The Van That Even Your Mother-In-Law Will Approve Of
Think vans can’t be cool? Think again. Ford’s new Transit Custom Sport is here to put a cheeky grin on your face and maybe even get your neighbours gossiping. It takes the reliable, award-winning Transit Custom – winner of the 2024 International Van of the Year – and gives it a sporty makeover that’ll have you smiling at the shops (or possibly just around the block… repeatedly).
At first glance, you’ll spot the bold dual racing stripes streaking from the front bumper all the way to those handy twin barn doors at the back. This short wheelbase hero also struts around on 17-inch matte black alloys with 215/60 R17 tyres – they won’t exactly win you a drag race, but they’ll definitely look good getting you to your next delivery or weekend adventure.
Under the hood, there’s an updated 2.0-litre Single Turbo EcoBlue diesel generating a lively 125kW and 390Nm of torque (that’s a nifty 25kW and 30Nm more than the standard Transit Custom Base, for the math nerds). Mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, you even get to pick from five Drive Modes: Normal, Eco, Slippery, Tow/Haul, and (cue dramatic music) Sport.
Inside, the Transit Custom Sport continues to show off. The cabin has sport trim with blue accents to match that swanky piano black centre console, not to mention heated seats and a 13‑inch landscape touchscreen (with SYNC®4, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto) angled toward the driver for maximum convenience. Expect to feel ultra-important with a 12-inch instrument cluster that includes an eight-inch configurable display – so you’ll never miss your favourite playlist or that crucial email from your boss.
As for practicality, it’s still a Transit Custom at heart. Up to 5.8m³ of load volume, up to 1 023kg of payload, and space for three Euro pallets in the back. Plus, the powered sliding doors and tie-down loops mean you’re fully equipped whether you’re hauling surfboards, carrots, or questionable antique furniture.
Safety? Oh, it’s got it all: ABS, Electronic Stability Programme, Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Monitoring, and a total of six airbags – including a roof-mounted one for the front passenger. Because even your comedic adventures deserve top-notch protection.
If all that sounds like a party on wheels, the price tag stands at R 938 000 (VAT included). This includes a 6 year/90 000km Ford Optional Service Plan, a 4-year/120 000km warranty, 4-year/unlimited distance Roadside Assistance, and a 5-year/unlimited distance corrosion warranty. You can also extend service plans, warranties, and roadside assistance because, well, Ford knows real love never truly ends.
So go ahead – ditch the “white van” image. With the new Transit Custom Sport, you’ll be the coolest operator in town, and your dog might finally prefer riding in the back instead of sticking his head out the window of your old jalopy. Go forth, load up, and look sporty doing it!
Images : © Ford
