The Ford Transit Connect shares its platform with the Focus, The wagon is available in XL, XLT and Titanium trims, while the van comes only in XL and XLT. A 2.5L 4-cylinder is standard across the lineup, while a 1.6-liter turbocharged four is available in the XLT wagon and in both van trims. Both engines are mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. Equipped with the 1.6-liter turbo, the Transit Connect is capable of up to 30 mpg on the highway -- excellent for such a utilitarian vehicle.
The Transit Connect wagon features large rear windows and rear seats for hauling passengers. It can be had in both short- and long-wheelbase versions, with long-wheelbase wagons available with third row seating, making them roomy enough for up to seven passengers. Other utility options include the choice between a rear liftgate or rear symmetrical opening doors.
Interior options are also plentiful and run anywhere from basic vinyl upholstery all the way up to panoramic sunroofs and complex in-car entertainment systems, complete with Bluetooth connectivity and a backup camera.
The XL is the most basic variant, while the XLT includes a 4.2-inch screen, cruise control and a Smart Key entry system. While XL and XLT wagon trims echo their cargo van counterparts, the top-level Titanium trim adds a considerable dose of luxury to the Transit Connect lineup. The Titanium edition's interior is upholstered in leather, while the stereo makes use of Ford's Sync system. A set of fog lamps sharpen up the exterior.
All Transit Connect vans feature front and side airbags for the first row as well as side curtain airbags, anti-lock brakes, traction control and a tire pressure monitoring system.
Cargo Capacity And Flexibility
Fuel-efficient Powertrain
Car-like Handling
Maneuverability And Parking Ease
Following a complete redesign for 2014, the Ford Transit Connect Wagon is largely unchanged for 2015.
The Ford Transit Connect is a small commercial van or passenger wagon that makes the most of its size to haul up to 1,600 pounds of cargo in commercial guise or, when configured for people moving, up to seven passengers. Ideal for small urban businesses or for families who want a solid alternative to the traditional minivan, the Transit Connect starts at $22,000 ($24,500 for the passenger version), about the price of a compact car. In addition to its low price of entry, the Transit Connect promises to be inexpensive to run as well, with both available engines being efficient four-cylinder types. The Transit Connect is extremely configurable as well, offering a choice of interior appointments and wheelbases, making it the right vehicle for a wide range of jobs.