Here's all you need to know about the Ford Transit Connect, the small van with A LOT to offer. Vanarama Van Expert Tom Roberts reports.
The Ford Transit Connect took its first steps across Europe in 2002 – over 14 years ago! Since then, it's definitely aged gracefully, in fact, this van proves that age is just a number because it certainly looks better than it did in 2002. With a few nips & tucks along the way, this van is still standing as a strong contender in the small van sector.
The all-new Ford Transit Connect is available as a single cab van & you have the choice of 2 wheelbases – L1 (3m) & L2 (3.4m). You'll also get to choose from 2 engines – EcoBoost petrol or EcoBlue diesel.
Right, now for the detail. Read our in-depth review for the L1 Ford Transit Connect below…
Love At First Sight
Right, let's just point out the obvious – this small van is a looker. There's nothing ugly about the appearance of the Ford Transit Connect.
So first let's focus on the grille. One word, iconic. Over the years the grille has got noticeably bigger! The design was a bit bland at the front – the grille was almost unnoticeable when the van first appeared in 2002. Now, the grille has tripled in size & is the main act when it comes to the front of this Ford.
Next up are the features to prove that this van is all about function. Say hello to automatic headlights & wipers.
Let's be honest – we've all forgotten to switch on our headlights & the only reason you realise that they're not on is because of people flashing you with their lights. And, when this does happen, I can't be the only one who curses in sheer confusion at the people trying to tell me that I haven't got my lights on. It normally takes a few flashes before it finally clicks – oh that's why they couldn't see me in the dark because my lights were off.
The point is, automatic headlights are a blessing in disguise. You won't need to worry about having to switch them on & off, because switching them off is also something you must remember to do otherwise, they will drain your battery.
And the automatic wipers? Well, when it's raining (weather that we're more than used to in the UK), this van does all the work for you. To put it simply – when rain lands on the windscreen the wipers will automatically kick in & be pre-set at a suitable speed depending on the amount of rainfall, genius! Oh, & if you want to control the wipers manually, you can.
Finally, the body coloured door handles & mirrors. Both come as standard when you choose the Ford Transit Connect 'Limited' – our tried & tested model. If you're like me & prefer things to match, pick our model or one of these exterior trims: 'Trend' or 'Sport'. Both also include body coloured door handles & mirrors as standard.
It's Cosy In The Cabin
Now, let us introduce you to the cabin.
When you step inside, you'll notice that it's VERY different to the Citroen Relay. Apart from the obvious – the size difference between the two, this small van has a car-like cabin which ramps up the standard of tech & helps place it well in front of the Citroen Relay's cabin.
Here's a breakdown of what's included in this cosy cabin if you pick the 'Limited' model…
- Keyless start – sick of losing your keys? Problem solved.
- Luxury leather steering wheel.
- Cruise control – perfect for long commutes.
- Rear parking sensors that make reversing into tight spaces easy.
- DAB radio with built in Bluetooth – connect your phone to the Bluetooth system & you can control the 4.2-inch infotainment screen using your voice.
- USB ports, heated seats & air con.
Oh, & here's another shout out for the keyless start. So, this might sound confusing but hear me out…
You will get a key, even though it's a push-button start. Ford call it 'MyKey' which when inserted into the slot near the start button, allows you to pre-set your driving mode. You'll have the option to predetermine your vehicles speed, audio volume, set a seatbelt reminder & more.
But what about storage? This van might be small but it's certainly spacious. The cabin is packed to the brim with storage bins & cup holders. Look straight ahead & you'll see the smallest storage hub, which by the way, is the perfect size to fit your favourite chocolate bar – my choice? Definitely a Snickers. Look to your left & you'll see more space for storage – this storage hub is about half the size of a kitchen sink. There's also 2 gloveboxes, which are perfect for holding excess storage.
One more thing to add – the VERY generous headroom. Now when I sat in the driver's seat, I felt pocket-sized. Which by the way, isn't a bad feeling, after all it's better than being cramped? If you're feeling a bit in superior, adjust the seat, problem solved.
Size Matters
Yes, size does matter… if you're a tradesman. Just so we're on the same page, we're both thinking about the loading bay of a van, right? If you were thinking about something else, shame on you!
Anyway, back to the topic of interest – the loading bay. The Ford Transit Connect falls into the small van sector but look in the back & you'll be impressed by the sizable loading bay. The loadspace in our L1 model is 1.5m in length & has a 1.5m width (1.2m between the wheel arches). What about its payload? This model can hold a 600kg-740kg load. Impressive for a small van, ey?
Want to up your payload? Make way for the L2 model – its max payload can hold over 1000kg! This van is also available as a double cab or single cab, the choice is yours!
