What's the difference?
Ford has introduced what is being touted as an adventure-type van to its Transit Custom line-up and it’s called the Trail.
The Trail is based on the long-wheelbase Transit Custom Trend and it’s equipped with a suspension lift, on-demand all-wheel drive, 'Trail' drive mode, LED headlights and daytime running lights, a variant-specific grille, black wheel arch moulding and side strip, yellow exterior decals and 16-inch matt black twin-spoke alloy wheels.
With all that in mind, maybe a van is your next adventure vehicle?
Read on.
Have you ever wished for an electric version of a high-riding hatchback, something like a Subaru XV, but with batteries and a bit more prestige?
Clearly, many luxury car buyers have, as the conceptually similar EQA 250 has proven since launching in Australia at the tail end of 2020. Mercedes-Benz can’t import enough of them.
Now, there’s a 350 4Matic version, with two electric motors, not one, all-wheel instead of just front-wheel drive, and appreciably stronger performance.
But in the two years since the EQA’s debut, the EV landscape has transformed, with Korea and China leading in innovation, disrupting the long-established order of things.
In other words, can the new 350 4Matic cut it? Read on.
The Ford Transit Custom Trail has plenty of appeal as a work van or a camper fit-out candidate. It’s a well-packaged, comfortable and contemporary van that’s nice to drive and as a bonus, with all-wheel drive it’s given the scope of capability to be able to tackle mild off-roading situations with confidence.
It’s built for work and play and though it’s limited to two-up for travels, the Trail offers so much potential as a camper conversion for adventure seekers its few niggles are easily forgotten when you’re busy making memories.
On one hand, the EQA 350 4Matic has the styling, interior presentation, forceful performance and handling prowess to make you forgive its very expensive price tag, especially when so many rival EVs are also so talented.
But there’s too much that’s ordinary about this Mercedes to justify its huge ask, including a lack of that final polish in the way it drives and rides.
Despite being a recent release, the EQA is already feeling beyond its age. For the money, the 350 4Matic feels out of its depth.