Ford chops van prices

Ford has chopped prices of its big selling Transit van and introduced a round of improvements.

It has also cut back on the model range, dropping Custom versions and introducing a selection of Custom branded options that can be added to standard specification Transits to provide a similar levels of equipment.

On many versions a high roof can now be specified at no extra cost. For high load Transits this represents a œ250 saving (excluding VAT).

In the past Ford has been noted for offering a huge variety of trim and specification levels for both its cars and commercial vehicles. Simplifying its van range marks a radical shift in marketing policy for the firm.

The price reductions mean that short wheelbase (SWB) Transit 80s are now œ480 less than before at œ11,510. The same reduction has been made to the SWB 100, which now costs œ12,675. The œ13,855 Transit 120 is œ360 less than before, as is the long wheelbase Transit 120 at œ17,745.

Other changes mean that power steering is now fitted as standard on all short wheelbase Transits. This has also been revised to improve "straight ahead" feel.