The 2013 Ford Transit Connect offers considerable space and utility at minivan prices. The Turkish-built van may look a bit out of place driving down the street in America, but people are not likely to buy it for its looks anyway. Ford does offer a trim model with rear seating in an effort to appeal to the family demographic, although odds remain slim that families would choose the 2013 Ford Transit Connect over the competition. Still, the low price, which seems affordable regardless of the trim, might lure families on a budget. An electric option is more expensive and unlikely to attract much interest, particularly as all trim models of the 2013 Ford Transit Connect receive relatively strong fuel economy. Ultimately, the base makes the smart choice as it offers increased cargo capacity, but the ride feels a bit harsh for rear passengers. 2013 marks the final year that Ford will produce the Transit Connect and one can expect that it will manufacture a more contemporary alternative in 2014. However, one of the real benefits of buying the 2013 Ford Transit Connect is that there should be considerable discounts as dealers make space for the redesign.
New For 2013
The Ford Transit Connect Electric is no longer available. The sole engine remains the 2.0-liter four-cylinder, which runs on gasoline but can be converted to use Compressed Natural/Liquefied Petroleum Gas. Otherwise, the Transit Connect, available as a traditional van or as a ""wagon"" with seating for five passengers and their luggage, remains unchanged.
Exterior
The 2013 Ford Transit Connect is certainly striking, although not in a stylish way. The van emphasizes function over form, with a severe, boxy shape that draws attention. Vans do not get attention for their styling, but the 2013 Ford Transit Connect makes most minivans look downright stylish in comparison. Of course, placed alongside commercial vehicles the Transit Connect actually looks relatively tame, so one’s opinion of the styling depends on expectations. With its low floors and tall ceiling, the frame is great for handicapped passengers, making the XLT Wagon a worthy option. The sides have a sheet metal frame coated with plastic, making the doors resistant to scratches and minor bumps. The long nose is also ideal for commercial advertising.
Interior & Cargo
The interior of the 2013 Ford Transit Connect looks immense and offers incredible bang for the buck for commercial use. The layout of the interior varies depending on whether buyers spring for the XL two-seat cargo van or the XLT wagon, which keeps families in mind and seats up to five people. The chief difference between the two trims is that the XL cargo van has no rear bench seats while the XLT wagon offers a row of bench seats. Those who opt for the wagon can fold down the bench seats, although the cargo space is still slightly less than the XL. However, it is unlikely that rear passengers will be thrilled to ride in the 2013 Ford Transit Connect, as the rear does not offer much in the way of amenities.
Although the Transit Connect includes few interior amenities and storage pockets, the van’s calling card is its sheer volume of space. The space relates not only to the cargo capacity but also to legroom, and both front and rear passengers (on the wagon trim) enjoy ample leg space. The commercial demographic appreciates the 132.cubic feet of passenger volume. Also, the amenities focus on commercial use. These include a Crew Chief option that allows drivers to track location, fuel economy, idle time, and maintenance statistics. Another appealing touch is the rearview camera, which allows drivers to monitor their cargo at all times. Technologically sound drivers appreciate the Bluetooth capability.
Safety
The 2013 Ford Transit Connect offers standard stability control, anti-lock brakes, and six airbags. The doors are very strong, and the wide doors ensure safe entry and exit.
Driving Experience
Driving the 2013 Ford Transit Connect offers a surprisingly nimble experience. Evaluating the driving experience seems a bit difficult because the category to which it belongs is not entirely clear. It suffers when compared to Japanese minivans but excels when compared with larger commercial vehicles.
The 2013 Ford Transit Connect steers quite well and feels very maneuverable. It also offers 128 lb-ft of torque. Commercial drivers who spend most of their time in crowded areas or city streets blend in comfortably with traffic. The automatic transmission and 136-horsepower, four-cylinder engine seems decidedly non-powerful and the car offers front drive. The main benefit of being slightly underpowered is that fuel economy estimates look quite strong. Drivers can expect to receive a more than respectable 21/27 mpg city/highway. From a standstill, Ford estimates that the 2013 Ford Transit goes from zero to 60 mph in 10.6 seconds. What the car gains in utility it loses in aerodynamics. While its acceleration figures are certainly slow, this unlikely deters the more utilitarian commercial clientele that Ford targets with this vehicle.
Key Competitors For The 2013 Ford Transit-Connect
- Chevrolet Express
- Dodge Grand Caravan
- GMC Savana
- Toyota Sienna