Ford Transit Custom Trail Debuts As Off-Road Van For Australia

The Ford Transit Custom for the Australian market is currently only offered with a front-wheel-drive (FWD) drivetrain, but an all-wheel-drive (AWD) variant is headed Down Under in the near future. That’s because the Transit Custom Trail recently debuted as a more capable version of the small van, geared toward both commercial and recreational buyers in Australia.

The Ford Transit Custom Trail is based on the long wheelbase (LWB) Transit Custom Trend, which offers six cubic meters of cargo space and a host of equipment not offered in the “regular” Transit Custom variant. Power is sourced from the turbodiesel 2.0L I4 engine, which is capable of producing 125 kW (roughly 168 horsepower) and 390 Nm of torque (approximately 235 pound-feet).

That powerplant is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, routing power to all four wheels by way of its AWD system, a first for the van in Australia. The active system harnesses an electronically controlled clutch in the rear, which allows it to function like a four-wheel-drive system when needed.

Outside, the Ford Transit Custom Trail features a unique grille to differentiate it from the rest of the Transit Custom lineup, and also boasts skid plates, black molded wheel arches, black side stripes, and silver-painted rocker trim. The van rides on a set of matte black 16-inch twin-spoke wheels, while underbody protection helps keep its more delicate bits safe from rough terrain. LED headlights illuminate the path ahead, while yellow decals give the van a sportier appearance outside.

Inside, the Ford Transit Custom Trail features faux leather upholstery with Trail branding, along with yellow stitching and a seven-inch instrument cluster screen. A 13-inch touchscreen handles infotainment duties, while heated front seats are standard, along with a four-speaker audio system. Buyers can choose from a $700 rear liftgate or dual barn doors for $1,000.

Pricing for the Transit Custom Trail starts at $61,990 AUD ($39,744 USD). Note that Australia is also getting the Transit Custom PHEV soon,