New SportVan redefines the white van

FORD has launched a limited-edition Ford Transit SportVan – in white.

Just 80 of the vans are being made in the special colour scheme, which reverses the ‘classic’ SportVan colour scheme: blue with white stripes. On-the-road price is £22,030.

Ford has sold more than 1,000 of the racy-looking Transits in the past year – indeed, the blue SportVan has now sold out. The limited-edition white SportVan features frozen white paintwork and Le Mans-style blue bonnet stripes. Two other options remain available in addition to the white model – Panther Black with silver stripes, and new Sea Grey with silver stripes.

SportVan is based on the popular short wheelbase Transit 260 with front-wheel drive, 140PS 2.2-litre TDCi diesel engine and a six-speed transmission. Trim additions include twin exhausts; 18in snowflake pattern alloys; low profile 235/45 tyres; front and rear lower spoilers; side skirts; and extended wheel arches. Important safety features are standard including anti-lock ABS brakes, ESP anti-skid control and driver and passenger airbags.

Inside the cab standard features include: velour trim; air conditioning; six CD-player with remote 'steering-column'-mounted controls; cruise control; power windows; power and heated mirrors; leather steering wheel; tinted glass; leather gearshift knob; and a perimeter alarm.

Standard equipment also includes power deadlocks, rain-sensing wipers, auto headlights, front fog lights and load area protection kit. Optional are leather seats and Satellite Navigation FX system with 5in colour screen.

Ford’s commercial vehicles director Steve Kimber said: "The first Performance Blue limited edition Transit SportVan has been an enormous success, with more than 1,000 sold in 18 months. Transit SportVan is all about style and individuality, and hits a sweet spot with many of our customers."