Dreamy To Drive
Is it a car or is it a van?
Okay, it's definitely a van, but take it for a spin and you'll feel like you're driving a car. Want to know why? Keep reading…
The 1.5-litre EcoBlue Diesel, 6-speed Ford Transit Connect that we reviewed drives like a dream. Let's give some of the credit to the VERY responsive gearbox. When we took it for a burn it didn't disappoint, we didn't find ourselves waiting for a reaction when we changed gears. This might not come as shock, after all small vans are lighter on their feet, but if you were having doubts, you shouldn't worry.
Let's praise the low turning circle too, another feature that makes this van feel more car-like. Here's our piece of mind promise – rest assured that you'll be able to make a (legal) U-turn almost effortlessly.
We've saved the best till last…
This van is also available with a 1-litre EcoBoost Petrol engine. If you do choose the 1.5-litre EcoBlue Diesel model, you'll get the choice of 74bhp, 99bhp or 118bhp.
We've Got A Connect(ion) With This Van
If you're looking for a small van, the Ford Transit Connect is a great choice. It's easy on the eye, there's tons of tech in the cabin, it's small but spacious & it feels like a car to drive, what more could you want from a van?
FAQs
How reliable is Transit Connect? ›
The Ford Transit Connect Reliability Rating is 3.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 5th out of 21 for commercial vans. The average annual repair cost is $926 which means it has poor ownership costs.
Are Ford Transit Connect Good vans? ›Highs Highly configurable, relatively nimble, very versatile. Lows Inferior interior, weakling engine, abrupt ride. Verdict Practical and versatile, the diminutive Transit Connect is a Swiss army knife of a city van.
What is the life expectancy of a Ford Transit Connect? ›The Ford Transit has an expected mileage of around 150,000 miles. However, if you take good care of your van and ensure that it gets all the regular maintenance it needs, you can expect a mileage of around 300,000 miles. Some van owners have reported actively using their vehicles for 10 to 15 years.
Does Ford Transit Connect have transmission problems? ›Such problems aren't hard to spot. 2020 Ford Transit Connect transmission problems could include shifting delays, grinding when accelerating, the car shaking at any speed, or whistling noises and a burning smell coming from under the hood.
What problems do Ford Transit Connect have? ›- Rodent Damage to Soy-Based Wire Coating. Newer Ford vehicles use an electrical wire coating that is a more eco-friendly, soy-based material. ...
- MyFord Touch Complaints. Ford's customer satisfaction has been in steady decline since 2010.
Ford Motor Company (NYSE:F) will reportedly stop selling the Transit Connect van in the United States by the end of next year after seeing sluggish sales. The model was being built in Spain.
Which cargo van is most reliable? ›- Ford Transit Cargo Van.
- Mercedes Benz Sprinter Cargo Van.
- Freightliner Sprinter.
- Chevrolet Express Cargo Van.
- GMC Savana Cargo Van.
- RAM ProMaster Cargo Van.
- Nissan NV2500 Cargo Van.
The Sprinter has more clearance than the Transit or ProMaster. This is a significant advantage when going off-roading or driving in the snow. The Sprinter beats both the Transit and ProMaster for driver and front-seat comfort. There is significantly more legroom and headroom in the Sprinter.
What to look for when buying a Transit Connect? ›- Inspect tyres for splits, bulges or uneven wear on the treads. ...
- Check the load area. ...
- Ensure basics such as the door handles and radio work. ...
- Get a feel for the brakes to rule out any squeaking or grinding noises. ...
- Seatbelts all need to be working for the van to be road legal.
The Ford Transit Connect is pretty small by campervan standards. You can't quite stand in it, and the LWB model is JUST long enough to sleep in for most normally proportioned people.
What is the best Ford Transit to buy? ›
The Ford E-Transit sets the standard to which other large electric vans should aspire. Not only is it cheaper than rivals but it is better built, goes further, is more powerful and has an excellent payload. In short, it is the best option out there at the moment.
Are transit engines reliable? ›The Reliability of Ford Transit Engines
According to Ford's recommendations, the average MK7 Ford Transit engine should last for 150,000 miles before requiring any major repairs – some owners even manage to get double that.
There are tons of reasons that make a Ford Transit a great choice for van life: Ford has a great reputation for its vehicles offering a reliable platform to build on. The price point is lower than a Sprinter, starting at $35,000 for the 2022 Ford Transit van.
How much should I pay for a Ford Transit Connect? ›2023 FORD TRANSIT CONNECT® PASSENGER WAGON
As Shown $40,940 8 2023 Transit Connect Titanium Passenger Wagon Long Wheelbase (120.6) and other optional equipment included. Aftermarket Accessories shown.
