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New Ford Transit Custom And Ranger MS-RT Models Revealed
Ford Pro has revealed a new series of its range-topping commercial vehicles under the MS-RT brand, combining the usual stunning looks and capabilities you’ve come to expect. Auto Trader’s Tom Roberts reports.
Words by: Tom Roberts
Published on 13 February 2024 | 0 min read
Ford Pro has announced a new series of range-topping commercial vehicles under the MS-RT brand with the reveal of an all-new Transit Custom MS-RT and Ranger MS-RT. The two new models have been designed and engineered in close collaboration between Ford’s global team and the specialists at MS-RT. Customers can order Transit Custom MS-RT, E-Transit Custom MS-RT or Ranger MS-RT from Ford Pro dealers now, with customer deliveries commencing in mid-2024.
Based on the latest-generation Transit Custom and Ranger platforms, the two MS-RT models combine bold visuals with some engineering upgrades. The E-Transit Custom MS-RT derivative is available with a 210kW (285PS) electric powertrain, while the 3.0-litre V6 diesel-powered Ranger MS-RT uses what Ford is billing as “a unique suspension and wheel set-up to enhance its on-road capability to make it the ultimate street truck”. As you’d expect, both vehicles are integrated with the Ford Pro platform of software and connected services including end-to-end charging solutions for electric models, management tools from Ford Pro Telematics and the FordPass Pro app, as well as the FORDLiive connected uptime system.
Based on the latest-generation Transit Custom and Ranger platforms, the two MS-RT models combine bold visuals with some engineering upgrades. The E-Transit Custom MS-RT derivative is available with a 210kW (285PS) electric powertrain, while the 3.0-litre V6 diesel-powered Ranger MS-RT uses what Ford is billing as “a unique suspension and wheel set-up to enhance its on-road capability to make it the ultimate street truck”. As you’d expect, both vehicles are integrated with the Ford Pro platform of software and connected services including end-to-end charging solutions for electric models, management tools from Ford Pro Telematics and the FordPass Pro app, as well as the FORDLiive connected uptime system.
Ford Transit Custom MS-RT
The Ford Transit Custom MS-RT is offered in a range of powertrain options including diesel, plug-in hybrid and full electric. In the loadspace, it offers up to 6.8m3 maximum load volume and up to a 1,124kg maximum net payload.
The Transit Custom MS-RT exterior features a newly-designed aerodynamic front bumper with integrated spoiler, sports side skirts to lower the overall stance of the vehicle and an all-new sports rear quarter including a bumper with integrated diffuser. It also features a motorsport-inspired rear spoiler that has been optimised for airflow. Battery electric versions have an additional coast-to-coast LED light strip between the headlights. Under the arches you’ll find exclusive anthracite 19-inch alloy wheels. The battery electric E-Transit Custom MS-RT model boasts a 210kW (285PS) e-motor powering the rear wheels. Selectable drive modes enable the vehicle to be driven at 160kW in Normal mode and 100kW in Eco mode. The 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel engine is available with 170PS and an eight-speed automatic gearbox, with optional intelligent all-wheel drive, or as a front-wheel drive, six-speed manual version with 150PS. The 232PS plug-in hybrid variant features a 2.5-litre petrol engine and a 11.8kWh battery. Inside, drivers will notice ergonomic front seats with side bolsters for additional support finished in non-animal Eco-Leather and suede, with MS-RT logos and blue stitching. Van configurations are set up with a single driver’s seat and twin passenger seat, while the crew cab offers two front seats and three in the rear finished with matching upholstery. A sculpted sports steering wheel with blue 12 o’clock marker and stitching is standard for both versions. It is available in a range of eye-catching signature MS-RT colours, including vivid Yellow Green and MS-RT Blue, and will come with gloss black mirror caps and door handles as standard. All models also come with MS-RT Blue painted brake callipers. Standard features also include dual-zone electronic automatic temperature control, digital rear-view camera, front and rear parking aid, cruise control and Intelligent Speed Limiter.
