SHAH ALAM, July 22 — Ford launched the new, locally-assembled Ford Transit yesterday, filling a vacuum in the market for a large-sized van.
Sold in two main configurations, as a Panel Van and as a Window Van, the Ford Transit will fill that segment of the industry that requires something larger than what the Toyota Hiace has to offer.
The Ford Transit was sold previously here, but a few years back, it was discontinued; the main problem faced by users then was the lack of power despite a 2.5 litre diesel engine. This time, the new Ford Transit is equipped with a smaller capacity 2.2 litre common-rail diesel, but packs a bigger wallop of 155PS and 385Nm of torque. This is almost twice the power of the previously available Transit.
The rear-wheel drive configuration is maintained, and the transmission is now a 6-speed manual. The main users of the Ford Transit would be commercial institutions, and the good thing about the power train is that the engine and transmissions are also used in the Ford Ranger.
The 2.2 litre turbo-diesel has been running in the Ranger for approximately two years now in Malaysia, and with a big population, spare parts will not be a problem.
Recognising that commercial users put a high importance on parts and service, Ford has a network of nine Commercial Vehicle Centres as part of its strategic growth plan for commercial vehicles in Malaysia.
The Ford Transit offers a comprehensive passive and active safety features. In addition to the ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), the Transit also features Electronic Stability Program (ESP) with Brake Traction Control in the Window Van.
For taking off on slopes, there is Hill Launch Assist to prevent the vehicle rolling backwards towards the vehicle behind. Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), which helps to apply additional brake pressure in emergency situations, will be appreciated by many. For the driver and front passenger, there are dual airbags, and for security, Ford has a Passive Anti-theft System (PATS).
Prices for the new Ford Transit on-the-road without insurance (Peninsular Malaysia) are as follows:
Panel Van (High roof): RM139,888 (Company Private Registration)
Window Van (Medium roof): RM146, 888 (Individual Private Registration)
