Mar 2019
2020 Ford Transit Gets AWD Drivetrain, Safety and Convenience Updates
The 2020 Ford Transit received some major upgrades, including an available AWD option, two new engine choices, upgraded safety and interior features, and a 10-speed transmission.
The Transit comes standard with a 3.5L V6, replacing the 3.7L, which should offer better efficiency. A 2.0L bi-turbo inline-four diesel is also available, offering more torque and power than the outgoing 3.2 diesel. The 10-speed auto transmission should help to improve acceleration and fuel economy.
The move to offer an AWD option for the 2020 Ford Transit makes sense. The Mercedes Sprinter has been offered as an AWD since 2015, but other options such as the RAM ProMaster, Nissan NV, and Chevrolet Express are only available in FWD or RWD.
Many parcel delivery, construction, and utility companies employ this type of van, so the need is there. Many of these companies operate in adverse weather conditions and on sub-par roadways.
In regards to convenience, the AWD has the same ride and floor height as the RWD van, ensure ease-of-entry and loading. Power-sliding doors are also being offered for the first time, an incredibly useful feature for Transits being used as shuttles.
Ford also focused on safety and driver convenience. Available safety features include pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection, forward collision warning, post-collision braking, lane keeping assist, and automatic high beam headlights.
Other options include active park assist, front and rear cameras, adaptive cruise control, and an adjustable speed governor. Ford Co-Pilot 360, which comes on the XLT passenger van, includes a blind spot alert system, trailer cover, side and rear sensing, and cross traffic alert.
