) with 385 Nm of torque
3. 170 PS (125 kW) with 405 Nm of torque
4. 185 PS with 415 Nm of torque (added in the 2019 facelift)

The 105 PS variant, despite being the least powerful, still delivers strong performance. The 170 PS engine, developing an impressive 405 Nm of torque, is ideal for moving heavy loads and towing while maintaining excellent fuel efficiency. All these engines deliver peak power at 3500 rpm, while maximum torque is available from as low as 1375 rpm, ensuring responsive performance across a wide range of driving conditions. The engines feature DOHC with 4 valves per cylinder, contributing to their efficiency and performance. The Ford Transit Double Cab’s engine lineup demonstrates a commitment to balancing power, efficiency, and environmental responsibility. With its range of EcoBlue engines, the vehicle offers businesses and individuals a versatile and economical solution for their transportation needs.

Interior Comfort and Technology

The Ford Transit Double Cab-In-Van offers a spacious and comfortable interior, designed to meet the needs of both drivers and passengers. The cabin has been thoughtfully crafted to provide a blend of functionality and comfort, making it an ideal choice for businesses and families alike.

Seating Configuration

The Double Cab-In-Van version of the Ford Transit Custom increases the seating capacity significantly. While the standard van accommodates up to three people with a bench seat, the Double Cab-In-Van adds a second row of three seats, bringing the total capacity to six. This configuration is perfect for transporting work crews or larger families. The second row of seats is spacious, offering ample legroom and headroom for passengers. These seats are positioned against the bulkhead, which separates the passenger area from the cargo space. This design not only enhances comfort but also ensures the safety of passengers by keeping them separated from the cargo area. Accessibility has been improved with the addition of a second door, allowing passengers to enter and exit from both sides of the vehicle. This feature is particularly useful for quick and efficient loading and unloading of passengers in various work or family scenarios.

Infotainment System

At the heart of the Transit Double Cab’s technology offerings is Ford’s Sync 3 Infotainment System. This system is widely regarded as the benchmark in the medium van sector, known for its intuitive interface and user-friendly operation. The Sync 3 system provides drivers and passengers with a seamless connection to their digital world while on the move. However, it’s important to note that users should exercise caution when using the system. Ford advises against driving while distracted or using handheld devices. Instead, they recommend using voice-operated features whenever possible to ensure safety. Some features may be locked out while the vehicle is in gear, and not all features are compatible with all phones. The cabin also boasts excellent connectivity options. USB sockets and 12V outlets are standard, allowing occupants to charge their devices on the go. For those with more power-hungry equipment, there’s even an option to have a 240V socket fitted, further enhancing the vehicle’s versatility.

Driver Assistance Features

The Ford Transit Double Cab-In-Van comes equipped with an array of driver safety and assistance technologies, mirroring those found across all versions of the Ford Transit Custom. These features are designed to enhance safety and ease the driving experience. One notable feature is the Pre-collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking. This system can detect pedestrians and help avoid or reduce the severity of a collision. However, Ford emphasizes that this feature is supplemental and does not replace the driver’s attention, judgment, and need to control the vehicle. It’s important to understand that while this system can detect pedestrians, it may not do so in all conditions. The 2018 update of the Ford Transit Custom brought significant improvements to the cabin design. The previously fiddly controls were redesigned for better usability. Additional storage options were added, including more cup holders and improved space for seating. The Double Cab-In-Van version benefits from these enhancements, including the excellent under-seat storage, which provides a convenient place for storing tools or personal items out of sight. These interior comfort features and technological advancements make the Ford Transit Double Cab-In-Van a standout choice in the medium van sector. It offers a comfortable, connected, and safe environment for both work and family use, striking a balance between practicality and modern convenience.

Cargo Capacity and Versatility

The Ford Transit Double Cab stands out for its impressive cargo capacity and versatility, making it an ideal choice for businesses and individuals who require a balance between passenger transport and cargo hauling. This section explores the key aspects that contribute to the vehicle’s adaptability and practicality.

