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What is Fords version of the Chevy Express?

Ford's answer to the popular Chevrolet Express van is the Ford Transit, a versatile and capable commercial vehicle that has been gaining ground in the North American market. The Transit offers a range of configurations and features that make it a compelling alternative to the Chevy Express.


Comparing the Ford Transit and Chevy Express


The Ford Transit and Chevy Express are both full-size commercial vans, but they differ in several key areas:



  • Powertrain Options: The Transit offers a range of engine choices, including turbocharged EcoBoost gasoline engines and a diesel option, while the Express is primarily available with gasoline V8 engines.

  • Cargo Capacity: The Transit boasts a larger maximum cargo volume of up to 487.3 cubic feet, compared to the Express's 284.4 cubic feet.

  • Maneuverability: The Transit's car-like handling and available rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive configurations make it more maneuverable in tight spaces than the rear-wheel-drive-only Express.li>
  • Technology Features: The Transit offers a more modern suite of technology features, including available Ford's SYNC 3 infotainment system, while the Express has a more basic infotainment setup.li>

Overall, the Ford Transit offers a more versatile and technologically advanced package compared to the Chevy Express, making it a compelling choice for businesses and commercial users in need of a capable and efficient full-size van.


Popularity and Market Positioning


While the Chevy Express has long been a staple in the commercial van market, the Ford Transit has been gaining ground in recent years. The Transit's modern design, diverse powertrain options, and advanced features have helped it appeal to a wider range of customers, including those who may have previously opted for the Chevy Express.p>

In the United States, the Chevy Express still maintains a strong presence, particularly in the passenger van and cargo van segments. However, the Ford Transit has been steadily increasing its market share, especially in the cargo van and cutaway chassis configurations.


As businesses and commercial users continue to seek out the most capable and efficient full-size vans, the competition between the Ford Transit and Chevy Express is likely to intensify, with both models vying for a larger slice of the lucrative commercial vehicle market.

Does Chevy have a van like the Ford Transit?


No, Chevrolet does not make a "Transit van"; that is a Ford model. Chevrolet makes the full-size Chevrolet Express van, which is their competitor to the Ford Transit. The Chevy Express is available as a cargo, passenger, or chassis cab model, designed for various business and hauling needs.
 

  • Chevrolet's alternative: The Chevrolet Express is Chevrolet's direct competitor to the Ford Transit, not a version of the Transit itself. 
  • Models and capabilities: The Express is a heavy-duty van known for its utility and comes in cargo and passenger versions. The passenger van can seat up to 15 people, while the cargo van focuses on maximizing storage space. 
  • Construction: The Express is built on a body-on-frame chassis, which is a heavy-duty design suitable for towing and other demanding tasks. 



Will there be a 2026 Chevy Express van?


The 2026 Chevrolet Express Van is a proven workhorse-simple to upfit, easy to service, and built to haul people or payloads all week long. Choose Cargo for trades and deliveries or Passenger for shuttles and group transport.



What is the Ford version of the Sprinter?


The Ford version of a Sprinter van is the Ford Transit, which is a versatile commercial and conversion van that competes directly with the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. The Transit is often praised for its lower initial cost, more affordable parts, and widespread service availability, as well as a gas engine option that provides high horsepower. However, the Sprinter is often considered more luxurious and is available with a diesel engine and more robust towing/payload capabilities.
 
This video compares the Ford Transit and Mercedes Sprinter vans: 59sBenzBloggerYouTube · Jun 20, 2025

Feature Ford Transit Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
Engine Options Primarily gasoline (standard 3.5L V6 or optional EcoBoost V6) Diesel (standard 4-cylinder or high-output turbocharged)
Price Generally lower starting price Generally higher starting price
Towing & Payload Lower maximum towing and payload capacity Higher maximum towing and payload capacity
Maintenance More widespread dealer network, making service easier and potentially cheaper More limited service centers, though this can depend on location
Interior More basic and functional Often considered more premium and comfortable
Availability All-wheel drive available on newer models 4x4 option available on many models
Body Design Straighter walls, which can be more convenient for conversions Tapered walls
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You can watch this video to see a comparison of the Ford Transit and Mercedes Sprinter vans: 57sGone Mobile VansYouTube · Jul 17, 2025



Why did Ford discontinue the transit?


Ford is not discontinuing the large Transit van, but it is ending sales of the smaller Transit Connect in North America after the 2023 model year due to decreased demand and a strategic focus on reducing costs and complexity. The Transit Connect will continue to be sold in Europe. Additionally, the specialized Transit Trail package was recently discontinued because of supply chain issues and a lack of demand, though this is separate from the discontinuation of the base Transit Connect in North America. 
North America discontinuation (Transit Connect)

  • Declining demand: Sales for the compact van segment, including the Transit Connect, have fallen significantly, making it unprofitable for Ford to continue. 
  • Strategic shift: Ford is prioritizing cost-saving, efficiency, and its electric vehicle (EV) offerings as part of its global restructuring plan. 
  • Other manufacturers followed suit: Other companies, like Ram with the ProMaster City, have also discontinued their small vans in the U.S. 
  • Larger Transit remains: The larger Ford Transit van, which is built in the U.S., will continue to be sold. 

Transit Trail package discontinuation
  • Supply chain issues: Ongoing supply chain challenges and part availability constraints made it difficult to produce the Transit Trail package.
  • Prioritizing parts: Ford decided to remove the package for the 2025 model year to prioritize delivering parts and service for vehicles that already have it. 


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.