The Transit Connect looks small, but with 3,670 liters of cargo volume and rear doors that open 180 degrees (optional 255 degrees), there is lots of room for people and materials. The cargo van version is available with no side windows in the sliding side doors and privacy glass in the rear doors. You can also order it with no side or rear windows.
It also lends itself to becoming an office on wheels. Ford Work Solutions is a system that runs Windows CE 6.0 designed to access an office workstation computer remotely to download customer information or view a work order or delivery invoice. You can send and receive text messages. The Navigation screen pinpoints your delivery locations and the system allows hands-free calling via the Bluetooth. The in-dash computer tracks your tools through a program called Tool Link, by De-Walt. Using a radio frequency identification tag attached to each tool you can scan them as you load them into the van and know exactly what is on board and what you left behind.
The driver’s seat is manually adjustable (six-way) with built-in armrest, while the passenger has a four-way manually adjustable seat. Just like most cargo vans of today, the cab has all the features once reserved only for a car. An AM/FM radio with a bonus CD player and audio input jack. Available SYNC system to make hands free calls, embedded 4G LTE modem,(WIFI for up to 10 devices) rearview mirror backup camera, reverse sensing system, forward sensing system, and a 4.2-inch productivity screen that keeps you informed on fuel economy numbers as well as towing information. When you open the split rear doors, you get a true sense of this van’s functionality. The cargo areas floor to ceiling height is 150 centimeters and the width is 121 cm between the wheel wells. The load length is 184 cm and additional access is offered via the dual sliding doors. The cargo payload is an incredible 726 kilograms, more than some full-size pickup trucks. Optional second row, three passengers, split folding 60/40 cloth bench seat, and optional third row two passenger seating.
Standard front and side airbags will keep you safe in the event of a collision. Pre-collision assist with pedestrian detection, lane keeping system that can alert you if the vehicle drifts into another lane. You can select between steering vibration option or directional steering torque that guides you back into the lane, four-wheel anti-lock brakes and a tire-pressure-monitoring system are standard. For security, Ford has developed a locking latch shielded door lock system to help keep your contents safe. Ford MyKey technologies allow you to set speed limits and restrict audio volume.
This vehicle is powered by either a 2.0L GDI I-4 engine or a direct injected 1.5L EcoBlue engine, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. It puts out 162 horsepower and 144 lb-ft of torque.
While driving this Ford Transit Connect you feel like you’re driving a 2WD Ford Ranger. You’re able to maneuver around vehicles in tight parking lots and park in small parking spots, the only difference is you have a walk in cargo box on the back. This van would be perfect to convert into a special purpose van; it would be easy to add a wheelchair ramp or a lift without having to do too much modification.
Although this van has been available in the UK for many years it has only been available in North American since 2011. The popularity has increased and judging by its versatility and size, I think it is here to stay.
