Ford Transit Connect

Overview: Is the Ford Transit Connect a Good Small Van?

The Ford Transit Connect is a compact van sold in the U.S. since the 2010 model year. Available in both Cargo Van and Passenger Van configurations, the Transit Connect has remained essentially unchanged since the introduction of the second generation for 2014. Despite its longevity, Ford has announced that the Transit Connect will be discontinued after the 2023 model year due to slowing sales, following a similar trend seen with other small vans like the Nissan NV200, RAM ProMaster City, and Mercedes-Benz Metris.

Note: Equipment, features, and trims can vary by model year. Always confirm these details when looking for used Ford Transit Connect vans for sale.

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Related: The Ford Transit Van Years To Avoid

Key Features

The Ford Transit Connect offers:

• Compact van body style in Cargo Van and Passenger Van configurations
• Front-wheel drive
• Inline-four-cylinder engine options
• Automatic transmission

Trims

The Ford Transit Connect is available in two main trims: XL and XLT. The XL serves as the base model, offering essential features and amenities, while the XLT adds more comfort and convenience options. Both trims are available in Cargo Van and Passenger Van configurations, with the latter offering seating for up to seven passengers. An upgraded Passenger Van, sold as the Platinum edition, was available in later years.

Comfort, Technology & Cargo

The Ford Transit Connect's interior prioritizes functionality over luxury, with durable materials and a straightforward layout. The Cargo Van provides an uninterrupted cargo area, while the Ford Transit Connect Passenger Van offers configurable seating and a more refined cabin. Available technology features (depending on the year) include a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a rearview camera, and a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. Cargo capacity is a strong suit for the Transit Connect, with the Cargo Van offering up to 127.4 cubic feet of storage space behind the front seats.

How It Drives

Ford has shuffled several four-cylinder powerplants through the Transit Connect’s engine bay. Various inline-four engines, one with a turbocharger, offered 136-169 horsepower, depending on the year. The Transit Connect's compact dimensions and responsive steering make it easy to maneuver in tight urban environments, while its suspension provides a relatively comfortable ride for a commercial vehicle. Though not designed for heavy hauling, the Transit Connect offers a commercial van payload capacity of up to 1,570 pounds, depending on the configuration.

Safety

The Ford Transit Connect has mixed testing results from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Overall and specific safety test scores range from two to five (out of five), depending on the model year and evaluation type.

Reviews

Consumer reviews via Kelley Blue Book are mediocre for the first-generation Ford Transit Connect, with scores averaging 3.7/5. Owners expressed concerns about quality, reliability, and comfort. The ratings improved significantly to 4.2 for the second generation, as reliability, quality, and value became the top traits for this compact van.

Learn More: Ford Transit Ground Clearance: What To Know

FAQs

Why is Ford discontinuing the Transit Connect Van?

Ford discontinued the Transit Connect after the 2023 model year due to declining sales in the compact van segment. This decision follows a similar trend with other small vans, such as the Nissan NV200, RAM ProMaster City, and the Mercedes-Benz Metris, which have also been discontinued recently.

What is the life expectancy of a Ford Transit Connect?

A Ford Transit Connect can last well over 200,000 miles with proper maintenance and care. The van's simple design and proven powertrain components contribute to its longevity, making it a reliable choice for businesses and individuals.

What is the most common problem with a Ford Transit Connect?

Some of the most reported issues with the Ford Transit Connect include problems with the transmission, particularly hard shifting or delayed engagement, and premature wear of suspension components. However, these issues are not widespread and can often be addressed through regular maintenance and timely repairs.

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