Load Space Dimensions Ford Transit Double Cab

The Ford Transit Double Cab offers a range of configurations to suit various needs. The vehicle comes in three body lengths, two roof heights, and two wheelbase lengths, providing options for different cargo requirements. The maximum load capacity reaches 15.1 cubic meters in the largest L4H3 configuration, which, while not the absolute highest in its class, still offers substantial space for most applications. Load space dimensions vary depending on the specific model:

• Maximum load width: 1,784mm across all variants
• Width between wheelarches: 1,392mm (reducing to 1,154mm on twin rear wheel models)
• Maximum load length: Ranges from 3,044mm in shorter models to 4,217mm in the L4 variant
• Maximum load height: Varies between 1,786mm and 2,125mm, depending on the roof height and drive configuration

It’s worth noting that front-wheel drive (FWD) models generally offer greater load capacity than their rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) counterparts, both in terms of maximum load height and cubic capacity.

Payload Capacity

The Ford Transit Double Cab has seen improvements in its payload capacity, particularly following the 2019 facelift. Weight-saving measures, including an aluminum bonnet, redesigned rear axle, and specialized wheel manufacturing techniques, have increased payload ratings by up to 80kg on rear-wheel drive models and 48kg on front-wheel drive models. Payload capacities vary depending on the specific configuration:

• FWD L2H2 Double Cab-in-Van (DCiV): 1,316kg
• RWD L2H2 DCiV: 1,229kg
• AWD L2H2 DCiV: 1,123kg

The absolute maximum payload for a 2.0-liter Ford Transit of this generation reaches 2,209kg, available in the 470 L4H3 model with a 4.7-ton gross vehicle weight (GVW).

Flexible Storage Options

The Ford Transit Double Cab offers a range of flexible storage solutions to maximize its versatility:

1. Modular Plywood Van Racking Systems: These systems provide an excellent balance of flexibility, durability, and cost-effectiveness. They allow for custom configurations to fit specific tools and equipment, enabling easy reorganization as needs change.
2. Double Floor: A raised floor creates large storage possibilities while maintaining accessibility and ergonomic design. The loading bay remains clear, serving as a work surface with the option for additional equipment on top.
3. Accessories: Smart boxes, dividers, plastic bins, drawer dividers, assortment holders, ladder holders, and folding racks can be combined with the vehicle’s interior equipment to enhance organization.
4. Roof Equipment: Racks, lashing eyes, ladder holders, cargo holders, pipe sleeves, and roof platforms offer additional storage options that are easily accessible.
5. Bed Cap and Tonneau Cover: These additions create protected spaces from weather and theft, adding an extra layer of security for valuable cargo.
6. Interior Cladding: Made of Sandwich Polypropylene, this protective layer shields the interior steel panels and paint from bumps and scratches while enhancing the vehicle’s appearance.

These flexible storage options significantly improve the organization of tools and equipment, reducing clutter and enhancing overall workflow efficiency. The modular design ensures that users can have as little or as much storage capacity as needed, with the flexibility to upgrade in the future.

Pricing and Value Proposition

The Ford Transit Double Cab offers a compelling value proposition, combining versatility with competitive pricing across its range of model variants. This section explores the pricing structure, model options, and the total cost of ownership for potential buyers.

Model Variants Ford Transit Double Cab

Ford has designed the Transit range to cater to every corner of the light commercial vehicle (LCV) market. The Transit Double Cab is available in various configurations, including different body lengths, roof heights, and wheelbase options. This flexibility allows businesses to choose a model that best suits their specific needs. The Transit Double Cab is part of the larger Transit family, which includes:

1. Transit Courier: The smallest van, ideal for urban use and local deliveries.
2. Transit Connect: A versatile small to mid-sized van.
3. Transit Custom: The most popular Transit van, now equipped with advanced technology.
4. Transit: The largest and most capable van in the family, trusted worldwide.

Each of these models is available in various trim levels, from the entry-level Leader variants to the top-of-the-range Limited models. This tiered approach allows customers to balance features and cost according to their requirements.

