2026 Ford Transit Custom Trail

The 2026 Ford Transit Custom Trail takes the practical medium-van formula and gives it a more adventurous brief. Based on the long-wheelbase Transit Custom Trend, it adds on-demand all-wheel drive, additional underbody protection, increased ground clearance and light-terrain tyres, creating a van better suited to rough access roads and changing weather than a conventional front-drive commercial vehicle.

Its appeal is clearest when the route leaves the bitumen. The electronically controlled rear-axle clutch engages unobtrusively when traction is needed, helping the front end avoid the wheel scrabble that can affect a loaded or lightly loaded van on loose surfaces. It is not intended to replace a dedicated four-wheel-drive utility vehicle, but within the limits of its commercial-grade tyres and 118mm of ground clearance, it is notably more capable than an ordinary van on dirt, sand, snow and corrugated roads.

Power comes from Ford's familiar 2.0-litre EcoBlue turbo-diesel, producing 125kW and 390Nm and driving through an eight-speed automatic transmission. The combination provides useful flexibility for a large vehicle, while the 70-litre fuel tank supports long stretches between refuelling stops. Ford claims combined consumption of 8.5 litres per 100km for the all-wheel-drive Trail, and the review vehicle returned less than that in testing. The resulting theoretical range is approximately 870km.

Practicality remains central to the Trail's character. Its 6.8 cubic metres of cargo capacity provide room for luggage, equipment and supplies, while the cabin includes open storage areas, covered cubbies and five cup holders. The long-wheelbase body measures 5.45 metres, so it offers meaningful carrying capacity but demands care in tight spaces. Van-sized blind spots and the 3.5-metre wheelbase make parking more dependent on the camera system than in a smaller vehicle.

On the road, independent rear suspension gives the Trail a more settled response than the live-axle arrangements still common in this class. Broken surfaces are dealt with composure, while the steering and body control make the van surprisingly manageable on winding mountain roads. It remains a tall, substantial commercial vehicle rather than a sports car, but it can maintain traffic pace without feeling cumbersome.

Cold-weather equipment adds to its appeal for journeys into alpine regions. Full-LED high beam improves visibility on dark, uneven roads, while the Quickclear heated windscreen, heated seats and climate control help clear frost and maintain comfort when temperatures fall sharply. A Slippery drive mode also allows the driver to moderate throttle response on compacted snow and ice.

The cabin is not without shortcomings. Adaptive cruise control can react too readily to shadows and roadside signs, while the lane-keeping system may feel intrusive. The 13-inch SYNC 4 touchscreen looks modern but introduces some delay and places many climate and vehicle functions behind menus. Rear visibility is also compromised at night by reflections from the infotainment display, and the rear camera does not provide the top-down perspective available from some rivals.

Overall, the Transit Custom Trail is a distinctive interpretation of a working van. It combines substantial load space and diesel touring range with traction and protection that make remote, unsealed or snow-affected routes more accessible, while retaining the everyday usability expected of a modern commercial vehicle.

Other highlights include Condition: New; Transmission: 8-speed automatic; Engine or motor: 2.0-litre EcoBlue turbo diesel, 125kW and 390Nm; Exterior colour: Grey.