PRETORIA, SOUTH AFRICA, 19 February 2025 – Ford South Africa has unveiled the new Transit Custom Sport, a dynamic addition to its award-winning light commercial van range. Combining striking design elements with advanced technology and Ford’s renowned load-carrying capability, the Transit Custom Sport brings an exciting edge to the segment.
A Standout in the Van Market
“The all-new Transit Custom introduced unprecedented levels of comfort, safety, and versatility to the van segment. With the launch of the Sport variant, we are further enhancing its appeal, offering a unique product that sets itself apart from the typical ‘white van’ crowd,” says Sunil Sewmohan, Executive Director, Product Marketing Ford South Africa.
As Europe’s best-selling one-ton van and a five-time International Van of the Year winner – including the latest 2024 title – the Transit Custom has established itself as a leader in the market. The Sport variant aims to attract sole traders, owner-operators, and lifestyle-oriented customers who desire a van that merges practicality with personality.
Sporty Styling and Performance
Available exclusively in a short wheelbase configuration, the Transit Custom Sport features a bold new design, including a sport body kit, honeycomb sport grille, rear spoiler, and 17-inch multi-spoke matte black alloy wheels with 215/60 R17 tyres. Dual racing stripes running from the front bumper across the roof and rear doors, along with sport side decals, reinforce its dynamic presence.
Advanced LED headlights with signature daytime running lights and automatic high beam control further enhance the van’s premium appeal. The LED taillights complete the sophisticated exterior aesthetic.
Under the hood, the Transit Custom Sport is powered by an uprated 2.0-litre Single Turbo EcoBlue diesel engine, delivering 125kW and 390Nm of torque – an increase of 25kW and 30Nm over the Base model. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the van offers five selectable Drive Modes: Normal, Eco, Slippery, Tow/Haul, and Sport for a more engaging driving experience.
Premium Interior and Advanced Technology
The cabin of the Transit Custom Sport boasts a sporty yet refined ambiance, featuring seats with blue accent stripes and premium piano black trim around the multi-function display and centre console. The driver benefits from a six-way power-adjustable seat with lumbar support, while the passenger seat offers four-way manual adjustment. Heated seats and dual armrests provide additional comfort.
Technology takes centre stage with a 13-inch landscape touchscreen, integrated with Ford’s SYNC®4 infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A 12-inch instrument cluster with an eight-inch configurable display ensures critical driving information is always at hand. Multiple USB-A and USB-C ports, along with a 12V socket, ensure seamless connectivity and power on the go.
The innovative tilting steering wheel, available as an option later this year, enhances in-cab functionality, transforming into a stand for tablets and laptops or a convenient flat-top table for paperwork and meal breaks.
Unmatched Practicality and Load-Carrying Capability
Built on an all-new platform, the Transit Custom Sport improves interior space, packaging, and accessibility. Measuring 5 050mm in length, it offers a load compartment of 2 602mm up to the bulkhead, with a width of 1 392mm between the wheel arches. The van’s maximum load volume stands at 5.8m³, accommodating up to three Euro pallets and a payload capacity of 1 023kg. A 2 500kg braked towing capacity remains unchanged.
Access is made effortless via twin 180-degree barn doors at the rear and soft-close dual sliding side doors, which can be operated via the door handles, remote control, or dashboard buttons. Inside, six load area tie-down loops, full-height wall protection, and a moulded floor ensure secure and durable cargo management. Bright LED lighting makes working in low-light conditions easy.
Comprehensive Safety and Security Features
Ford has equipped the Transit Custom Sport with a suite of advanced driver-assistance features, including:
- ABS, Electronic Stability Programme, Traction Control
- Hill Launch Assist, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Emergency Brake Assist
- Reverse Brake Assist, Evasive Steer Assist, Pre-Collision Assist with Autonomous Emergency Braking
- Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Monitoring, Driver Alert System
- Lane Keeping Aid, Roll Over Mitigation, Intelligent Speed Assistance
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
A total of six airbags, including a segment-first roof-mounted passenger airbag, ensure comprehensive occupant protection. Parking is made easier with front and rear parking sensors and a 180-degree split-view rear camera.
FordPass Connect provides remote access via a mobile app, enabling functions such as vehicle locking, unlocking, remote start, and real-time vehicle health updates.
Pricing and Ownership Benefits
The Transit Custom Sport Short Wheelbase Van 2.0L SiT 8AT is priced at R938 000 (incl. VAT). The purchase includes:
- 6-year/90 000km Ford Optional Service Plan
- 4-year/120 000km Ford warranty
- 4-year/unlimited distance Roadside Assistance
- 5-year/unlimited distance corrosion warranty
- 2-year/unlimited distance warranty on parts and service
Customers can opt for extended service and maintenance plans up to eight years or 165 000km, as well as extended warranties up to seven years or 200 000km.
Conclusion
With its head-turning design, powerful yet efficient drivetrain, and cutting-edge technology, the Ford Transit Custom Sport redefines what a light commercial van can be. Whether for business or lifestyle needs, this dynamic addition to the Transit Custom range ensures owners get both practicality and personality in one versatile package.
