Ford’s Pro division in the UK has unveiled a pair of tuned workhorses via its MS-RT motorsport partner, including a very cool 2024 Ford Ranger upgrade and a racy Transit Custom.
The commercial vehicle space is very popular right now, especially utes and pickups in Australia, according to VFACTS sales figures. MS-RT is one of Ford’s motorsport partners and offers turn-key packages based on new Ford products, which can be purchased and serviced via Ford’s dealer network in Europe.
2024 Ford Transit Custom MS-RT
Starting with the Transit Custom, it features a racy bodykit including a front spoiler, side skirts, and custom rear quarter panels and rear bumper bar, complete with a diffuser and rear spoiler. These parts have been crafted using “advanced computer simulations”.
A set of 19-inch lightweight alloy wheels complete the look. But they don’t just look good, they help shave 1kg per corner, reducing unsprung mass and thus improving handling. The wheels are 13mm wider than the standard wheels, too. That and the offset helps to increase the track by 50mm. Grip comes from “commercial-rated” 235/45 Goodyear Eagle Sport tyres.
In the engine compartment, customers have the option of a 125kW EcoBlue turbo-diesel and eight-speed auto with all-wheel drive, or a 110kW manual version with front-wheel drive. There’s also a plug-in hybrid option with 171kW, pairing a 2.5-litre petrol with an 11.8kWh battery system.
However, if it’s absolute power you want, MS-RT offers the E-Transit Custom, featuring a 210kW rear-mounted electric motor. It is the most powerful Transit Custom ever. And, interestingly, toggling through the drive modes actually alters the output, from Eco (100kW), Normal (160kW), and Sport (210kW).
The MS-RT Transit Custom retains its load capacities and workhorse capability, offering up to 6800L of cargo space and a maximum net payload rating of up to 1124kg.
2024 Ford Ranger MS-RT
This package is more about boosting the Ranger’s visual presence rather than outright speed and performance. MS-RT has crafted a bespoke front bumper bar that’s inspired by racing trucks that compete in Asia, complete with an all-new honeycomb mesh grille and side intakes.
Along the sides you’ll notice the bulging wheel arches, which give the Ranger a wide-body stance, and then around at the back is a custom bar and integrated diffuser element, with special MS-RT graphics on the tailgate.
A set of awesome 21-inch diamond-cut wheels finish the look, wrapped in 275/45 Continental ConiSportContact tyres. Sitting within the pumped wheel arches, they help expand the track by 40mm on each side, with overall width increased by 82mm.
Although there are no engine modifications, with the 3.0-litre turbo-diesel V6 retaining its Euro-spec output of 177kW and 600Nm, the team has come up with a special sports suspension package. It consists of new dampers at the front that are firmer, and a recalibrated rear end.
The ride height is lowered by 40mm as well for that tough look and to lower the centre of gravity to help with handling. As a result, MS-RT describes it as the ultimate street truck. Hans Schep, general manager at Ford Pro Europe, said:
“If Ranger Raptor is the ultimate off-road truck, then the Ranger MS-RT is the ultimate street truck. It’s a departure from what we usually see in this segment in Europe, but with more car-like driving dynamics and the towing and carrying capacity unchanged, we believe it will offer a compelling new option for pickup customers.”
Some upgrades are also applied to the interior, with new sports seats in the front, non-animal leather and suede trimmings, and unique logos spread throughout. There’s also a sportier steering wheel.
These two custom work vehicles are available to order through Ford Pro dealerships across Europe. Although MS-RT has a hub set up in Australia, there has been no official confirmation that these packages will be made available Down Under, unfortunately.
