Ford_Transit_Connect_Review

Excellent access to the load area through wide-opening rear doors and a sliding side door

The controls are well designed with a pleasing chunkiness. A stubby gear lever makes ratio changes crisp, and the rake-and-reach adjustable steering wheel feels particularly good to handle.

Standard equipment levels are impressive. The Connect has a DAB radio with USB and Bluetooth connectivity. Radio controls are steering-wheel mounted. There’s also a trip computer.

Ford_Transit_Connect_review

The interior is just like a Kuga or a C-Max – and very well equipped

The glove box is lockable, but the downside, the storage could be better. There’s an cab-width overhead storage shelf, and door pockets, plus two cup holders. But I couldn’t find any neat place to stash a mobile phone.

The dual passenger seat is on the narrow side for the centre passenger. It might do for a short journey at a pinch, but it’ll be cramped for two grown men. The centre seat folds to double as a twin cup holders and small ‘desk’, which is more practical.

For the driver, eight-way adjustment of the driver’s seat makes it easy to find a comfortable driving position and the visibility is good. The door mirrors, which are heated as standard, provide a great view rearward. I found the optional rear-view camera and parking aid (a £300 extra) especially effective.

Out on the road, the Connect feels solid and settled. It rides well and handles with precision. ABS, EBD and ESC are all standard. The ESC system provides Trailer Sway Assist, Hill Start Assist and Load Adaptive Control.

The 1.0 six-speed Connect Trend Ecoboost model is the first Ford van available with a petrol engine. It produces 100hp and is pleasingly quick.

The six-speed box works well, and judicious use of the ratios should help this model achieve a combined fuel consumption figure of 50.4mpg, with CO2 emissions at 129g/km.

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