What MK is Transit Custom?
The Transit Custom does not have an official Mk designation. In Ford's lineup, Mk numbers are used for the full-size Transit generations, while the Transit Custom is treated as a separate mid-size model with its own generation timeline: first generation (2012–2018) and second generation (2018–present).
To understand where that leaves the Transit Custom, this article explains how the Mk system works for the Transit family, how the Transit Custom fits in, and what that means for buyers and enthusiasts who refer to these vans by generation.
Understanding the Mk system in Ford's Transit lineup
In automotive journalism and among enthusiasts, the term Mk (Mark) is used to denote a generation of a model. For Ford's Transit, most people historically talk about Mk1 through Mk7 (and sometimes Mk8) to mark major redesigns of the full-size cargo van. The Transit Custom, by contrast, is marketed as a distinct mid-size variant and is described by its own generation names rather than a single Mk label.
Definitions and scope
Mk numbering is a convention used by media and clubs to track major design changes across the Transit family. Official Ford materials may describe generations differently or focus on model codes, but the Mk system remains a common shorthand among owners and journalists.
Journalistic vs. official terminology
While many outlets publicly discuss Mk1, Mk2, Mk3, and so on, Ford's own branding for the latest versions often emphasizes model year updates, platform names, or codified designations rather than a formal Mk label. That makes the Transit Custom’s generations clearer when described as its own line—separate from the Mk labeling of the full-size Transit.
Key generations of the full-size Transit, as identified by enthusiasts and many automotive outlets' coverage, are commonly labeled Mk1 through Mk7 (with some sources adding Mk8 for the latest version).
- Mk1 — Original Transit
- Mk2 — Second generation
- Mk3 — Third generation
- Mk4 — Fourth generation
- Mk5 — Fifth generation
- Mk6 — Sixth generation
- Mk7 — Seventh generation (current in many markets)
These Mk labels are widely used in media and clubs but Ford's official communications don't always align with every generation's numbering, especially for the latest variants.
Transit Custom generations
Unlike the full-size Transit, the Transit Custom is marketed as its own mid-size variant. It has its own generation timeline: first generation launched in 2012 and produced until around 2018, followed by a second generation introduced around 2018 and continuing to the present.
- First generation (introduced 2012–2018) — a distinct mid-size Transit built on a shared platform with the larger van but sized for European mid-range payloads and versatility.
- Second generation (introduced around 2018–present) — redesigned styling, improved efficiency, updated interior tech, and enhanced payload and loading options.
These generational updates reflect major redesigns and feature improvements rather than a single Mk label on its own.
Practical implications for buyers and enthusiasts
When choosing between a Transit and a Transit Custom, understanding the generation can help with parts compatibility, payload capacity, and available technologies. The Mk labeling is most useful for historical context and enthusiast discussions, while the official specifications from Ford guide current purchasing decisions.
Summary
The Transit Custom is not assigned a formal Mk number in Ford's branding; Mk designations apply to the full-size Transit generations. The Transit Custom has its own two-generation timeline: first generation (2012–2018) and second generation (2018–present). For the latest specs and features, refer to Ford's official product materials, while Mk references remain a helpful shorthand among media and enthusiasts for the full-size Transit history.
What MK is a Transit Custom?
Inside the MK8 Transit Custom, the cab refinement has been dialled up significantly over the outgoing version. Even the base model variants have the kind of technology that your car might not yet have and we never stock the entry level versions, so the new Customs we have here are better still.
What year is a MK8 Transit?
Mk8 2014-2020 Transit.
What year is the MK7 Transit Custom?
MK 7 2006 - Present
The MK7 Transit featured a host of upgrades and improvements. The interior was upgraded to make it more comfortable and ergonomic. The New TDCi engines were now available to improve economy and emissions.
What MK is a 2019 Transit Custom?
Ford Transit MK8
Ford Transit 2019 – in 2019, to keep up with trends prevailing on the van market, Ford decided to carry out a facelift Ford Transit MK8 model.
