What is a Ford Transit Connect Van? - All You Need to Know

It's a model you've almost certainly heard of, but how much do you really know about the popular Ford Transit Connect van?

Essentially, Ford Europe developed this small panel model, and it's built on a dedicated commercial vehicle platform. It shares some elements with the old Escort van.

Designer Peter Horbury created the first version in 2002 to replace the previous Escort and Fiesta-based Courier ranges, which were withdrawn the same year.

The Transit Connect is a good choice for anyone wanting a compact vehicle which still offers a decently roomy interior - in a sector in which there is stiff competition.

There have been two generations of this model to date; the first from its inception in 2002 to 2013, the second from 2014 until now. Additionally, some tweaks added in 2018 brought in a more efficient 1.5 EcoBlue diesel engine, an enhanced outside appearance and some interior tech copied from the manufacturer's passenger cars.

The Transit Connect is used in many different environments, from taxi work to postal delivery (in Canada). What's more, the sheer range of variants on offer means you should easily be able to find a model to suit what you need.

What's its spec?

With just one roof height but two lengths, L1 and L2, all models offer a sturdy build quality. There's a nearside sliding door plus barn doors at the back. Additionally, there are three trim levels, Base, Trend and Limited, and the same number of power outputs.

Most models are powered by a 1.5-litre diesel engine while options include an automatic gearbox.

Choose from five or seven seats in your Ford Transit Connect van. Equally, there's plenty of headroom and on-board storage, plus a dual passenger seat choice.

What's it like to drive?

You can look forward to responsive, accurate handling and weighted steering, making for the very comfortable drive that people have come to expect across the Transit range. (Prepare for a car-like driving experience.) Meanwhile, suspension performs well whether or not you're driving with a full load.

What about load capacity?

The entry-level L1 model has a load volume of 2.9 cubic metres plus payloads of up to 718kg depending on your choice of gearbox and engine combo. Meanwhile, the bigger L2 version increases load length while providing a load volume of 3.6 cubic metres.

Summing up

Probably rightfully described as a 'small van with big ideas', with this range you get a great drive, value, choice and a strong score when it comes to payload ratings. Some of the features are optional (i.e. paid-for) extras, but the Ford Transit Connect remains a popular, competitive and practical choice.

At Vansdirect, we're an award-winning van leasing broker that has been offering great deals for more than two decades. We have a great choice of vans in stock, including Ford Transit Connect models, along with numerous great-value finance deals. Get in touch today to discuss what your business fleet needs.