Ford has announced new range-topping versions of its Transit Custom medium van and Ranger pick-up truck, under the MS-RT performance brand.
The vehicles are said to have been designed and engineered via a close collaboration between Ford’s global team and the specialists at MS-RT – an offshoot of rally team M-Sport.
The Transit Custom MS-RT is available as a fully-electric model, with an uprated 285hp motor, as well as with 170hp or 150hp diesel and 232hp plug-in hybrid powertrains.
Exterior design features include an aerodynamic front bumper with integrated spoiler, sports side skirts, and a sports rear bumper with integrated diffuser. A motorsport-inspired rear spoiler, which comes as a split version for vans using cargo doors, is also included. Electric versions also have an additional coast-to-coast LED light strip between the headlights.
Anthracite 19in alloy wheels are half an inch wider than regular Transit Custom Sport wheels, and fitted with commercial-rated 235/45 R19 Goodyear Eagle Sport tyres.
Inside, there are all-new ergonomic front seats with side bolsters for additional support finished in non-animal Eco-Leather and suede, with MS-RT logos and blue stitching. A sculpted sports steering wheel with blue 12 o’clock marker and stitching is also included.
The Ranger MS-RT comes with a 240hp V6 diesel engine, and features front-end styling said to be inspired by racing trucks, including a honeycomb grille and integrated splitter.
There are also side skirts, a rear bumper with integrated diffuser, tailgate MS-RT graphics, and a ducktail spoiler, complemented by a cab spoiler.
Diamond-cut 21in alloy wheels – the largest ever offered with a Ranger – are fitted with low-profile 275/45 R21 tyres, and sit within flared wheel arches that extend the overall width of the vehicle by 82mm both front and rear.
An optimised suspension set-up features new, firmer dampers at the front, a retuned rear suspension set-up and an overall 40mm height reduction.
The interior features front seats with more supportive bolsters and seat backs, while non-animal Eco-Leather and suede with a distinctive MS-RT pattern and blue stitching feature on both front and rear seats. A heated steering wheel with blue 12 o’clock marker and MS-RT branded inlay is also included.
The new MS-RT models are available to order now from Ford dealers, with the first deliveries expected in mid-2024. Prices are yet to be confirmed, but are expected to be around £49,000 for both models, excluding VAT.
