The all new Ford Transit Connect is the first vehicle in its class to find its way to the United States market. The compact van market is larger in other countries, but Ford thinks that it's time to change that and bring the new Connect directly to the US. These vans are mostly targeted at small businesses and those who need a van for their business or commercial application. The Transit Connect offers a much more affordable but equally convenient cargo van option to businesses. This vehicle is highly customizable to make it work for almost any application imaginable and comes in the passenger or cargo versions.
The Ford Transit Connect offers a lot of flexibility in an affordable package. This vehicle starts at $21,200 and goes up as you add on extra features and upgrades. The narrow wheel base and tall structure make the side of these vans perfect for advertising and fancy branded paintjobs on these small vans. The Transit Connect will start to be seen this year so it will be interesting how many small businesses start to make use of this functional and affordable commercial work van.
The Range
Bodystyles: Van
Engines: 2.0L I-4
Transmissions: 4-speed automatic
Models: XL Van, XL Wagon, XLT Van, XLT Wagon
What's New
The 2010 model year is the debut year for the Transit Connect in the U.S. market. Globally, the vehicle has been largely unchanged since its debut in 2002, though it received a minor facelift prior to its launch in North America.
Exterior
With its short wheelbase and tall cargo area, the Transit Connect has awkward proportions. Van models get steel panels in place of rear-side and rear windows.
Interior
When configured as a passenger wagon, the Transit Connect provides plenty of space for five passengers. In panel van form, only one row of seats is present, offering 135.3 cubic-feet of cargo space.
Performance & Handling
The Ford Transit Connect comes exclusively with a 136 horsepower 2.0-liter I-4 mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission. Though somewhat low on power and short on cogs by consumer standards, the powertrains offers adequate fuel economy and comparable power to that of a compact truck like the Ford Ranger. At 1,600 pounds, max payload is pickup-like as well.
Safety
The Transit Connect comes with dual front and front side-impact airbags standard. Also standard is traction control, roll stability control, and a tire-pressure monitoring system. A reverse sensor system is optional.
EPA Fuel Economy
22 mpg city/25 mpg highway
You'll Like
- Amazing versatility
- Good fuel economy
You Won't Like
- Dated four-speed automatic
Sum Up
Work van for smaller jobs
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