What's the best Ford Transit Connect model/engine to choose? There's no need to go to extremes with the Ford Transit Connect, and the middle of the range is where you will find the version that will suit most buyers. The 100PS 1.5-litre diesel gives a good blend of pulling power and economy.
Are Transit Connects good on fuel? ›According to Ford, it'll also return an impressive 65.7mpg average fuel economy if you're particularly careful with your right foot, which means it's one seriously frugal van.
What is the difference between Ford Transit and Ford Transit Connect? ›The Transit can seat from five to 15 passengers or provide 246.7 to 487.2 cu. -ft. of maximum cargo space, while the 2020 Transit Connect can seat five, six, or seven passengers or provide 104.8 to 127.4 cu. -ft.
What year did Ford Transit Connect avoid? ›This kept them from using their vans for a long time. Aside from the 2012 redesign, some 2013-2021 Transit Connects have also been reported to have transmission issues. Early in 2021, Ford issued a recall for over 192,000 2013-2021 Transit Connects due to their high probability of rolling away when in park mode.
What is Ford replacing the Transit Connect? ›Ford has already shown a look to the future with the 2023 Ford E-Transit. The third electric vehicle from Ford, the E-Transit looks to be an environmentally friendly way for businesses to ship their goods around cities.
What is similar to Ford Transit Connect? ›Ford Transit Connect Van. Mercedes-Benz Metris Cargo Van. Ram ProMaster Cargo Van.
Which cargo van is better Ford or Ram? ›
The ProMaster offers more minimum cargo space, but the Transit has more maximum cargo space. The Transit offers an extra roof height, and the ProMaster offers more wheelbase and length options. Overall, both the RAM ProMaster and Ford Transit cargo vans deliver on price, value and versatility.
What van is best to buy? ›- 2023 Toyota Sienna. ...
- 2023 Honda Odyssey. ...
- 2023 Chrysler Pacifica. Compare Model. ...
- 2022 Ford Transit Connect Van. Compare Model. ...
- 2022 Ram ProMaster City Wagon. Compare Model. ...
- 2022 Mercedes‑Benz Metris Cargo Van. Compare Model. ...
- 2022 Ford Transit Crew Van. Compare Model. ...
- 2023 Ram ProMaster Cargo Van. Compare Model.
- The Madness In The Method. ...
- Small Van: Volkswagen Caddy. ...
- Small Van: Fiat Doblo. ...
- Medium Van: Ford Transit Custom. ...
- Medium Van: Vauxhall Vivaro. ...
- Large Van: Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. ...
- Large Van: Volkswagen Crafter. ...
- Pickup Truck: Toyota Hilux.
The Ford Transit is an easy decision to make from a cost-efficiency standpoint. The Transit also boasts a strong fuel economy and low running costs, making it a financially appealing option for business owners looking for a cargo van.
Which is better Ford Transit or Dodge ProMaster? ›Between the 2021 Ford Transit and the Ram ProMaster engines, you will see a minor difference in performance ratings. While Ford's commercial van offers a potent transmission option, the new Ram ProMaster provides better horsepower ratings.
What is the easiest van to convert into a camper? ›- Volkswagen Transporter. The Volkswagen Transporter is one of the best-known vans for camper conversions. ...
- Ford Transit. Some say the wide-bodied Ford Transit is the best van for camper conversion. ...
- Renault Trafic. ...
- Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. ...
- Fiat Ducato. ...
- Vauxhall Vivaro.
Compared to the 2021 Nissan NV200, the 2021 Ford Transit Connect offers greater seating capacity, more available safety technology and more power from either of its four-cylinder engine options. Coming in passenger or cargo van models, the 2021 Ford Transit Connect is available in XL, XLT and Titanium trim levels.
How many miles per gallon does a Transit Connect get? ›IMPRESSIVE FUEL ECONOMY
*EPA-estimated rating of 24 city/27 hwy/25 combined mpg, 2.0L engine.
The 2021 Ford Transit Connect Cargo Van can help get you around affordably with its EPA estimated of 24 city/27 hwy/25 combined mpg.
Can a queen mattress fit in a Ford Transit Connect? ›Mainly, the mattress needed to be long enough for John (who is 6' tall) to stretch out completely. With that, we decided on a queen sized mattress but would need to cut the width to custom fit in the wood, bed platform. Another necessary factor: the mattress needed to be thin enough to fold.
What is the speed limit for a Ford Transit Connect? ›
That means the speed limit for a Ford Transit is 50mph on a national speed limit road. And the speed limit for a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van is also just 50mph. That's what you need to know about when it comes to vans.
Can you convert a Ford Transit Connect into a camper? ›Transit Connects can work great for small camper van conversions. Because of its boxy design, you can easily build it out as a camper van for one or two people. Many plans have included a fold-down or slide-out bed, small sink, storage shelves, a 12V refrigerator, and a hidden porta-potty.
