This customized Transit may not match the legendary Ford Supervan’s Pikes Peak record, but it’s readily available for purchase. Sold through Ford Pro in the UK, it’s tailored as a commercial vehicle equipped with Ford Pro software aimed at business and fleet applications.
Despite this, it boasts a body kit, larger wheels, and, if you opt for the electric variant, a slight horsepower bump. Additionally, there’s a new sporty Ranger available for those seeking enhanced utility.
The enhancements are courtesy of MS-RT, affiliated with Ford’s rally racing endeavors at M-Sport. The Transit Custom MS-RT features a bold front fascia with sizable corner vents and an integrated chin spoiler.
Complementing this are side skirts and a rear fascia with an integrated diffuser, contributing to a lowered appearance without altering the suspension. The vehicle gains width through prominent fender flares housing 19-inch wheels wrapped in 235/45-series Goodyear tires sporty yet commercial-rated, fitting for a work van.
Buyers can select from an array of vibrant exterior colors. Inside, the Transit offers bolstered MS-RT sport seats upholstered in synthetic leather and suede. Depending on the intended use, seating configurations range from a single driver seat to accommodating up to five, all adopting the distinctive MS-RT style.
While there are no mechanical enhancements, the electric E-Transit in MS-RT guise benefits from a power increase to 281 hp. Conversely, the Ranger MS-RT boasts mechanical upgrades. Touted as “the ultimate street truck” by Ford, it features firmer front dampers and a retuned rear suspension, resulting in a 1.5-inch drop all around.
Coupled with a body kit, generous fender flares, and 21-inch wheels the widest ever offered on a Ranger this MS-RT variant exudes a formidable street-truck persona. Despite the “ultimate” designation, competitors like the GMC Syclone, second-gen Ford F-150 Lightning, or the Ram SRT-10 might challenge its claim.
Hans Schep, general manager of Ford Pro Europe, remarked, “If Ranger Raptor epitomizes the ultimate off-road truck, then the Ranger MS-RT embodies the ultimate street truck.” Offering a departure from the norm in Europe’s pickup segment, it delivers car-like driving dynamics while maintaining towing and payload capacities.
Ford Pro dealers are now accepting orders, with deliveries slated to commence in mid-2024. Both the Transit Custom and Ranger MS-RT models are exclusively available in Europe. Currently, there’s no indication from Ford regarding similar upgrades reaching US shores.
