Ford Transit Review: Is It the Best Alternative to the Fiat Ducato?
The Ford Transit has long been one of Britain’s best-known commercial vehicles, but in recent years it has also become a popular choice as a motorhome base vehicle. With impressive driving dynamics, modern technology and a growing number of manufacturers adopting it, can the Transit challenge the dominance of the Fiat Ducato?
A British Icon Reinvented
Mention the Ford Transit to almost anyone in the UK and they’ll immediately know what you’re talking about. Since its launch in the 1960s, the Transit has become synonymous with reliability, practicality and versatility.
While traditionally associated with builders, delivery drivers and tradespeople, today’s Ford Transit has evolved into a sophisticated vehicle that’s equally at home carrying a luxury motorhome body.
Manufacturers such as Auto-Trail, Roller Team, Benimar, Chausson and Swift have increasingly adopted the Transit as the foundation for many of their latest models, giving buyers a genuine alternative to the long-established Fiat Ducato.
First Impressions
Step into the cab and one thing becomes immediately apparent – this doesn’t feel like a commercial van.
Ford has borrowed heavily from its passenger car range, resulting in a modern dashboard, supportive seating and intuitive controls.
The driving position is excellent, offering plenty of adjustment, while visibility is helped by large mirrors and a commanding seating height.
The overall impression is of a vehicle that’s been designed with the driver in mind rather than simply adapted from a commercial van.
Performance on the Road
Most modern Ford Transit motorhomes are powered by Ford’s 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel engine, available in several power outputs.
Whether you choose the 130PS, 155PS or more powerful 170PS version, the engine delivers smooth, predictable performance that’s well suited to motorhome touring.
Acceleration is progressive rather than dramatic, but the Transit feels responsive and willing, particularly when joining motorways or overtaking slower traffic.
The six-speed manual gearbox is light and precise, while Ford’s excellent automatic transmission has become increasingly popular with owners who enjoy relaxed touring.
A Pleasure to Drive
One area where the Transit has earned widespread praise is its handling.
Ford’s experience in producing comfortable passenger cars is evident from the moment you leave the dealership.
The steering feels accurate without being overly light, body control is reassuring on winding roads and motorway cruising is quiet and composed.
Many reviewers regard the Transit as one of the most enjoyable base vehicles to drive, especially for those covering long distances throughout the UK and Europe.
It may not be a sports vehicle, but it inspires confidence in almost every driving situation.
Technology and Driver Assistance
Modern Transits are packed with technology that makes life easier behind the wheel.
Depending on the specification, features may include:
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Traffic Sign Recognition
- Pre-Collision Assist
- Crosswind Assist
- Parking Sensors
- Reversing Camera
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
These systems help reduce driver fatigue and make manoeuvring a large motorhome considerably less stressful.
For first-time owners, they can be particularly reassuring.
Running Costs and Reliability
The EcoBlue diesel engine has generally earned a good reputation for refinement and economy.
Many owners report fuel consumption in the high 20s to low 30s mpg, depending on the size of the motorhome and driving conditions.
Servicing is straightforward thanks to Ford’s extensive dealer network across the UK and Europe, meaning support is rarely far away.
Like any modern diesel vehicle, regular servicing is essential, and buyers should ensure recall work and software updates have been completed on used examples.
Overall, the Transit has proved itself to be a dependable touring companion.
How Does It Compare with the Fiat Ducato?
This is perhaps the question most buyers ask.
The Fiat Ducato still dominates the motorhome market and benefits from decades of development specifically for leisure vehicles.
However, the Ford Transit fights back with a more refined driving experience, excellent driver assistance technology and an interior that many people find more modern.
Ultimately, there is no clear winner.
Some owners prefer the Ducato’s purpose-built motorhome credentials, while others enjoy the Transit’s car-like handling and familiar Ford driving experience.
It often comes down to personal preference.
Who Should Buy One?
The Ford Transit is an excellent choice for buyers who value driving comfort as much as living space.
It’s particularly well suited to couples planning extended tours, first-time motorhome owners looking for confidence behind the wheel and anyone who appreciates modern technology.
If you enjoy driving as much as arriving at your destination, the Transit deserves a place on your shortlist.
Motorhome Monkey Verdict
The Ford Transit has evolved into one of the finest motorhome base vehicles currently available.
Comfortable, refined and enjoyable to drive, it combines Ford’s engineering expertise with a growing reputation in the leisure vehicle market.
It may not yet have overtaken the Fiat Ducato in terms of popularity, but it has certainly earned its place alongside it.
If you’re comparing base vehicles before buying your next motorhome, the Ford Transit is one you simply shouldn’t overlook.
