Used 2019 Ford Transit 350 Van

The 2019 Ford Transit represents one of the most versatile van lineups in the industry. Offered as either a passenger or cargo van, the Transit’s varying wheelbases, roof heights and engine options further increase its flexibility, though Ford won’t be offering an all-wheel-drive version until the 2020 model year. Passenger vans can be configured to accommodate anywhere from two to 15 persons, while the cargo vans can handle payloads as large as 4,640 pounds and tow up to 7,500 pounds. The Transit features Ford’s latest engine technology including a turbocharged V6, 5-cylinder turbodiesel and even a CNG (compressed natural gas) option. With stiff competition from the Ram ProMaster and Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, Ford keeps the Transit competitive with numerous high-tech features and upfitter options.

Driving the 2019 Ford Transit van is easier than its massive appearance might suggest. Despite its tall roof and long, downward sloping windshield, most configurations occupy the same footprint as a full-size F-150 pickup. You’ll need to remember that tall roof when negotiating tree-lined routes where low-hanging branches might pose a problem. The same goes for low-entrance parking garages and drive-thrus. Driving the Transit is a pleasant experience far removed from the old work vans that rode rough and offered zero driver feedback. The Transit’s steering is accurate and easy to work, the suspension is taut without being harsh, and we were amazed at the lack of rattles and squeaks in our test vehicle. Those most concerned with fuel economy will want the 5-cylinder turbodiesel, but if power is your most pressing need, a Transit equipped with the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 is the best option (and the most fun to drive).

Unlike vans of old, the interior of the 2019 Ford Transit is as modern and comfortable as any pickup or SUV. The front seats are wide and supportive, the dash intelligently designed and easy to use (although the touch-screen infotainment system requires a bit of stretching to reach) and there are storage compartments everywhere. Ford has created spaces for extra-large drink cups, cellphones, tablets, laptops and just about anything else that needs a secure spot. A tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel makes it easy to find a comfortable driving position, and the tall seating position allows drivers of all shapes and sizes to get a good view of the road ahead.

The 2019 Ford Transit’s aggressively utilitarian form is defined by function. The three roof heights range from 83.6 inches to 110.1 inches, and the six body lengths from 217.8 inches to 263.9 inches. Whether it’s a panel van painted with your company’s logo or a multi-passenger airport shuttle, the Transit gets 16-inch steel wheels with color-keyed hubcaps, and a black surround on the Aston Martin-inspired grille; wagons get tinted side glass. Long-wheelbase cargo vans have new rear-door hinges that increase the door opening angle from 237 to 253 degrees, while available retracting running boards make entry and exit easier.

FORD TELEMATICS
As a fleet manager, you know time is money, which is why Ford offers the Transit with a sophisticated telematics system. With Ford Telematics, you’ll know when a vehicle is due for service, be able to monitor the driving habits of your employees and keep an eye on fleet fuel consumption.

3.5-LITER V6 ECOBOOST ENGINE
The 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 offers the power of a big V8 with the fuel economy of a diesel. Surprisingly refined, the 3.5-liter delivers ample power for quick off-the-line starts as well as passing power at high speed.

The most basic Transit work truck features a 4-speaker AM/FM stereo, 16-inch wheels and hubcaps, a tilt/telescoping steering wheel, a rearview camera and power windows and locks. You also get industrial-black front and rear bumpers with front lower valance and a rear step, and short-arm, dual power-side mirrors. Passenger models get tinted side windows. Step up to the XL Passenger van and you get 4-speaker audio and full-length side-curtain airbags, while the top-line XLT gets rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlights, a CD player and the Exterior Upgrade Package.

We’ll sidestep the thousands of different ways the Ford Transit can be upfitted for custom work duty. Instead, Ford will sell you a 10-way-power driver’s seat, an engine-block heater and rear parking-aid sensors (get these) for your 2019 Transit. Other options include extendable heated mirrors, Ford Telematics, leather seating, dual sliding-side doors, cruise control, keyless entry, and Sync 3 with a 6-inch touch screen and navigation. There’s also lane-keeping assist plus other safety upgrades available. A CNG/LPG (liquid petroleum gas) engine-prep package is available for models equipped with the 3.7-liter V6 engine.

There are three engine choices available for the Ford Transit. Standard issue is a 3.7-liter V6 putting out 275 horsepower, and which can be configured to run on compressed natural gas. Power-hungry customers can opt for the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6, a twin-turbocharged engine that produces 310 horsepower. Then there’s the 3.2-liter 5-cylinder Power Stroke turbodiesel, aimed at those who need low-end torque and good fuel economy, although the EPA does not rate the diesel. All engines drive the rear wheels through a 6-speed automatic transmission.

3.7-liter V6
275 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm
260 lb-ft of torque @ 4,000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 14/18 mpg (cargo)

3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6
310 horsepower @ 5,500 rpm
400 lb-ft of torque @ 2,500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 15/19 mpg

3.2-liter turbocharged diesel inline-5
185 horsepower @ 3,000 rpm
350 lb-ft of torque @ 1,500-2,500 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: not rated by EPA