Ford Transit Connect Passenger Vans/Minivans
About Ford Transit Connect Passenger
Available in passenger or cargo form, the 2017 Ford Transit Connect is smaller than traditional minivans like the Honda Odyssey and full-size commercial vans like its own big brother the Ford Transit, yet big enough to carry up to seven people or accommodate over 128 cubic feet of cargo. Unlike rivals such as the Ram ProMaster City and Nissan NV200, the 2017 Transit Connect is offered in two sizes: short or long wheelbase. At about the same length as a midsize sedan, even an extended-length Transit Connect is a snap to maneuver and can be parked in a residential garage. In addition to its easy driving manners, the standard 4-cylinder is efficient, good for the bottom line of families and businesses.
The formerly optional 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine is no longer available, leaving the standard 2.5-liter 4-cylinder as the sole powerplant. The new Sync 3 telematics system is offered in higher trims, and the top-line Titanium passenger model can now be had in short-wheelbase form.
For 2016, the Transit Connect Wagon can be had with a pair of captain's chairs in the second row instead of the 3-person bench. Also, blind-spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert is now optional on XLT and Titanium variants of the Transit Connect Wagon.
As it was just introduced last year, this newest generation of the Transit Connect has only minor updates. For 2015, Ford's small van gains a new color (Magnetic Metallic) and a rear cargo cover for short-wheelbase models with a liftgate.
The only thing the 2014 Ford Transit Connect shares with the model it replaces is the name. It uses a new platform, has slick new styling, two new engines backed by a new transmission, it's now available with two wheelbase lengths, and there are new tech infotainment options.
The mobility package, making access easier for those with physical handicaps, has been updated by Ford's aftermarket partner, MobilityWorks. FYI: An all-new 2014 Transit Connect has been revealed, and while its launch date for the U.S. has not been formally announced it should arrive stateside in the second half of 2013.
For 2012, the Transit Connect is equipped with Ford's AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control. Previously optional, AdvanceTrac is an electronic traction and stability control program that greatly increases safety. A passenger-friendly XLT Premium Wagon is added to the lineup, featuring a three-person second-row bench seat.
For 2011, Ford adds a compressed natural gas package, taxi prep package, Mobility prep package and an XLT Premium upgrade package. Also new is an online custom-graphics program that allows owners to create custom graphic appliques for their Transit Connects.
After years of great success in Europe and elsewhere, the Ford Transit Connect has been brought to the United States for those buyers looking for something big enough to carry moderately large cargo, small enough to easily navigate narrow roads and equipped with the necessary in-cabin technology capable of keeping their cargo, jobs and daily lives organized.
