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Published: 18 Mar 2026 | Last reviewed: 18 Mar 2026 | Reviewed by: VanCompare Editorial Team
The “new 2018 Transit Custom” headlines were about a mid-life update rather than an all-new van. Ford revealed the facelift in 2017, and it reached the market at the start of 2018 with sharper styling, a redesigned cabin, and the 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel range. [1]
This guide updates the original announcement-style story with what actually arrived — and how to think about it if you’re buying or insuring one now.
What changed on the 2018 Transit Custom?
1) Updated styling and lighting (trim-dependent)
Ford’s facelift brought a revised front-end look and a more modern appearance overall. Lighting specifications can vary by trim and options, so it’s best to check the exact van you’re viewing rather than assuming all features are standard. [1]
2) A new cabin designed as a “mobile office”
A big part of the facelift was inside. Ford highlighted a completely new cabin with improved usability and storage, plus easier connectivity through SYNC 3 (touchscreen infotainment) or MyFord Dock (a dock for your own device), depending on spec.
3) More driver assistance tech
Ford said the facelift introduced additional technologies to the model line, including Intelligent Speed Assist (availability depends on year/spec/trim). [1]
Engines: EcoBlue diesels and the ECOnetic option
The facelifted Transit Custom introduced Ford’s 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel range with commonly listed outputs of 105 PS, 130 PS, and 170 PS in UK reporting. If you want the lowest official consumption/emissions figures from this era, Ford also offered an ECOnetic version, with official figures of 148 g/km CO₂ and 49.6 mpg for the ECOnetic 105 PS variant. Real-world mpg varies by payload, routes, driving style, and maintenance.
What about the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version?
Ford planned to follow the facelift with a plug-in hybrid option. By September 2019, the Transit Custom Plug-In Hybrid was available to order in the UK, with a quoted pure electric driving range of up to 56 km (35 miles). If you’re looking at used PHEV stock now, regular charging access makes the biggest difference to how much electric driving you actually get.
Buying a used 2018–2019 Transit Custom: quick checklist
Because “Transit Custom” covers lots of variants, it’s worth confirming:
- Engine output and gearbox (and whether it’s ECOnetic)
- Payload and body style (panel van, kombi, double cab-in-van; SWB/LWB)
- Tech spec (SYNC 3, parking aids, driver assistance)
- Service history and recall/repair records
If it’s converted (racking, refrigeration, camper conversion), keep documentation for what’s been fitted.
Insurance considerations (general info)
For Transit Customs from this era, the most common cover issues are avoidable admin problems:
- Make sure your policy use matches reality (business use, commuting, carriage of tools)
- Declare any modifications/conversions and added security
- Keep evidence for higher-value equipment (photos/receipts can help at claim stage)
Van Compare lets you compare van insurance options from multiple providers. Always read the policy wording so the cover matches how you use your van.
Sources
- Ford Media (Europe) — Transit Custom facelift reveal (12 July 2017): View source
- Honest John Vans — Driven: Ford Transit Custom EcoBlue diesel van 2018 (28 Nov 2017): View source
- Ford Media (UK product page) — Transit Custom (includes ECOnetic official figures): View source
- Ford Media (UK) — Transit Custom Plug-In Hybrid available to order; electric range quoted (23 Sept 2019): View source
VanCompare Editorial Team
The VanCompare Editorial Team produces clear, practical guidance on UK van insurance and related topics. We work with FCA authorised insurance providers and use insurer information where relevant to explain cover in plain English and help drivers make informed decisions.
- Where relevant, our content is checked against publicly available UK guidance and information from sources such as the FCA and GOV.UK to help keep it accurate and up to date.
- This content is for general information only and is not financial advice.
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