The Transit Custom MS-RT exterior features a newly-designed aerodynamic front bumper with integrated spoiler, sports side skirts to lower the overall stance of the vehicle and an all-new sports rear quarter including a bumper with integrated diffuser. It also features a motorsport-inspired rear spoiler that has been optimised for airflow. Battery electric versions have an additional coast-to-coast LED light strip between the headlights. Under the arches you’ll find exclusive anthracite 19-inch alloy wheels. The battery electric E-Transit Custom MS-RT model boasts a 210kW (285PS) e-motor powering the rear wheels. Selectable drive modes enable the vehicle to be driven at 160kW in Normal mode and 100kW in Eco mode. The 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel engine is available with 170PS and an eight-speed automatic gearbox, with optional intelligent all-wheel drive, or as a front-wheel drive, six-speed manual version with 150PS. The 232PS plug-in hybrid variant features a 2.5-litre petrol engine and a 11.8kWh battery. Inside, drivers will notice ergonomic front seats with side bolsters for additional support finished in non-animal Eco-Leather and suede, with MS-RT logos and blue stitching. Van configurations are set up with a single driver’s seat and twin passenger seat, while the crew cab offers two front seats and three in the rear finished with matching upholstery. A sculpted sports steering wheel with blue 12 o’clock marker and stitching is standard for both versions. It is available in a range of eye-catching signature MS-RT colours, including vivid Yellow Green and MS-RT Blue, and will come with gloss black mirror caps and door handles as standard. All models also come with MS-RT Blue painted brake callipers. Standard features also include dual-zone electronic automatic temperature control, digital rear-view camera, front and rear parking aid, cruise control and Intelligent Speed Limiter.
Ford Ranger MS-RT
The Ford Ranger MS-RT is powered by Ford’s 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine delivering 240PS and 600Nm, a 10-speed automatic transmission and the new e4WD full-time four-wheel drive system. Ranger MS-RT also maintains the same exceptional 1-tonne load-carrying ability and 3,500kg of towing capacity of all-new Ranger.
The stance of the vehicle is lowered by the sculpted side skirts and at the rear is a distinctive bumper with an integrated diffuser. The rear tailgate comes with MS-RT graphics and a ducktail spoiler complemented by a cab spoiler. The diamond cut 21-inch wheels use low profile tyres and are the largest wheels ever to be offered on a Ford Ranger. They sit under flared wheel arches that extend the overall width of the vehicle by 82mm both front and rear; track width is increased by 40mm each side. The unique suspension has been optimised to get better handling and comfort with the final configuration featuring new, firmer dampers at the front, a re-tuned rear suspension set-up and an overall 40mm height reduction. The double-cab interior features new seating with supportive bolsters and seat backs on the front seats to provide a sportier look and feel to the vehicle while increasing comfort. Non-animal Eco-Leather and suede is included with distinctive MS-RT pattern and blue stitching feature on both front and rear seats, with MS-RT badges on the front and an additional badge on the dashboard. Drivers also get a heated, sculpted sports steering wheel with blue 12 o’clock marker and MS-RT branded inlay. Ranger MS-RT will be available in a range of colours, including Conquer Grey, with Agate Black painted mirror caps and door handles on all. Standard equipment includes a 12-inch touchscreen with SYNC 4A, dual zone electronic automatic temperature control, front and rear parking aid, rear view camera, Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control and Intelligent Speed Limiter.
The stance of the vehicle is lowered by the sculpted side skirts and at the rear is a distinctive bumper with an integrated diffuser. The rear tailgate comes with MS-RT graphics and a ducktail spoiler complemented by a cab spoiler. The diamond cut 21-inch wheels use low profile tyres and are the largest wheels ever to be offered on a Ford Ranger. They sit under flared wheel arches that extend the overall width of the vehicle by 82mm both front and rear; track width is increased by 40mm each side. The unique suspension has been optimised to get better handling and comfort with the final configuration featuring new, firmer dampers at the front, a re-tuned rear suspension set-up and an overall 40mm height reduction. The double-cab interior features new seating with supportive bolsters and seat backs on the front seats to provide a sportier look and feel to the vehicle while increasing comfort. Non-animal Eco-Leather and suede is included with distinctive MS-RT pattern and blue stitching feature on both front and rear seats, with MS-RT badges on the front and an additional badge on the dashboard. Drivers also get a heated, sculpted sports steering wheel with blue 12 o’clock marker and MS-RT branded inlay. Ranger MS-RT will be available in a range of colours, including Conquer Grey, with Agate Black painted mirror caps and door handles on all. Standard equipment includes a 12-inch touchscreen with SYNC 4A, dual zone electronic automatic temperature control, front and rear parking aid, rear view camera, Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control and Intelligent Speed Limiter.
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