The Transit Connect is a European Ford product that’s new to the shores of North America. Built in Turkey, this Ford Focus-based van is intended to economically meet light-duty commercial needs globally. A 4-cylinder gas engine connected to the front wheels through 4-speed automatic transmission propels this unique offering from the Blue Oval.
Form follows function
Appearing odd to the North American eye, the Transit Connect’s styling is subjugated to its functionality. All too often in North America we seek form over function, so from that perspective alone the Transit Connect is a game changer.
This is a vehicle built around moving cargo as expeditiously as possible without wasting space or fuel. The boxy shape of its body is designed to accommodate tall, bulky items or provide plenty of wall space for shelving and cabinetry.
Despite the versatility and space usage potential, the overall length of the Transit Connect is no more than a few inches greater than that of the Focus. Along with a tight turning radius, the diminutive length makes parking the Transit Connect a snap.
Functionality exists in more than just size and shape though. For example, at a push of a button the twin rear cargo doors can be detached from their limiters to allow a full 180-degrees of swing.
A flat load floor enables easy loading while two, wide sliding side doors enable broad access from either side of the vehicle. Maximum payload for the Transit Connect is 728kg (1,605lbs.).
Plenty of nooks and crannies exist within the Transit Connect’s cargo volume of 3,830-litres (135.3 cu. Ft.) in which to organize smaller items such as paperwork. Notable for its convenience is a large netted shelf above the driver and passenger seat.
The mechanics of small
In keeping with the “small is big” theme of this van, Ford has chosen to power it with their venerable 2.0-litre 4-cylinder Duratec gas engine. In this application, the rugged mill generates an estimated 138 horsepower and an estimated 132 pound-feet of torque.
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| Ford’s little wonder van is highly unique in the current, North American automotive landscape. |
Form follows function
Appearing odd to the North American eye, the Transit Connect’s styling is subjugated to its functionality. All too often in North America we seek form over function, so from that perspective alone the Transit Connect is a game changer.
This is a vehicle built around moving cargo as expeditiously as possible without wasting space or fuel. The boxy shape of its body is designed to accommodate tall, bulky items or provide plenty of wall space for shelving and cabinetry.
Despite the versatility and space usage potential, the overall length of the Transit Connect is no more than a few inches greater than that of the Focus. Along with a tight turning radius, the diminutive length makes parking the Transit Connect a snap.
Functionality exists in more than just size and shape though. For example, at a push of a button the twin rear cargo doors can be detached from their limiters to allow a full 180-degrees of swing.
A flat load floor enables easy loading while two, wide sliding side doors enable broad access from either side of the vehicle. Maximum payload for the Transit Connect is 728kg (1,605lbs.).
Plenty of nooks and crannies exist within the Transit Connect’s cargo volume of 3,830-litres (135.3 cu. Ft.) in which to organize smaller items such as paperwork. Notable for its convenience is a large netted shelf above the driver and passenger seat.
The mechanics of small
In keeping with the “small is big” theme of this van, Ford has chosen to power it with their venerable 2.0-litre 4-cylinder Duratec gas engine. In this application, the rugged mill generates an estimated 138 horsepower and an estimated 132 pound-feet of torque.
 |
| Plenty of nooks and crannies exist within the Transit Connect’s cargo volume of 3,830-litres (135.3 cu. Ft.) |