2023 Ford Transit

• Standard V6 engine now includes start-stop technology
• Newly optional rearview mirror with camera display

When you build your own Transit, your options seem endless. First off, this commercial van is available as either a passenger or cargo model. Next, you can choose between a standard or long wheelbase. The regular, long, and extended body styles allow you to further tailor interior space to suit your needs. Then you can choose between a low, medium, or high roof, potentially creating even more interior space. There are three payload ratings: 150, 250, and 350. Each allows you to increase the GVWR over the last. There’s even a Transit 350HD model with dual rear wheels to help you max out your muscle.

With the Transit Passenger Van, there are quite a few seating arrangements available. Depending on configuration, the Passenger Van can seat up to 15 passengers. But you can also choose configurations with two, eight, 10, 12, or 14 seats.

The Passenger Van is available as two trim models: the base XL and mid-grade XLT. The XL is pretty basic, with cloth seats, vinyl flooring, and power windows and door locks. But it also includes some tech features, such as a 4-inch audio display, two USB ports, and Bluetooth connectivity. The Ford Co-Pilot360 package is also standard, supplying helpful safety aids such as forward collision mitigation and lane departure mitigation.

The Passenger Van XLT adds upgrades like fog lights, full-length carpeting, and the SYNC infotainment system. The latter includes a 12-inch infotainment touchscreen and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity. This mid-grade trim model also increases safety, with blind-spot warning and parking sensors.

Meanwhile, the Cargo Van’s standard lineup is similar to that of the Passenger Van, but it adds a few features, including fog lights and remote engine start. The Cargo Van also comes standard with the SYNC setup, including the 12-inch touchscreen. It’s not available as trim models, but you can add optional features to the base lineup if you so choose, including blind-spot warning and adaptive cruise control.

There are two engine options for both the Transit Cargo and Passenger Vans:

• Standard 3.5-liter V6 (275 horsepower, 262 lb-ft of torque)
• Optional turbocharged 3.5L V6 (310 hp, 400 lb-ft)
• 10-speed automatic transmission
• Standard rear-wheel drive
• Optional all-wheel drive

When it comes to towing and hauling your commercial items, the Transit is a very strong contender. Depending on how you configure this van, it can haul max payloads of 4,230 pounds. Towing capacity reaches 4,300 pounds.