2020 Ford Transit Passenger Van Review
2020 Ford Transit Passenger Van Review
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Good
7.9
out of 10
edmunds TESTED
The Ford Transit is one of the most capable vehicles on the road today. Our test van came in the 14-passenger, heavy-duty, high-roof, extra-long, dual-rear-wheel configuration. That's a mouthful, but what it means is that it can hold maximum cargo, transport large groups with ease, and tow a big trailer. Under the hood is an impressive turbocharged 3.5-liter V6, and inside is the easy-to-use Sync infotainment system. There are some drawbacks, such as poor fuel economy and a less-than-ideal driving position, but the Transit is still a runaway class leader.
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2020 Ford Transit Passenger Van Review
byReese Counts
Vehicle Test Editor
Reese Counts has worked in the automotive industry since he started as an intern at Edmunds in 2015. He has written or edited thousands of car-related articles and tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Reese is a vehicle test editor at Edmunds and has also contributed to Autoblog. Reese has also been featured on Yahoo! Finance, Engadget and AOL reviewing cars and covering automotive technology, auto shows and more. Reese learned to drive in his father's C4 Chevrolet Corvette and now owns his grandfather's 1999 Mercedes-Benz C43 AMG. A love for cars runs deep in his family.
Pros
- Many configurations are available
- Strong turbocharged V6 engine available
- Pleasant road manners for a van
- Sync 3 infotainment system is easy to use
Cons
- A bit less towing capability than some rival vans
- Turbocharged V6 is very thirsty
What's new
- New engines provide more power
- New 10-speed automatic standard across the board
- All-wheel drive is now available
- Enhancements throughout the model range
- Part of the first Transit generation introduced for 2015
Overview
The 2020 Ford Transit's versatile and customizable nature makes it a boon for van shoppers needing maximum people-carrying capabilities. Today's minivans might offer features the Transit can only dream of, but they can't match the Transit's size or seating for up to 15 people.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2020 Ford Transit Passenger Van 150 XL Low Roof 3dr Van w/130" WB (3.5L 6cyl 10A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of N/A undefined in Virginia.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
Not EPA tested for Transit Passenger Van 150 XL Low Roof
Transit Passenger Van 150 XL Low Roof
vs
$276/mo
Avg. Midsize Van
Ford has added a number of new features for 2020, including a new base V6 engine and 10-speed automatic transmission that should help improve fuel economy. All-wheel drive is available for the first time as well. As for features, Ford has added a collection of driver assist features, including forward collision mitigation, plus new interior technology features such as a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot.
The Transit itself remains unchanged. It's still basically a box on wheels fitted with several rows of seating or space for cargo. That's par for the course with this class of vans. Maximum seating, minimum frills. Competitors might offer a few more modern amenities or a bit more maximum towing power, but the Transit is a strong player and a worthwhile consideration for those looking for lots of utility at a reasonable price.
Edmunds Expert Rating
Our VerdictThe Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.
Good
7.9
out of 10
edmunds TESTED
The Ford Transit is one of the most capable vehicles on the road today. Our test van came in the 14-passenger, heavy-duty, high-roof, extra-long, dual-rear-wheel configuration. That's a mouthful, but what it means is that it can hold maximum cargo, transport large groups with ease, and tow a big trailer. Under the hood is an impressive turbocharged 3.5-liter V6, and inside is the easy-to-use Sync infotainment system. There are some drawbacks, such as poor fuel economy and a less-than-ideal driving position, but the Transit is still a runaway class leader.
Rated for you by America's best test team.Performance
8.5/10
How does the Transit Passenger Van drive? The turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 gives the Transit tons of character. Acceleration is easy and smooth around town thanks to the 10-speed automatic transmission, and when you need to climb a mountain or speed away from the light, the EcoBoost engine has you covered. At our test track, the Transit did the run from 0 to 60 mph in 8.7 seconds. That's really moving for a vehicle this large and heavy.
Typical braking feels easy and responsive, but the Transit took a bit longer to make panic stops than other vans we've tested in this class. The Transit's steering gives you a decent feel for the road and easily returns to center after turning. Handling is a bit of a shocker since this giant van is actually pretty fun to drive, even if you haven't converted it into a party bus.
Typical braking feels easy and responsive, but the Transit took a bit longer to make panic stops than other vans we've tested in this class. The Transit's steering gives you a decent feel for the road and easily returns to center after turning. Handling is a bit of a shocker since this giant van is actually pretty fun to drive, even if you haven't converted it into a party bus.
Comfort
7.5/10
How comfortable is the Transit Passenger Van? The Transit offers a surprisingly good ride, even in this heavy-duty 14-passenger configuration. Most big bumps are soaked up, and only the sharpest of impacts make their way into the cabin. Road and wind noise is pretty noticeable thanks to the big profile, but that's to be expected. Even so, it's not as loud as some competitors.
