Ford Transit Custom MS-RT Looks Ready To Hit 200 MPH But Sadly It Can't
Don't be fooled by the large wing and the bodykit as the MS-RT trim doesn't bring any power upgrades over the stock Transit Custom models
The new generation of the Ford Transit Custom already has the attention of tuners, so it was about time for the official MS-RT trim to arrive. The van benefits from an aggressive bodykit and larger wheels, although the available powertrains remain completely stock, including the diesel, plug-in hybrid, and EV options.
From the outside, the Ford Transit Custom MS-RT looks like an RS van, thanks to the redesigned aero. The front bumper features large – but mostly fake – intakes, a splitter, and the MS-RT emblem on the honeycomb grille. The body-colored fender extensions, the additional vents, and the side skirts make the profile look sportier, although the most eye-catching feature is at the back.
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Ford and M-Sport designers attached a "motorsport-inspired" spoiler on the van's roof, which is said to "optimize" airflow. This is not as wild as the one in the E-Transit SuperVan, but still manages to steal the show. The rear bumper is also special, featuring sculpted outlets and an integrated diffuser. The sportiest-looking trim of the Transit Custom comes in vivid colors including the pictured Yellow Green, or the MS-RT Blue that is also used for the brake calipers.
While the model retains the stock suspension, it does get a new set of anthracite 19-inch wheels shod in sticky 235/45 R19 Goodyear Eagle Sport rubber. The wheels reduce unsprung mass by over 1 kg (2.2 pounds) on each corner and increase track width by over 50 mm (2 inches) thanks to the wider tires.
Inside, the MS-RT treatment includes new seats with pronounced bolsters at the front and a unique blue stitching pattern on the eco-leather/suede upholstery. MS-RT emblems can be found on all headrests and floor mats, while the steering wheel has a blue midnight marker and matching stitching. Remember that this is a high-spec trim so amenities like dual-zone climate control and rear-view camera come standard. Cargo-carrying capabilities remain unchanged, with up to 6.8 m3 (240 cubic feet) of space at the back and a maximum payload of 1,124 kg (2,478 pounds).
The Ford Transit Custom MS-RT is available with diesel, PHEV, and EV powertrains. The most fitting option is the zero-emission one as the single electric motor channels up to 282 hp (210 kW / 285 PS) to the rear wheels. The PHEV combines a 2.5-liter gasoline engine with an electric motor for a combined 229 hp (171 kW / 232 PS). Finally, the non-electrified 2.0-liter EcoBlue turbodiesel is the least powerful, producing 168 hp (125 kW / 170 PS) when combined with an eight-speed automatic and all-wheel-drive, or 148 hp (110 kW / 150 PS) when combined with a six-speed manual and front-wheel-drive.
Ford is already accepting orders for the Transit Custom MS-RT in Europe and the UK. Customer deliveries are expected to commence in mid-2024 as with the Ford Ranger MS-RT pickup.