Ford Bantam: Diesel power

The Ford Bantam range will be expanded with the introduction of diesel derivatives to the range for 2009. Subtle styling revisions have also been made to the interior and exterior while improved Noise Vibration and Harshness and improved body sealing, further strengthens the appeal of the Ford Bantam.

Having celebrated more than 25 years of service in South Africa, the Ford Bantam has developed a reputation for comfort, reliability and affordability. Ford has a comprehensive understanding of what customers are looking for thanks to over a century of experience in the Light Commercial Vehicle segment. Equipped with this knowledge Ford has tweaked certain aspects of the Bantam to make it relevant and up to date with current market requirements.

"The Ford Bantam is a well established product in the South African market place and we are pleased to be able to expand this offering with the introduction of diesel derivatives," says Ben Pillay, Ford Marketing Manager. "Consumers will now have even greater choice when looking for a new Bantam, while a number of upgrades to the range further improve on the overall offering."

There are three Bantam powertrains on offer: the existing 1.3-litre petrol, 1.6-litre petrol and now the 1.4-litre turbo diesel. The state of the art DuraTorq TDCi engine utilises a turbocharger and electronically controlled direct injection system to create a peak power output of 50kW at 4000rpm and a maximum torque of 160Nm at 2000rpm.

Noise reduction technology makes the 1.4TDCi one of the smoothest and quietest diesels in its class. The innovative technology incorporates a system called 'Accelerometer Pilot Control' (APC) - an ingenious system that monitors combustion noise levels. APC makes adjustments every 0.3 milliseconds to the pilot main injectors, to ensure an incredibly quiet drive. Further to this the body sealing of all models has been improved to ensure a comfortable interior environment.

The styling of the Bantam also gets a revamp for 2009. The range will now be offered with a redesigned front bumper and bonnet, complimented by newly styled front headlamps. The rear lamp cluster has also been updated, while new 14" alloy wheels complete the profile.

Other changes include: improved body sealing and on the inside a new instrument cluster and upgraded interior.

Comfort and convenience remain key features on the Bantam making it the perfect partner for both corporate and private sectors. Under the skin the layout remains unchanged. Riding on gas shocks and Macpherson struts the Bantam provides a comfortable driving experience normally associated with passenger vehicles.

The petrol powertrains remain unchanged with the 1.3-litre RoCam power plant producing 55kW at 5500rpm and 110Nm at 3000rpm while the 1.6-litre RoCam unit offers 70kW at 5500rpm and 137Nm from 2500rpm.

Various specification levels are on offer. The standard model comes equipped with air conditioning and a radio CD as an optional extra, while the XL model features two speakers, radio/CD, a rear step bumper, cab protector and body side mouldings as standard.

The XLT receives further features including: 14"alloy wheels, two extra speakers, front fog lamps, body colour bumpers and mirrors, power windows and mirrors, loadbox edge protectors and remote central locking.

Topping the range is the XLE with dual airbags, leather gear knob, leather steering wheel and body colour door handles.

The new 1.4 TDCi will be offered in its standard form, with A/C and XLT A/C configurations. Customers will have an even wider choice of Bantam models to choose from in 2009. With 14 models to choose from, there's a derivative on offer no matter what ones requirements are.

"An extended range of models as well as some key enhancements to the range make the Bantam an even more competitive offering for South African buyers who are looking for a capable yet well equipped and comfortable light commercial vehicle," concludes Pillay.