Ford Transit Connect: the rugged all-rounder

Ford Transit Connect: new diesel engine

Transit Connect road test Review: Mark Bursa

Ford Transit Connect LX 230 LWB 1.8TDCi 110PS

What is it?

Transit’s baby brother with its latest powerplant: a more powerful 110PS common-rail 1.8-litre turbodiesel. Our test van was the biggest and most powerful Connect, with long wheelbase and high roof. That gives it 3.4cu m of loadspace and a payload of 900kg – not bad for a van that was meant to replace the Courier!

What’s hot?

• It feels like a panel van in terms of build, rather than a car-derived van
• However, cab is roomy and comfortable, with a car-like driving position
• Lots of in-cab trays and storage areas come in handy
• Engine has plenty of power and low rev torque
• Handling and highway performance are excellent…
• …that torque is handy for overtaking or climbing hills
• Superb load access: wide-opening side doors on both sides…
• …and 250 degree twin rear doors that give unobstructed access
• High LX spec: electric mirrors/windows, mesh bulkhead, metallic paint

What’s not?

• Diesel engines are a little short on refinement
• There’s noticeable engine noise, especially when unladen
• There’s a lot of bonnet and cab in the overall length…
• …which perhaps restricts loadspace…
• …Connect offers 3.7cu m; but new rivals (Caddy Maxi) top that
• Size could be a problem – this a large vehicle for its class

What you need to Know

** Trade value of van if purchased after three years and 60,000 miles. (Powered by Deltapoint)

Business Van Manager Road Test Rating

Not long ago, Ford offered three genuine car-derived vans – Fiesta, Escort and Courier. Now there’s nothing between Fiesta and Transit Connect. That’s fine for Ford fans looking for a large, rugged vehicle – Connect isn’t far off the size of an original Transit. But you can’t help thinking that Ford is missing a trick: think Bipper and Kangoo compacts. Ford doesn’t offer a genuine car-derived van in a sector it once owned with Escort. This doesn’t distract from the excellence of the Transit Connect – just a little more noise damping and it will be the complete package.

Options include:Diesel Particulate Filter, £525; front passenger airbag, £150; traction control and rear disc brakes, £100; reverse parking sensor, £150; 250 degree rear cargo doors, £250; driver’s side sliding rear door, £150; full-height steel bulkhead, £100; air conditioning, £550; auxiliary power socket in load area, £50; heated rear windows and rear wash wipe (hinged rear doors), £150.