Ford Transit Courier: Compact Versatility for Modern Needs

Graham Baalham-Curry

• 3 min read
Ford Transit Courier: Compact Versatility for Modern Needs

With the Ford Fiesta now discontinued—along with its commercial van derivative—Ford can push the Transit Courier to fill a sparse segment in the market where few small commercial alternatives exist.

Small vans remain in high demand among commercial fleets that don’t require massive carrying capacity, as well as local handymen and self-employed delivery drivers. Built on the Ford Puma SUV chassis, the Transit Courier offers an impressive driving experience. Despite being one of the smallest vans available, it’s not far off the size of its bigger sibling, the Transit Connect, making it both practical and versatile.

The range-topping model tested and pictured looks fantastic, but it’s not without flaws. The seating position feels poor and uncomfortable, and adjusting climate settings via the touchscreen proves distracting. Performance is somewhat lacklustre, and fuel economy isn’t its strongest suit—but once on the move, the van feels agile and enjoyable to drive.

Starting at £19,517, the Transit Courier is among the most affordable two-seater vans on the market. Buyers can choose from petrol, diesel (from £20,767), or full electric (from £28,917) powertrains, along with four trim levels. For those needing more seats, Ford offers the Tourneo Courier, a five-seater starting at £28,320.

Powertrain Options:

  • Petrol: 1.0-litre, three-cylinder turbocharged EcoBoost engine, claiming around 43mpg. The 100PS version comes with a 6-speed manual gearbox, while the 6-speed manual 125PS variant offers an optional 7-speed automatic.
  • Diesel: 1.5-litre turbocharged EcoBlue engine producing 100PS, paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox, boasting over 51mpg.
  • Electric: 43kWh battery delivering 136PS with automatic transmission.

Trim Levels:

  • Leader (from £19,517): Includes body-colour upper bumper, heated mirrors, daytime running lamps, auto high beam, hinged rear cargo doors, air conditioning, SYNC 4 infotainment with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, 8" touchscreen, and more.
  • Trend (from £22,217): Adds LED lighting, front fog lamps, single sliding door, climate control, driver’s armrest and lumbar support, 12" touchscreen, and front trunk stowage.
  • Limited (from £23,717): Features chrome grille accents, painted mirrors, body-colour door handles, automatic wipers, heated seats, heated steering wheel, and premium Sensico trim.

Active (from £24,217): Adds rugged styling with honeycomb grille, skid plates, scuff plates, and unique floor mats.

White is the standard colour, with six optional shades available for £600—including bold choices like Bursting Green or Digital Aqua Blue (pictured).

The test model included extras such as the Driver Assistance Pack with navigation (£800), LED daytime running lights (£200), and a steel bulkhead with integrated window (£50), bringing the total to £25,867.

Larger than its predecessor, the latest Transit Courier features a two-pallet load capacity. Over a week of driving, it averaged around 37mpg. Ford offer a three-year/60,000-mile warranty.

All prices quoted are on-the-road recommended retail prices, plus VAT.