Competitive Pricing

While specific pricing for the Ford Transit Double Cab is typically available on application (POA), it’s important to note that Ford has positioned the vehicle competitively within its segment. The pricing structure is designed to offer value across different budget ranges and business sizes. For context, here’s a comparison of pricing for different van sizes in the market:

1. Small Van (e.g., Ford Transit Courier): Starting from approximately £16,074 (inc. VAT)
2. Medium Van (e.g., Ford Transit Custom): Starting from around £26,274 (inc. VAT)
3. Large Van (e.g., Mercedes-Benz Sprinter): Starting from about £41,748 (inc. VAT)

While these figures don’t directly represent the Transit Double Cab, they provide a general idea of the pricing landscape in the van market. The Double Cab, being a specialized variant, would likely fall between the medium and large van price points, depending on the specific configuration.

Total Cost of Ownership

When considering the value proposition of the Ford Transit Double Cab, it’s crucial to look beyond the initial purchase price and consider the total cost of ownership (TCO). This includes factors such as fuel efficiency, maintenance costs, depreciation, and residual value. Key components of the TCO for the Transit Double Cab include:

1. Fuel Costs: Ford has made significant strides in improving fuel efficiency across its Transit range. The exact fuel economy will depend on the specific engine and configuration chosen.
2. Maintenance and Repair: Ford’s extensive dealer network and the popularity of the Transit range mean that maintenance and repair costs are generally competitive.
3. Depreciation: Vans typically depreciate at a rate of around 25% per year. However, the Transit’s strong brand reputation and popularity in the used market can help maintain its value.
4. Insurance: Insurance costs will vary based on the specific model and the business’s circumstances.
5. Vehicle Excise Duty (VED): This is an ongoing cost that needs to be factored into the TCO calculations.

To minimize ongoing costs, Ford offers various financing options, including Hire Purchase, Lease Purchase, Finance Lease (for business users), and Contract Hire (both personal and business). These flexible options allow businesses to structure their payments in a way that best suits their financial situation. It’s worth noting that VAT-registered businesses can reclaim VAT on vehicles used for commercial purposes, which can significantly impact the overall cost for eligible buyers.

Conclusion Ford Transit Double Cab

The Ford Transit Double Cab stands out as a versatile and capable vehicle, bridging the gap between passenger comfort and cargo capacity. Its blend of features, including flexible seating, ample cargo space, and advanced technology, makes it a top choice for businesses and families alike. The vehicle’s improved engine performance and fuel efficiency, coupled with its competitive pricing, contribute to its strong value proposition in the commercial vehicle market. To wrap up, the Ford Transit Double Cab has an impact on the commercial vehicle landscape, offering a unique solution to those needing both people-carrying abilities and substantial cargo space. Its range of configurations and options allows users to tailor the vehicle to their specific needs, while its focus on comfort and technology ensures a pleasant driving experience. For businesses and individuals looking for a multipurpose vehicle that doesn’t compromise on functionality or comfort, the Ford Transit Double Cab is definitely worth considering.

FAQs

What are some common issues with the Ford Transit? The Ford Transit van is known to encounter several problems, including transmission issues primarily in its earlier models, fuel pump failures which can cause the engine to stall, electrical problems affecting dashboard instruments and lighting, and suspension components that may wear out and need replacement. Why is the Ford Transit considered a top choice? The Ford Transit is highly regarded due to its robust engine performance coupled with impressive fuel efficiency. Its overall low operating costs make it a reliable and economical choice for a commercial vehicle. Can you share some interesting facts about the Ford Transit? The Ford Transit has a colorful history, including being labeled by Scotland Yard as the “perfect getaway vehicle” for bank raids. Additionally, it has impressive feats such as a record jump over 15 old cars by Steve Matthews and a remarkable journey of over 7,500 miles across the Sahara desert. Before its production even began, Ford received orders worth £33 million for the Transit. What is the fuel efficiency of the 2022 Ford Transit 150 Passenger Van? The 2022 Ford Transit 150 Passenger Van achieves a fuel economy of 17 miles per gallon (MPG) overall, with 15 MPG in urban settings and 19 MPG on highways.