Ford Transit Bus VS Subaru Forester – Specs, Efficiency & Price Comparison

Ford Transit Bus

The Versatile Ford Transit Bus from Ford

The Ford Transit Bus has always been a leader in the category of commercial passenger vehicles, and the 2024 model continues this legacy with a blend of reliability, innovation and modern design. With a range of configurations, the Ford Transit Bus is aimed at meeting the needs of businesses and individuals who require a spacious, dependable mode of transport.

Under the Bonnet: Technical Mastery

Power comes from a 2.0 EcoBlue diesel engine, available in power outputs of 130 and 150 PS. The engine is combined with an automatic transmission, ensuring a smooth drive even when fully laden. This Euro 6 compliant powerplant is designed for efficiency without sacrificing performance, sporting a fuel consumption range of 9.4 to 9.5 L/100km and an associated CO2 output of 245 to 248 g/km. Such numbers ensure that the Ford Transit Bus strikes a balance between power and economy.

Room to Spare: Exceptional Capacity and Comfort

The Ford Transit Bus is not just about getting from A to B; it’s about transporting passengers with utmost comfort. Depending on the specifications, the bus can accommodate between eight to nine passengers. The spacious interior is accompanied by an array of comfort features under the ‘Trend Automatik’ trim level, offering a practical and enjoyable ride experience for both drivers and passengers alike.

Dimensions and Practicality

Designed with practicality in mind, the Ford Transit Bus boasts dimensions that are fully suited to a variety of professional needs. Its length ranges from 5531 to 5981 mm, with a consistent width of 2059 mm and a height range from 2530 to 2533 mm. This translates to a generous loading capacity with a payload ranging from 789 to 1162 kg, making it a versatile option for businesses requiring ample cargo space alongside passenger accommodation.

Advanced Technology for Modern Roads

Aside from its primary function as a people mover, the Ford Transit Bus also shines with its technological prowess. It integrates advanced driver assistance systems aimed at ensuring both active and passive safety. This includes features that help drivers navigate through complex traffic situations and ensure maximum safety for all passengers.

A Smart Investment

The Ford Transit Bus is a competitive contender in its segment, offering not just performance and reliability but also reasonable costing. With monthly running costs ranging from €1,654 to €1,730 and cost per kilometre between 66.2 and 69.2 cents, businesses can expect an affordable operation without unexpected hikes in upkeep costs.

In conclusion, the Ford Transit Bus remains a clear front-runner among its peers, offering a combination of cutting-edge technology, impressive fuel efficiency, and a spacious, comfortable interior. Whether you are looking to enhance your fleet or need a robust transport solution, the Ford Transit Bus is a sound choice for the discerning buyer in 2024.

Subaru Forester

The Subaru Forester: A Staple of Innovation

The Subaru Forester continues to stand out as a robust and reliable choice in the SUV market. Known for its rugged capabilities and thoughtful design, the Forester combines traditional Subaru strengths with modern technological innovations. As an all-wheel-drive vehicle, it promises safety, efficiency, and performance in a dynamic package.

Engineering and Performance

At the heart of the Subaru Forester lies its 2.0-litre petrol mild-hybrid engine, delivering a stout 150 PS and 194 Nm of torque. This power is channelled through an advanced CVT gearbox, ensuring smooth and responsive acceleration. The vehicle can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 11.8 seconds, showing its agility despite its SUV stature.

One of the highlights is its all-wheel-drive system, designed to offer excellent traction and stability across diverse driving conditions. The Forester provides a top speed of 188 km/h, ensuring an exciting drive whether you're navigating city streets or venturing onto the open road.

Technical Specifications

The Forester maintains a balance between practicality and efficiency. With a fuel consumption rate of 8.1 L/100km and CO2 emissions positioned at 185 g/km, this SUV provides an efficient yet powerful performance. The mild-hybrid system is supported by a 0.6 kWh battery, offering enhanced fuel economy and reducing environmental impact.

Weighing between 1658 and 1693 kg, the Forester is designed to offer both robustness and fuel efficiency. It boasts a generous cargo capacity of 509 litres, perfect for both daily use and adventurous getaways. The exterior dimensions—4640 mm in length, 1815 mm in width, and 1730 mm in height—strike a balance between presence and manoeuvrability.

Design and Interior Features

With a sleek and modern design, the Forester is available in several trims catering to different customer preferences, such as the Trend Lineartronic, Active Lineartronic, and the luxurious Edition Exclusive Cross Lineartronic. The interior space is noteworthy, providing comfortable seating for five passengers, making it an excellent option for family journeys.

Safety and convenience are paramount in the Forester, featuring driver assistance systems designed to support and protect. The model comes equipped with state-of-the-art technology to keep occupants entertained and connected, enhancing the driving experience significantly.

Affordability and Running Costs

Price-wise, the Subaru Forester ranges from €37,790 to €46,450, aligning with its features and capabilities. The monthly costs for ownership may vary between €1125 and €1221, with costs per kilometre ranging from 45 to 48.9 cents. For those seeking an SUV that's a combination of comfort, reliability, and reasonable running costs, the Forester presents a persuasive choice.

Conclusion

The Subaru Forester remains a solid contender in the SUV segment, offering a mix of performance, practicality, and modern features. This vehicle is engineered for those who desire a dependable and versatile companion for all their adventures. With its blend of innovative technologies and classic Subaru reliability, the Forester continues to be an attractive option for discerning drivers.