2023 Ford Transit Crew Van

You don't often see a new entrant to the commercial van market and a review of the Ford Transit Crew Van's competitors shows that this segment is mostly dominated by the Transit, the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, and the Ram ProMaster. Each has its own area of expertise, though, which is why the Ford Transit Crew Van takes a slightly more nuanced approach. Rather than try to outmuscle competitors that can tow more or offer higher levels of comfort, the Transit tries to do everything just well enough to appeal to the largest portion of the commercial van Venn diagram. With access to a pair of highly capable V6 engines, as well as all-wheel drive and a few different body styles, the 2023 Transit Crew Van may be just what you're looking for to fill that niche slot in your fleet.

The overall price of the 2023 Ford Transit Crew Van is almost entirely dependent on the type of body configuration you choose, though the engine and drivetrain do factor in. The cheapest setup is the regular wheelbase and a low roof with the standard V6 and RWD, coming to $45,820. The other combinations include the low roof/long wheelbase at $47,090, medium roof/regular wheelbase at $46,640, medium roof/long wheelbase at $47,920., high roof/extended wheelbase at $51,015, and high roof/extended wheelbase with dual rear wheels at $54,075. Swapping out the engine for the twin-charged engine increases the cost by $1,775, and while the price varies, the all-wheel drivetrain will usually add around $4,700. These are MSRP prices and do not include the $1,795 destination charge or any other administrative fees.

Considering its size and function, the Ford Transit Crew Van handles relatively well, if not quite car-like. It is not designed for speed but rather security and sure-footedness. That being said, it is maneuverable enough to feel at home around town thanks to its power steering and on the highway thanks to its crosswind assist. None of this should ever make you feel like you can push the van's limits, though. The lack of feedback from the steering reinforces this notion, and the small wheels and tires don't provide loads of grip.

There is definitely more of a bias towards comfort, as those same small tires aren't as easily upset by small road imperfections. The suspension isn't quite as forgiving, since a certain firmness goes with the territory if a suspension system is set up to carry big loads. Road noise is a constant companion regardless of your speed, with the van body acting like a sound amplifier, and both of the V6 engines supply an accompanying soundtrack; at least they're more interesting to listen to than a four-cylinder. Trailering specifications are good but not class-leading and the maximum towing capacity of 6,900 lbs, but the available all-wheel drive adds a certain level of versatility and ensures the van can keep going on slippery roads. Keep in mind that this is not an off-road AWD system; the Transit doesn't have the ground clearance for such antics anyway.

Each model can be equipped with all the same features, so the best model to choose all comes down to how much cargo space you need and whether or not you'll be towing heavy trailers regularly. In the case of the former, you'll want the T-350 with its high roof and extended wheelbase, and potentially even the dual rear wheels if your loads will be particularly weighty. For better towing, less curb weight is desirable, so a T-150 with a low roof and regular wheelbase will give you the highest capacity.