The driver's seat, while a bit awkwardly positioned, is supportive and comfortable on long trips. The rear seats are a bit flatter and less comfortable, but they're totally acceptable for a heavy-duty van. The climate control system keeps the cavernous cabin cool on hot days, and optional heated front seats warm up nicely on colder days.
The driver's seat, while a bit awkwardly positioned, is supportive and comfortable on long trips. The rear seats are a bit flatter and less comfortable, but they're totally acceptable for a heavy-duty van. The climate control system keeps the cavernous cabin cool on hot days, and optional heated front seats warm up nicely on colder days.
Interior
8/10
How’s the interior? Climbing into and out of a large van like the Transit will always be a bit difficult, but the wide-opening front and side doors make it easier. Once you're inside, the driver controls are well laid out, with large knobs for the climate control and intuitive buttons on the dashboard and steering wheel. And unless you're loading in 14 NFL linebackers, the cabin should be roomy enough for almost any group.
The driving position is a low point for the Transit, offering a sort of top-down view of the dash, with a long reach to the steering wheel for taller drivers. Forward visibility is excellent, but a big pillar behind the driver obscures the immediate view to the side. Blind-spot monitoring helps a great deal here. A high-mounted wide-angle rearview camera and big side mirrors also help in getting this big van into relatively tight spaces.
The driving position is a low point for the Transit, offering a sort of top-down view of the dash, with a long reach to the steering wheel for taller drivers. Forward visibility is excellent, but a big pillar behind the driver obscures the immediate view to the side. Blind-spot monitoring helps a great deal here. A high-mounted wide-angle rearview camera and big side mirrors also help in getting this big van into relatively tight spaces.
Technology
8/10
How’s the tech? Ford's optional Sync infotainment system is a must-have in the Transit. It has a clear 8-inch display for the navigation screen, easy-to-use voice controls, and smartphone integration for both Apple and Android devices. The eight-speaker stereo that comes with the Sync system isn't as impressive, but it gets the job done. Six USB ports and two 12-volt outlets should keep most of your devices charged too.
A number of driver aids are available on the Transit. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert come standard. Adaptive cruise control is optional, as is a split-view front camera — both of which performed adequately during our test.
A number of driver aids are available on the Transit. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert come standard. Adaptive cruise control is optional, as is a split-view front camera — both of which performed adequately during our test.
Storage
8.5/10
How’s the storage? The massive dimensions of the high-roof, long-wheelbase Transit allow for a great deal of interior storage. Under the seats, there's plenty of room for luggage, and small items can be stored in a number of front cubbies. The cupholders are large, deep and numerous, lining the cabin for all those late-night 14-person fast-food runs. As many as 11 car seats can be loaded in, though attaching them to the lower tethers may be a bit time-consuming.
Hauling capabilities with the Transit are right near the top of the class, and depending on equipment, the Transit has a maximum payload capacity of 4,230 pounds. Max towing is behind class leaders by a few hundred pounds, but its max rating of 4,300 pounds is respectable.
Hauling capabilities with the Transit are right near the top of the class, and depending on equipment, the Transit has a maximum payload capacity of 4,230 pounds. Max towing is behind class leaders by a few hundred pounds, but its max rating of 4,300 pounds is respectable.
Fuel Economy
6/10
How’s the fuel economy? What the EcoBoost Transit gains in performance with the turbocharged 3.5-liter V6, it loses in fuel economy. Based on its heavy-duty status, the Transit isn't rated for fuel economy by the EPA, but during our test we weren't able to crest 13 mpg, even on long highway stretches. The standard 3.5-liter V6 and the 2.0-liter diesel engine will likely perform better.
Value
7/10
Is the Transit Passenger Van a good value? The Transit is priced competitively, offering similar amounts of equipment as rivals, and many of the Transit's options are stand-alone, so you can pick and choose what you need. Our dual-rear-wheel heavy-duty test van came with options including adaptive cruise control and Ford's excellent Sync infotainment system, and the price came to $58,900. A similarly equipped Sprinter will run you about the same price but doesn't offer some of Ford's safety aids.
A three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty and roadside assistance coverage for five years/60,000 miles are standard. It's worth noting paint repair damage from "airborne metals" is also covered for the first year, up to 12,000 miles.
A three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty and roadside assistance coverage for five years/60,000 miles are standard. It's worth noting paint repair damage from "airborne metals" is also covered for the first year, up to 12,000 miles.
Wildcard
7.5/10
When you consider the Transit's utility capabilities, it's impressive how well it behaves on curvy roads. The EcoBoost power is always fun, and the handling is good enough to stop you from being the guy who's holding up the line when you're going up a mountain road. The Transit is a workhorse, with bulky dimensions and a h.u.g.e front grille. It's not sleek or swept-back in the front, but it isn't boring or boxy either.
Which Transit Passenger Van does Edmunds recommend?
