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Ford Transit gets a Unique Diesel Engine

 Ford van faithfuls are currently facing the demise of one of the most iconic work vans of all time. Dating back to 1961 the Ford E-Series has been the mainstay of American work vans. That all changed with the new One Ford ideology and the 2014 Ford Transit.

Ford initially confirmed that the Transit would receive the popular 3.5 liter EcoBoost engine, but would not confirm what diesel engine would also be available. The last iteration of the E-Series lost its diesel option because the new 6.7 liter Power Stroke V8 was simply too large. That meant that it was also out of the question to fit into the snub nosed Transit. The 6.7 liter Power Stroke is the only diesel engine that Ford currently offers in the U.S.. Due to size limitations it was clear that Ford was going to have to bring a brand new diesel engine to the American market. 
This never before seen engine is a 3.2 liter Power Stroke five-cylinder diesel engine that Ford confirmed is related to the engine currently available in the global Ford Ranger. This engine is a modern common-rail diesel that offers 197 horsepower and 347 lb-ft of torque in its global configuration. Federal emission regulations make it necessary to have a urea consuming selective catalytic reduction system as well as a diesel particulate filter. On the upside this engine is expected to be B20 (20 percent biodiesel) compatible.

A five-cylinder diesel engine seemed like the least likely choice. Competitors are bringing V6 diesels to the U.S. market and it seemed likely that Ford would follow suit. Though a quirky engine may be the perfect match for this European transplant.

Ford has gone out on a limb offering a van that seems to be an ocean away from its predecessor. Is this engine the right size for the job? As a work vehicle would you choose the Power Stroke over the latest EcoBoost technology?

Photo Credit: Ford Motor Company