The old 2-litre Duratorqs have been dropped in favour of three 2.2-litre unitswhich are rated at 85, 110, and 130hp. All common rail and turbocharged they are streets ahead of the old engines in terms of refinement and torque delivery. They were developed in conjunction with PSA, Citroën and Peugeot’s parentcompany. They develop 250Nm, 285Nm and 311Nm of peak torque respectively and drive the front wheels via a five-speedmanual gearbox.

Go for a rear-wheel drive Transit and it’s one of the three 2.4-litre Duratorqs under the bonnet. There’s a choice of 100, 115 and 140hp versions with the two highest powered benefitting from a six-speed ’box. There’s also a 2.3-litre petrol engine for those who want to convert to LPG to beat the London congestion tax. Disc brakes are now fitted all round and as before, all Transits have ABS fittedas standard.Three wheelbases, four body lengths and three roof heights provide load space of between 6.1m³ and 14.3m³. A nearside sliding side door comes as standard.

The cab has had a complete makeover with new seats and dashboard, and Ford has finally given in and moved the gearchange to the facia. The result is a very civilised working environment which has a host of useful features and storage potential.Servicing is required every 15,000 miles and the mechanical warranty is three years/100,000 miles.

VERDICT

What a difference a generation makes. These are the best Transits ever.