Ford Transit Connect, the most manageable van

Choices to make

Before you even get behind the wheel, you have to make a choice. The Transit Connect is available with two four-cylinder engine options, two trim levels and two wheelbase lengths.

The base version is equipped with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine combined with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This combination offers 162-horsepower and 144-pound-feet of torque. If you want more, you can opt for the optional 2.5-litre engine, which boosts horsepower to 169 and torque to 171 lb-ft. All of these variants have their power transmitted to the front wheels.

This power also allows the little Transit Connect to offer an impressive work capacity. It can tow up to 2,000 pounds if properly equipped with the Trailer Tow Package. This package adds trailer stabilization capability.

In a nutshell, the stabilization system detects if the trailer is moving sideways and acts, in conjunction with the engine torque, to stabilize it without driver intervention. This function is in addition to the technology of the AdvanceTrac system and the rollover protection system.

The Transit Connect can carry a payload of up to 1,570 pounds. Rear hatch doors or sliding side doors provide easy access to the cargo area.

Models to choose from

Beyond the engines, Transit Connect also requires other types of choices. It is offered with a short or long chassis with a wheelbase of 1,236 mm. In its longest version, it has a total capacity of 4.1 meters of storage in the cargo section once the passenger seat is folded down. In short, it can accommodate a full sheet of plywood flat and even stack them up to the maximum height of the cabin, 1,193 mm.

Need more passenger space? The 2022 Ford Transit Connect also comes in a Touring version, which can accommodate six passengers in a comfortable and spacious cockpit. It is even possible to add the option of a seventh passenger.

To offer some comfort, the Transit Connect has a dashboard with an ergonomic central console with physical controls for the air conditioning and the infotainment system. The latter, housed in a small center screen, houses the SYNC system and all Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Wireless charging for smartphones is optional. A wifi hotspot is also available.

Security on the menu

Safety is also a feature of the Ford Transit Connect. In addition to rollover controls, it has side curtains and cornering control assist. Forward collision warning and automated emergency braking are standard on the Ford Co-Pilot 360, as is a rearview camera.

Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, as well as lane departure warning and lane-keep-assist can be added to the optional safety package.

Maneuverable, fuel-efficient and versatile, the Ford Transit Connect is the perfect city companion, but it's not averse to a few rides on more open roads either. Perfect for delivery, it’s also a small vehicle that goes well with larger families who need space.