The base Transit XL is fairly spartan, so we recommend stepping up to the Transit XLT. For slightly more money, you get more standard features and a longer list of optional equipment. And there's no sacrifice to the Transit's utility.
2020 Ford Transit Passenger Van models
The 2020 Ford Transit Passenger Van is a full-size passenger van offered in XL and XLT trims that are broadly differentiated by standard convenience features. There are standard- and long-wheelbase models as well as low-, medium- and high-roof body styles. An extended-length body can be had on the long-wheelbase chassis.
The base Transit Passenger Van is the 150, but there's also the heavy-duty Transit 350 with increased payload capacities. The passenger capacity ranges from five all the way up to 15 depending on the body style and optional seating configurations.
Engines include a new 3.5-liter V6 (275 horsepower, 262 pound-feet of torque) and an optional turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 (310 hp, 400 lb-ft). Last year's diesel has been replaced with a new turbocharged 2.0-liter diesel four-cylinder (210 hp, 369 lb-ft). A new 10-speed automatic transmission is standard with both engines, and all-wheel drive is available for the first time.
Standard equipment on the XL trim includes a sliding passenger door, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, power windows and locks, and air conditioning. For 2020, all Transits now come standard with automatic emergency braking, a lane-keeping assist system and auto high-beam headlights. The XLT trim adds more features including automatic wipers, cruise control, full-length carpeting, reclining rear seatbacks and blind-spot monitoring.
The option and configuration list is extensive. Highlights include various window configurations, power-folding heated mirrors, different axle ratios, a heavy-duty towing package, leather upholstery, a power-sliding door, and Ford's Sync 3 infotainment system with navigation. Ford also offers prep packages for aftermarket outfitters that set up the Transit for use as an ambulance, school bus, RV and more.
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Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2020 Ford Transit Passenger Van.
5 star(50%)
4 star(10%)
3 star(10%)
2 star(10%)
1 star(20%)
10 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
1 out of 5 stars
Nowhere to put your left foot!
RobbieRoadRacer, 10/22/2022
2019 Ford Transit Passenger Van 150 XLT Medium Roof 3dr Van (3.7L 6cyl 6A)
The wheel well blocks where one would comfortably put their left foot while driving. The only way to extend your left leg is to put it right beside your right leg. I can not get comfortable driving this van! Also, the rear wheel drive is useless in snow, don't even try! So gutless my accelerator pedal broke off. The side door has dents in it because it's so hard to close properly. The … 2022 model has small cup holders and the back up camera is small and in the dashboard, making it very hard to see.
2 out of 5 stars
Great van, but trouble with drive train
Jeff, 12/30/2020
2019 Ford Transit Passenger Van 150 XL Low Roof 3dr Van w/Sliding Passenger Side Door (3.7L 6cyl 6A)
2019 Transit 150 van. 11,000 miles. Terrible vibration/ drone at highway speeds. Under warranty. Took to dealer near me drive shaft and damper installed per service bulletin from Ford. Still has vibration / drone. Will take it back again Monday.
I do like the van. It is everything I wanted except for the frustrating drive train issue. I hope I can get it fixed.
5 out of 5 stars
Fabulous car, fabulous dealer, Capitol , Automall,
Roger Papesh in new almaden ca, 02/11/2023
2020 Ford Transit Passenger Van 350 XL Low Roof 3dr Van w/148" WB (3.5L 6cyl 10A)
I simply like the size, I removed all the passenger seats and the van is huge
1 out of 5 stars
Trouble trouble trouble
Mike C, 11/11/2021
2020 Ford Transit Passenger Van 350 XL High Roof 3dr Van w/148" WB (2.0L 4cyl Turbodiesel 10A)
Truck is only one year old and it's diesel engine is pouring out oil, over heating and pissing anti freeze. Truck spent 40 days in shop and things only got worst. Been told can not bring to any other Ford dealer. This is my business Truck this cost me money and lost jobs. Thanks for all your help Ford, not. Not even worth one star.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2020 Ford Transit Passenger Van, so we've included reviews for other years of the Transit Passenger Van since its last redesign.
2020 Transit Passenger Van Highlights
Transit Passenger Van
150 XL Low Roof
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $40,180 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Flex-fuel (ffv) |
Seating | 10 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 39.1 cu.ft. |
rear wheel drive | |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Our experts like the Transit Passenger Van models:
- Lane Keeping Alert
- Monitors the van's position on the road and warns the driver when the vehicle drifts out of its lane.
- Safety Canopy
- Protects the front occupants' heads in a side collision by inflating the side curtain airbags.
- Pre Collision Assist
- Warns the driver if the system detects an imminent collision. Can also automatically apply the brakes.
NHTSA Overall Rating
4 out of 5 starsThe National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverall3 / 5Driver4 / 5Passenger2 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverall5 / 5
- Side Barrier RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront Seat5 / 5Back Seat5 / 5
- RolloverRollover3 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of Rollover26.7%
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