2023 Ford Transit Trail Arrives With Van Life in Mind

We knew it was coming for months, but today Ford officially unveiled the new 2023 Transit Trail, an even more versatile and adventurous variant of its full-size van.

More RVs and motorhomes are built on Ford chassis than any other brand, but this is the Blue Oval’s first turnkey solution from the factory designed for on- and off-road use. Of course, there are many ways to customize and accessorize the vehicle.

The Transit Trail is available in three cargo van configurations including medium- and high-roof models and a high-roof extended-length variant. Each one is powered by a 3.5-litre EcoBoost V6 engine that produces 310 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque, mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. There are five selectable drive modes including Normal, Eco, Mud/Ruts, Tow/Haul and Slippery.

Photo: Ford

A More Rugged Transit

Compared with the standard Transit, this new van boasts 3.5-inch increased ride height and a 2.75-inch wider track. The 16-inch black alloy wheels are wrapped in 30.5-inch Goodyear Wrangler Workhorse all-terrain tires. The exterior also features a black grille with integrated marker lamps and black HID headlamps, unique skid plate-style front bumper, splash guards, wheel arch cladding, front wheel arch liners and slider-style steps on both sides.

With the Heavy-Duty Trailer Package, Ford says the Transit Trail can tow up to 6,500 pounds. Meanwhile, Blind Spot Assist, Reverse and Side Sensing systems and Adaptive Cruise Control help make manoeuvres easier and safer.

Photo: Ford

Technologies and Amenities

Inside, drivers will find a 12-inch centre touchscreen with SYNC 4 infotainment and over-the-air update capability, a high-resolution rear-view camera, as well as 120V, 12V and USB outlets.

Both high-roof configurations provide full standing room to people as tall as 6 feet and 5 inches. The extended-length model has a cargo area floor that stretches more than 14 feet and up to 13,790 litres of cargo space.

Photo: Ford

Drillable areas positioned specifically for cabinetry, shelving, beds and more allow DIY enthusiasts and upfitters to consider countless layouts. Creature comforts in the cabin include privacy glass, an overhead shelf, illuminated sun visors and driver and passenger swivel seats. A roof vent fan is optional just like an Upfitter Package that includes high-capacity upfitter switches, a larger centre console, an auxiliary fuse panel with a high-spec interface connector, dual AGM batteries and a modified vehicle wiring system.

Built in Missouri, the 2023 Ford Transit Trail starts at $65,975 in the U.S. Canadian pricing will be announced later.

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