2012 Ford VM Transit line-up
For 2012 all Transit models are driven by a new 2.2-litre four-cylinder TDCi diesel, from the family that powers the Ford Ranger utility, with the diesel tuned to two output specifications to suit front and rear wheel drive models. Front-wheel drive models are equipped with a 2.2-litre diesel that produces 92kW/330Nm, while rear-wheel drive variants produce 114kW/385Nm.
This engine provides significantly improved fuel consumption rates and lower CO2 emissions but also increases in maximum power and torque over the 2.4-litre diesel it replaces. Ford claims a combined-cycle fuel consumption improvement of 11 percent to 7.2L/100km with CO2 a class-leading 189g/km.
"I'm certain our Transit customers will welcome the arrival of this new 2.2 TDCi engine and its many benefits," Ford Australia President and CEO Bob Graziano said.
"The additional power and torque will make driving more enjoyable and the increased efficiency is sure to make a difference at the bowser."
The 2.2-litre diesel is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission.
Models
The Transit line-up includes SWB, MWB, LWB and Jumbo Van models in three roof heights, plus single and crew cab chassis variants.
The current VM model range is:
Transit 280 SWB Van Low Roof
Transit 280 MWB Van Low Roof
Transit 330 SWB Van Low Roof
Transit 330 MWB Van Mid Roof
Transit 350 LWB Van Mid Roof
Transit 350 LWB Van High Roof
Transit 350 LWB Jumbo Van High Roof (3550kg GVM)
Transit 460 LWB Jumbo Van High Roof (4490kg GVM)
Transit Single Cab Chassis
Transit Single Cab Chassis Ext Frame
Transit Crew Cab Chassis
Transit Crew Cab Chassis Ext Frame
Cab Chassis models
The Single or Crew Cab are each available with a 4,490kg Gross Vehicle Mass extended frame for longer and heavier loads. All variants have a 3954mm wheelbase and a tidy 13.9 metre turning circle. Up front there are coil springs with McPherson strut and stabilizer bar, and rear leaf springs. Steering is power assisted rack and pinion and brakes are disc all round.
Interior equipment is the same as for the Transit Van.
Cabin
One of the strengths of the Transit is its car-like cabin, which is roomy and well laid out. Comfort starts with the 6-way adjustable driver's seat with fixed armrests and height adjustable head restraint, and a fixed dual passenger seat, with an optional adjustable passenger seat available with fixed armrest and head restraints.
Standard convenience features include air-conditioning, CD player with auxiliary audio input for an iPod or MP3 player, remote audio controls mounted on the steering column, power front windows and power side mirrors plus optional cruise control with leather wrapped steering wheel.
The dashboard includes a tray that provides a useful workspace, a handy car park pass holder, two 2-litre bottle holders and multiple storage compartments including a glovebox, and door pockets. There is also a 12-volt power socket, overhead courtesy light, sun visors and heavy-duty rubber floor covering.
Standard instrumentation consists of speedometer, tachometer, odometer, fuel gauge and water temperature gauge, various warning lights and 2-speed variable intermittent front wipers,
Safety
Inside, there is a driver's airbag, while unfortunately similar protection for the passenger is optional, as is side head/thorax airbags.
ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution is standard across the range.
For added protection there is an optional Professional Pack that includes front passenger airbag, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with Traction Control and Hill Launch Assist, cruise control with leather wrapped steering wheel and reverse parking sensors. Hill Launch Assist makes it easier for drivers to pull away on a slope, without the need to use the parking brake. Driver and passenger are further protected by optional front side airbags that provide increased protection from side impacts in the event of an accident. In terms of vehicle and cargo security, Transit is equipped with an alarm, engine immobiliser and unique security coded keys standard on every vehicle. Transit also helps safeguard your cargo with features such as load area protection kit and power door deadlocks, which make it impossible to open the doors from the inside should an intruder break into the vehicle.
Load area
Transit vans offer a choice of left hand side sliding door with step well, right-hand side sliding with step well or rear twin hinged 180 degree opening door, with rear step bumper. There is a cargo stowage rail positioned in the storage area, load tie-downs, a rear 12-volt power outlet, and an overhead storage compartment on mid and high roof models.