Is a Ford Transit good on gas? ›The Ford Transit Connect Van is a 2-seater vehicle that comes in 2 trim levels. The most popular style is the XL with Rear Symmetrical Doors LWB, which starts at $31,760 and comes with a 2.0L I4 engine and Front Wheel Drive. This Transit Connect Van is estimated to deliver 24 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway.
Are Transit vans good on gas? ›Here is the MPG that each of these smaller vans offers: Ford Transit Connect: 24 miles per gallon. RAM ProMaster City: 21 miles per gallon.
Is a Ford Transit a comfortable ride? ›Driving the 2023 Ford Transit 150 Crew Van
The Ford Transit is an easy van to drive despite its substantial size. We found the steering precise, the brakes responsive, and the ride quality smooth and comfortable on long-distance drives. We also noticed that Ford made it surprisingly quiet inside, even on the highway.
...
Ford Transit China Sales Figures.
| Ford Transit | |
|---|---|
| 2017 | 45.538 |
| 2016 | 67.326 |
Transit bodies are incredibly susceptible to rust—the old nemesis of all machinery. This goes for both well-used and even new models of the van. When your Transit finally kicks the bucket, it's most likely going to be rust that does it in.
Who makes transit engines? ›...
First generation (1965)
| First generation | |
|---|---|
| Production | 1965–1977 |
- Having Little Space. Living in a small place can be constricting and challenging at times. ...
- Challenging Housework. ...
- Experiencing Breakdowns or Accidents. ...
- Adapting to the Toilet and Shower Situation in the Van. ...
- Experiencing Parking Problems. ...
- Having To Choose Among Limited Job Opportunities. ...
- Lack of Privacy.
Further to this, most cargo vans have reliably covered 150,000 miles with little to no issues. However, it is not uncommon for these vehicles to reach 250,000 miles. Therefore, based on this information, a 150,000-mile van should be the maximum mileage target if you want to get some good use out of it.
How many miles does a Ford Transit get per tank? ›
The standard Ford Transit fuel tank is a 25 gallon tank. If you refill when you've got 2 gallons left, at the EPA combined rating, that gets you 368 miles. Ford also offers an optional 31 gallon tank - this one will get you 464 miles if you refill with 2 gallons left.
Is the Ford Transit Connect reliable? ›The Ford Transit Connect Reliability Rating is 3.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 5th out of 21 for commercial vans. The average annual repair cost is $926 which means it has poor ownership costs.
What Insurance Group is a Ford Transit Connect? ›| Model | Body Type | Insurance Group - vans registered pre January 2016 (1-20) |
|---|---|---|
| Fiesta | Van | 1 - 5 |
| Ranger | Pickup & Tipper | 9 - 13 |
| Transit | Van & Pickup | 5 - 16 |
| Transit Connect | Van | 3 - 10 |
While not exactly powerful — the 169-horsepower 2.5-liter inline-4 comes up about 100 ponies short against rivals — the Transit Connect stretches 190 inches long. That makes it more than a foot shorter than “mini” vans such as the Chrysler Pacifica and Toyota Sienna.
Whats the difference between XL and XLT Ford Transit Connect? ›The XL trim comes with 16-inch styled steel wheels in painted shadow silver whereas the XLT trim has aluminum wheels painted in sparkle silver. XLT trim also has dual-zone front automatic temperature control available which is not the case in the XL trim.
Where is Ford Transit Connect made? ›According to Automotive News, however, that niche is about to get smaller at the end of 2023, when Ford plans to discontinue the Transit Connect in the States. The current Transit Connect is imported from Spain as a passenger van; cargo vans are stripped of seats stateside to avoid paying the 25 percent chicken tax.
How reliable is Moovit? ›Yes: Moovit gives real time information, like when exactly you can expect the next bus to turn up (and any site that gives such information will be equally accurate since they use the same information) - but for timetables you need to look at other sites.
What to look for when buying a transit connect? ›- Inspect tyres for splits, bulges or uneven wear on the treads. ...
- Check the load area. ...
- Ensure basics such as the door handles and radio work. ...
- Get a feel for the brakes to rule out any squeaking or grinding noises. ...
- Seatbelts all need to be working for the van to be road legal.
Moovit has an easy-to-download System Route and Schedule Map, that serves as your offline Grand Forks map while traveling. This map can be saved in your phone and it's easy to share with friends. To view the downloaded map, no internet connection is required.
Can I use Moovit without WIFI? ›It can't work offline.
Is free transport a good idea? ›
Economists tend to argue that free public transport is irrational and uneconomical because it generates “useless mobility”.