This article looks at the Ford Transit Trail as a camper van base, covering how it stacks up against the Sprinter, its AWD drivetrain, engine, and factory off-road accessories.
With Ford coming out of the gate hot in 2020 unveiling their new AWD model, it took the van conversion market by storm. Dominated by Sprinter vans, Ford is not making it easy on Mercedes to keep the top seat in the outdoor adventure vehicle kingdom. Of course, when it comes to vehicles, there are evangelists for each and every brand. There are even some people that prefer the look of the Promasters to other vans... No offence Dodge but... come on.
By the way... if you're interested in an in-depth comparison, we compare all three of these vans in a head to head battle in our article here:
Whats the best van? - Sprinter vs Transit vs Promaster - Van Conversion Comparison Guide
We're huge fans of the Ford Transit camper vans for a variety of reasons but Mercedes Benz Sprinter vans come in as a close second.
Annual Sprinter Van Sales Versus Ford Transit Sales
These figures represent sales in the United States only.
| Year | Ford | Mercedes |
| 2019 | 153,867 | 29,757 |
| 2020 | 131,557 | 37,513 |
| 2021 | 99,745 | 40,534 |
| 2022 | 78,996 (as of November 1) | 36,533 (as of October 1) |
Overall, and despite the merciless Mercedes lovers (we love sprinters too, don't hate us) Ford dominates the local market in the United States for gross commercial van sales. However, as Fords sales have been dwindling, the Sprinter van sales have been increasing year over year.
Looking to take back a larger chunk of the commercial cargo van pie, Ford is now doing something that neither Dodge or Mercedes have done yet.
Ford is now targeting the RV and campervan market
Right out of the gate, the Ford Transit Trail is sporting a 3.5" lift kit and a wider track width to get your butt off the ground and into the wild.
They must be scrolling through instagram and seeing all of their Transits with the awful factory alloy rims being replaced with everyones favourite Black Rhino Rims because they've standardized the 16" black alloy wheels. Surrounding the rims and taking you further are some big 30.5" Goodyear Wrangler Workhorse All-Terrain tires they suggest can take you further and offer more stability for rugged terrain.
Ford Transit Trail Engine & Standard Accessories
Of course, under the hood, they've included their signature 3.5L Ecoboost V6 engine.
These engines come in with 310 horsepower @ 5000 RPMs and 400 LB - FT of torque at 2500 RPM.
10 speed transmission with a new option to select from FIVE different driving modes. I can only assume this will be similar to some of their other models which sport these five modes.
- Normal
- Sand
- Wet/Slippery/Snow
- Eco
- Sport
Like their new acronym of G.O.A.T. "Goes Over Any Terrain"
All Wheel Drive, All the Time
We've heard nothing but ranting and raving from our Ford Transit van conversion clients. They absolutely love their eco boot and they love their AWD. It just gives you that extra bit of confidence, even on highways, we love that feeling up here in the cold cold Canadian climate. It's a good switch up from riding our Polar Bears.
I can hear the Mercedes folks saying Ecoboost? Pfft... I want my 6 Cylinder Diesel. We know, we love those and you too. But this article is about Fords new Trail van. If you want to read all of the things we love about Sprinters, Promasters, and Transits in their own way, read our van comparison blog here.
You can't tell me they haven't done their market research when you look at these.
Aftermarket Accessories? Now They're Add-ons at the Factory
What used to cost an arm and a leg now comes from the factory. Ford has started to include options like rock guards and side steps, wheel well liners, skid plate, splash guards, cladding and rugged exterior trim kits to give your van a badass look right from the factory.
What's your take? Are you ordering a Ford Transit Trail for your van conversion?
Let us know in the comments what your first thoughts are!
Are you interested in more details from us when they are released?
As always, contact us if you are looking for your very own van conversion. We have vans in stock and time slots available for 2023.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Ford Transit Trail good for a camper conversion?
The Transit Trail is a strong conversion base because it comes with AWD, a lift, and all-terrain tires from the factory, giving you light off-road capability without aftermarket work. It is a good fit for gravel roads and winter travel.
Is the Ford Transit good for van life?
Yes, the Transit is one of the two platforms we build on because it offers a roomy interior, available AWD, gas simplicity, and easy servicing across North America. It is often the value choice against a Sprinter.
Transit Trail versus a regular Transit for camping?
The Trail adds factory AWD, a suspension lift, and all-terrain tires, so it is worth it if you plan to travel rough roads, but a standard Transit converts just as well for pavement-focused travel. Pay for the Trail only if you will use it.
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