Which Transit Custom engine is best?
In most cases, the 2.0 EcoBlue diesel engine delivering around 130 horsepower offers the best overall balance of efficiency, torque, and running costs for daily use. If you regularly haul heavy loads or cover long distances, the 170‑horsepower twin‑turbo variant provides stronger acceleration and higher payload capability. For urban fleets aiming to minimize emissions, the plug‑in hybrid version (where available) can deliver zero‑emission city driving, though it comes with higher upfront costs and limited electric range.
Ultimately, the best engine depends on your specific operation: how far you drive, typical loads, access to charging, and total cost of ownership. This article reviews the current Transit Custom engine options and how they map to real‑world use to help you choose.
Engine options overview
Ford’s Transit Custom uses a family of 2.0‑liter EcoBlue diesels across most trims, with electrified variants available in certain markets. The main choices range from efficient mid‑power models to higher‑torque variants designed for heavier payloads, plus mild‑hybrid and plug‑in options in some regions. The following sections summarize what to expect from each configuration.
Diesel EcoBlue options
Below are the typical diesel configurations you’ll encounter, and the kinds of duties they suit. Availability and exact outputs can vary by market and facelift year, so check local specs.
- EcoBlue 2.0L, mid‑power (approximately 130 hp): a practical all‑rounder with solid torque for urban driving and highway cruising; best for balanced efficiency and performance.
- EcoBlue 2.0L, high‑power (approximately 170 hp): stronger torque and acceleration, better for heavy payloads and frequent highway/motorway use; higher fuel use under light loads.
In summary, the standard 130 hp variant is the best default choice for most operators, while the 170 hp variant is worth it if you regularly haul heavy loads or drive with a full payload.
Mild-hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid options
Several electrified options exist to reduce emissions and fuel use in urban duty cycles. Availability varies by market, so confirm local offerings.
- Mild‑hybrid EcoBlue (48V): adds a mild electric assist and energy recovery to improve overall efficiency, especially in stop‑start city driving; best for fleets that value modest fuel savings without charging requirements.
- Plug‑in Hybrid Transit Custom (PHEV): combines a diesel engine with a battery and allows limited electric‑only driving; ideal for city centers and regions with strict emissions rules, but needs regular charging and has a higher upfront cost.
For urban operators with access to charging and frequent city driving, the PHEV can offer significant city‑driving benefits, while the mild‑hybrid can shave some fuel use without changing charging habits.
How to choose the best engine for your fleet
Use this decision framework to pick the engine that fits your route structure, payloads, and budget. Each option brings different trade‑offs in cost, efficiency, and capability.
- Assess payload and duty cycle: If you regularly carry heavy loads or drive long distances, prefer the 170 hp Bi‑Turbo; for lighter duties, the 130 hp engine is typically sufficient.
- Consider urban vs. highway use: Urban fleets may benefit more from electrified options (MHEV or PHEV) due to stop‑start driving and possible access to charging; highway‑focused fleets may prefer the higher power of the 170 hp variant.
- Evaluate emissions and urban access: If you operate in cities with low‑emission zones, PHEV offers clean driving in restricted zones, but ensure charging availability.
- Factor total cost of ownership: Higher upfront costs for electrified options can pay off over time with fuel savings and potential exemptions, otherwise the 130 hp is the most economical default.
Bottom line: the best engine for you balances payload requirements, driving routes, and total cost of ownership, with the 130 hp EcoBlue serving as the default for many fleets and the 170 hp Bi‑Turbo serving heavier duty needs; electrified options cover city‑center operators with charging capability.
Summary
The Transit Custom’s engine lineup is anchored by 2.0‑liter EcoBlue diesels in 130 hp and 170 hp forms, plus electrified variants in certain markets. For most users, the 130 hp engine offers the best everyday value and efficiency, while the 170 hp Bi‑Turbo excels when payload and performance matter. If your operation is urban and you can charge regularly, the mild‑hybrid or plug‑in hybrid can reduce emissions and fuel use, though at a higher upfront cost. Verify local specifications and test drive the options that match your typical duty cycle to determine the best fit.
