While the 2013 Transit Connect only offered one engine, there are two brand new engines available for 2014. The base engine is a 2.5L 4-clyinder, while an optional 1.6L turbocharged engine is also available. Both engines are mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. Equipped with the 1.6L turbo, the Transit Connect is capable of up to 30 mpg on the highway, excellent for such a utilitarian vehicle.
The Transit Connect is available in one of two basic body styles: van or wagon. While the wagon features large rear windows and rear seats for hauling passengers, the van variant's focus is more on utility and cargo hauling ability. Both variants can be had in both short and long wheelbase versions, with long wheelbase wagons available with third row seating. Other utility options include the choice between a rear liftgate or rear symmetrical opening doors.
Interior options are also plentiful and run anywhere from basic vinyl upholstery all the way up to panoramic sunroofs and complex in-car entertainment systems, complete with Bluetooth connectivity and a backup camera.
Vans are available in two trims, XL and XLT. The XL is the most basic variant, while the XLT includes a 4.2-inch screen, cruise control and a Smart Key entry system. Wagons are available in three trims, XL, XLT and Titanium. While XL and XLT trims echo their Van counterparts, the Titanium trim adds a considerable dose of luxury to the Transit Connect lineup. The Titanium edition's interior is upholstered in leather, while the stereo makes use of Ford's Sync system. A set of fog lamps sharpen up the exterior.
All Transit Connect vans feature front and side airbags for the first row as well as side curtain airbags, anti-lock brakes, traction control and a tire pressure monitoring system.
Versatility, Spaciousness, Good Fuel Economy, Low Load Floor, Easy To Drive
Ford has completely redesigned the Transit Connect for 2014. The new van is slightly bigger and much more versatile. In addition to brand new sheet metal from the ground up, the Transit Connect gets two new engine choices, both with excellent fuel economy. The interior has also been fully updated with new materials and new configuration options.
The Ford Transit Connect is a small commercial vehicle that makes the most of its size to haul up to 1600 lbs of cargo. Ideal as a fleet car or for small urban businesses, the Transit Connect starts at $22,000, about the price of a compact car. In addition to being inexpensive to buy, the Transit Connect promises to be inexpensive to run as well. Both engines available are only four cylinders, a stark contrast to competitors' V8 powered panel vans. The Transit Connects is extremely configurable as well, offering a choice of interior appointments and wheelbases, making it the right vehicle for a wide range of jobs.