A highly modernized 2019 Ford Transit Connect was introduced yesterday at the 2018 Chicago Auto Show, offering a new choice of engines and integrating a range of electronic drive assist systems that respond to the needs of buyers who use this specific transportation mode.
Now available to power the Transit Connect are a 2.0L 4-cylinder gasoline engine with direct injection and standard stop-start functionality and a 1.5L 4-cylinder turbo engine called EcoBlue. Power capabilities for each of these configurations have still to be announced. Each is mated to a new 8-speed automatic transmission. When equipped with the available trailer tow package, the 2019 Transit Connect can pull up to 2,000 lbs.
In term of safety, new technologies incorporated into the 2019 edition include automatic emergency braking and segment-exclusive pre-collision assist with pedestrian detection; available add-ons include adaptive cruise control, blind spot information, cross-traffic alert and lane keeping assist.
In Canada, the 2019 Ford Transit Connect will be offered as a long-wheelbase model able to accommodate seven passengers, and in three trims: XL, XLT and Titanium. As before, the interior is versatile and substantially configurable, featuring more usable space behind the front seats than the Chevrolet Tahoe, for example, and roof rails enable the installation of racks and other accessories.
Among the other modern features added to the small van from Ford are a 6.5-inch touchscreen, a digital driver information screen behind the steering wheel, a wireless charging deck for smartphones, the SYNC3 system, WiFi connectivity via FordPass Connect and even the WAZE application for navigating through traffic.
The 2019 Ford Transit Connect will go to market this coming fall. The automaker will be announcing pricing and detailed information regarding standard and optional equipment shortly before launch.