What is the difference between 3.5 L PFDi v6 and 3.5 L EcoBoost engine?
The main difference is that the 3.5L EcoBoost is a turbocharged engine with significantly more horsepower and torque, making it better for heavy-duty tasks, while the 3.5L PFDI is a naturally aspirated (non-turbocharged) engine that provides smooth, responsive performance for standard use. The EcoBoost engine uses twin turbochargers and dual-fuel injection to produce 310 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque, whereas the PFDI engine produces 275 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque.
You can watch this video to learn about the performance difference between the 2.7L and 3.5L EcoBoost engines: 1m8020 AutomotiveYouTube · Jan 20, 2023
| Feature | 3.5L PFDI | 3.5L EcoBoost |
|---|---|---|
| Power | 275 hp, 260 lb-ft of torque | 310 hp, 400 lb-ft of torque |
| Engine Type | Naturally Aspirated (Non-Turbocharged) | Twin-Turbocharged |
| Key Technology | Port and Direct Injection (PFDI) | Direct Injection and Twin Turbos |
| Best For | Standard, responsive performance | Heavy loads, towing, and higher performance needs |
| How it works | Uses two injectors per cylinder for improved performance and efficiency. | Uses turbos to force more air into the engine for greater power output. |
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Is the Ford 3.2 L diesel engine reliable?
Despite its strengths, the Ford Ranger 3.2 engine isn't immune to problems. Around or after the 100,000 km mark, several issues may surface. These include: EGR valve clogging from soot build-up.
Which Ford Transit engine is the best?
Based on hundreds of user reviews and workshop experience, these are the most trusted Transit engines:
- 2.5 DI Diesel (MK4/MK5 – 1994–2000)
- 2.2 TDCi Duratorq (Late MK7/MK8)
- 2.0 EcoBlue Diesel (MK8 Facelift and MK9 – 2018+)
Which Ford engine to stay away from?
Ford engines to avoid include the 6.0L and 6.4L Power Stroke diesels, which had numerous issues like EGR cooler failures and injector problems, and the 5.4L Triton V8 known for spark plug and timing chain problems. Other engines to be cautious of are the 3.8L V6 due to head gasket failures and certain EcoBoost engines, especially early 1.0L and 1.6L models, which have faced issues like premature timing belt wear and overheating.
You can watch this video to learn about some of the worst Ford engines ever made: 59sCar WisdomsYouTube · May 2, 2025
Engines with high failure rates
- 6.0L and 6.4L Power Stroke diesel engines: These engines (2003-2007 and 2008-2010, respectively) are notorious for expensive problems, including head gasket failures, injector issues, and turbocharger failures.
- 5.4L Triton V8: This engine (1997-2010) is infamous for spark plugs breaking during removal and cam phaser/timing chain issues.
- 3.8L SX V6: From 1982 to 2008, this engine had issues with weak head bolts causing head gasket failures, and early versions were prone to coolant leaks.
This video discusses the 5.4L Triton V8 in detail: 53sSeats & WheelsYouTube · Aug 10, 2025
Problematic EcoBoost engines
- 1.0L EcoBoost (early versions): Early models used a rubber timing belt in hot engine oil, which could degrade and clog the oil pickup, leading to oil starvation and engine damage.
- 1.6L EcoBoost: This engine has been associated with overheating and coolant leaks.
- 3.5L EcoBoost: Problems can include carbon buildup, premature timing chain wear, and water pump failures.
- 2.7L EcoBoost: Early models (around 2016-2017) experienced issues with defective valve guides, excessive oil consumption, and leaking plastic oil pans.
You can watch this video for more information about EcoBoost engine issues: 1mExoticCar PlayPlaceYouTube · Nov 15, 2025
