LIFE on the road is about to get more interesting for small business owners and their staff as Ford returns to the urban hatchback van market with an all-new Fiesta Sport Van.

Responding to strong customer demand, the Fiesta Sport Van will return to the Ford commercial vehicle line-up later this year along with a fully kitted-out, special new version of the Ranger pick up.

Powered by a one-litre EcoBoost engine with 125PS or a 120PS 1.5-litre TDCi diesel, the Fiesta Sport van will swallow around a cubic metre of cargo in its near-1.3 metre long rear compartment which is separated from the front seats by a composite and mesh full bulkhead.

But the clincher for business owners who need to use their van for more than just the daily delivery grind, will be the Sport Van's car-like comfort and trim levels which provide the latest interior technologies, including Ford's SYNC 3 communications and entertainment system.

Compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto™, the SYNC 3 system is standard, and comes with a floating, eight-inch colour touchscreen. Using the Ford SYNC AppLink feature, drivers are able to access a wide range of key apps from their smartphone using the large display in the vehicle including the popular Waze traffic app and Cisco WebEx.

There are revised seats and trim materials, as well as model-specific steering wheel, pedals and gear lever. An adjustable speed limiter and lane keeping system are standard while options include heated seats and steering wheel.

A wide range of driver assistance technologies can also be specified including preâcollision assist with pedestrian detection emergency braking system, adaptive cruise control and blind spot information system.

Launched at the Commercial Vehicle Show in Birmingham, the new Fiesta Sport Van will go on sale in the autumn joining another newcomer to Ford's CV range, the Ranger Wildtrak X which also makes its debut at the CV show.

On sale in August the new double-cab features Performance Blue metallic paint with black detailing on the radiator grille, sport bar, roof rails, side steps, alloy wheels and premium trim in the cabin including black, full-leather seats.