2012 Ford Transit Connect XL Cargo Van

The Transit Connect is a purpose-built vehicle aimed at small-business owners, but it appeals as more than just a commercial vehicle. Offering 130 cubic feet of cargo volume accessed by wide-opening rear doors, the Transit Connect is easy to load because of its low floor and high roof. Available as either a two-seat cargo van or a four- or five-seat wagon with a folding second row, the Transit Connect is a versatile vehicle that can be adapted to several commercial uses. The 136-hp four-cylinder engine is matched to a four-speed automatic and prizes fuel economy over performance. Options include Crew Chief, an onboard device that tracks vehicle location, fuel economy, and idle time, plus vehicle diagnostics and maintenance capabilities. Until last year, the Transit Connect was available only as a commercial vehicle, but recently an XLT Premium wagon with seating for five was introduced. It is a good option for people who need to use their vehicle to haul people and yet still need the versatility and cargo capacity of a van, and it can also be ordered with a taxi package -- in fact, you may see some if you live in a large urban area such as Boston, Chicago, or New York. In addition, Ford has begun very limited production of the Transit Connect Electric, which is available only to fleet customers and is one of five electrified vehicles Ford plans to sell in the United States by the end of 2012.