VW Transporter versus Ford Transit Custom
The VW Transporter and Ford Transit Custom represent two distinct approaches to commercial vehicles.
While the Transit Custom dominates UK sales charts, the Transporter maintains its iconic status and strong following.
The VW Transporter's main strengths are its build quality, refinement, and excellent resale value. Users consistently praise its car-like driving experience and robust construction. Plus, it's the perfect platform for van customisation.
The Transporter offers engine options ranging from 90 hp to 199 hp, providing exceptional flexibility for different needs. However, this quality comes at a premium price point, often costing significantly more than comparable Transit Custom models.
The Ford Transit Custom has excellent practicality and offers great value for money with impressive payload capabilities ranging from 700 kg to nearly 1,500 kg, outperforming the Transporter's 800 kg to 1,300 kg range.
The Transit Custom also features what many consider the best cabin in its class, with thoughtful storage solutions and user-friendly controls. Its 2.0-litre EcoBlue engines (105 hp to 185 hp) deliver a good balance of performance and economy.
However, some users report concerns about the Transit Custom's build quality, particularly noting issues with door supports and overall durability compared to previous generations. The Transporter, meanwhile, faces criticism for its relatively expensive maintenance costs and less practical cabin design.
The Transit Custom offers better value and practical capabilities for daily commercial use but the Transporter's superior build quality and strong resale values make it an attractive long-term investment, particularly for those planning to convert it into a camper van.
The choice ultimately depends on priorities: those seeking maximum practicality and value should lean toward the Transit Custom, while users prioritising refinement, build quality, and resale value might prefer the Transporter despite its higher initial cost.
