The first generation of Ford’s Transit Connect was the vehicle that created a new class of small vans in North America; since its debut here, Nissan, Chevrolet, Ram and Mercedes-Benz have all brought their own little vans here, designed to appeal to anyone in need of a roomy vehicle with a small footprint and thrifty fuel consumption.
A second generation model introduced in 2014 brought more refinement and a sleeker design, which carry through to a 2017 model that gets a few trim updates. SYNC 3, with navigation and a 6.5-inch touchscreen, is an option now in XLT trim, and XL and XLT models can be fitted with optional roof rack and roof rails.
Ford brings the most style to this segment -- rivalled only by the upscale Mercedes-Benz Metris -- with a van that translates well into a passenger-focused model that wouldn’t look out of place in suburban driveways. Perhaps the only thing keeping Transit Connect from achieving serious sales success among non-commercial owners is pricing similar to that for small crossovers, which bring the benefit of available AWD.
The rest of the Transit Connect’s practical package remains the same. Base power is from a 2.5L four-cylinder engine that makes 169 hp and 171 lb-ft of torque, and it comes matched with a six-speed automatic transmission. It’s a combination that earns Natural Resources Canada fuel consumption ratings of 12.4/8.7 L/100 km (city/highway). Optional is a 1.6L EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder good for 178 hp and 184 lb-ft, also paired with a six-speed auto. Despite its extra power, NRCan’s testing shows it to be the more efficient choice, with ratings of 10.6/7.9 L/100 km.
Body-wise, the Transit Connect can be had as a cargo van or passenger wagon, with single or dual sliding side doors, and either a lift-up tailgate or symmetrical side-hinged cargo doors.
Standard kit in XL cargo vans includes 16-inch steel wheels with plastic covers, four-way manual front seats with fold-flat front passenger seat, no rear seats, air conditioning, AM/FM radio, 12-volt power point, front centre console, door pockets, full-width overhead storage shelf, keyless entry, vinyl flooring, tilt-and-telescopic steering, capless fuel filling, manual-adjusting side mirrors, variable-speed wipers, power front windows and passive anti-theft system.
XL passenger vans add a heavier-duty alternator, six-way manual driver’s seat, seven-person seating, rear-seat climate controls, rear 12-volt power point, cargo cover, rear wiper/washer and power second-row windows.
XLT cargo models get a 4.2-inch multi-function display, CD player, cruise control, visor-mounted vanity mirrors, driver information centre, MyKey, power-adjustable side mirrors and rear privacy glass.
XLT wagons gain SYNC 3 infotainment system, backup camera, front- and second-row carpeting, rear window defroster, sunglass holder, conversation mirror, second-row armrest, and body-colour door handles.
Finally, a top-trim Titanium model adds alloy wheels, heated front seats, leather seats with six-way power driver adjustment, second-row bucket seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, auto-dimming rearview mirror, leather-trimmed steering wheel, power-folding side mirrors and rain-sensing wipers.
Pricing ranges from $28,999 to $37,699.
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