Ford announces new features for 2016 Transit vehicle

Ford announced its 2016 model year Transit will feature new additions, including SYNC 3, rearview camera technology and new customization options.

“These and other updates make the 2016 Ford Transit the smartest, most flexible van ever offered by Ford,” says Yaro Hetman, Ford brand manager for Transit, Transit Connect and E-Series. “Transit replaces America’s best-selling van for 35 years, E-Series, first sold in 1961 as Ford Econoline, and we look forward to continuing our leadership in this important segment.”

SYNC 3

Ford’s new communications and entertainment system available on Transit for 2016 — features faster performance, more conversational voice recognition, a more innovative smartphone-like touchscreen and easier-to-understand graphical interface to help Ford customers connect on the road.

Dual sliding side cargo doors also will be available for the first time on Ford Transit medium- and high-roof vans — meaning customers can choose from 58 vehicle configurations, up from 47 in the 2015 model year. With the introduction of a dual sliding door option on the 2016 Transit van, the vehicle with the most configurations in its class just got even more flexible.

More speed-limiting options and improved capability

Transit fleet customers can add an available speed limitation feature that caps top speed at 70 mph — providing another option to help encourage safe driving habits and help reduce fuel costs. Speeds already can be limited to 65 mph and 75 mph on 2015 Ford Transit models.

A host of additional upgrades for the 2016 Transit are designed to increase capability for customers who upfit their vehicles. Auxiliary fuse panels are optional on all Transit variants to power custom upfit accessories or other implements. A single absorbed glass mat (AGM) battery — designed for drivers who need to power extra lights or equipment — is optional on all gas engines. Heavy-duty alternators are optional on wagons — giving customers who upfit their vehicles more power to run accessories.

Front dome lamps with map lights and theater dimming will be standard on all Transit variants. The USB jack moves above the cup holder in the center console for easy access.

Ford will also offer four new paint colors debut for the 2016 model year: Shadow Black, Caribou, Magnetic and Race Red.

Customers can begin customizing their 2016 Ford Transit vehicles online starting Aug. 11, with vans and wagons available at Ford dealerships beginning in September.