The popularity of the Transit has increased substantially its introduction thanks to its versatility and size…

The 2014 Ford Transit Connect is a multi-purpose cargo van that could be a great addition to any size of business.

Looks:

The Transit Connect looks small, but with 3,670 litres of cargo volume and rear doors that open 180 degrees (optional 255 degrees) there is lots of room for people and luggage. The cargo van version is available with no side windows in the sliding side doors and privacy glass in the rear doors. You can also order it with no side or rear windows.

It also lends itself to becoming an office on wheels. Ford Work Solutions is a system that runs Windows CE 6.0 designed to access an office workstation computer remotely to download customer information or view a work order or delivery invoice. You can send and receive text messages.

The Navigation screen pinpoints your delivery locations and the system allows hands-free calling via the Bluetooth. The in-dash computer tracks your tools through a program called Tool Link, by De-Walt. Using a radio frequency identification tag attached to each tool you can scan them as you load them into the van and know exactly what is on board and what you left behind.

In The Cab:

The driver’s seat is manually adjustable (six-way) with built-in armrest while the passenger has a four-way manually adjustable seat. Just like most cargo vans of today, the cab has the features once reserved for cars an AM/FM radio with a bonus CD player and audio input jack. Available SYNC system to make hands free calls, rear view mirror backup camera, reverse sensing system, forward sensing system, and a 4.2-inch productivity screen that keeps you informed on fuel economy numbers as well as towing information.

When you open the split rear doors, you get a true sense of this van’s functionality. The cargo areas floor to ceiling height is 150 centimeters and the width is 121 cm between the wheel wells. The load length is 184 cm and additional access is offered via the dual sliding doors. The cargo payload is an incredible 726 kilograms, more than some full-size pickup trucks. Optional second row, three passengers, split folding 60/40 cloth bench seat, and optional third row two passenger seating.

Safety First:

Standard front and side air bags will keep you safe in the event of a collision. Four-wheel anti-lock brakes and a tire pressure-monitoring system are standard. For security, Ford has developed a locking latch shielded door lock system to help keep your contents safe.

Power:

This vehicle is powered by a Duratec 2.5 litre four cylinder, mated to a six speed select shift automatic transmission. It puts out 169 horsepower and 171 lb ft of torque. There is also a 1.6L EcoBoost I-4 engine available with 178 horsepower and 184 lb ft of torque.

Roadworthy:

While driving this Ford Transit Connect you feel like you’re driving a 2WD Ford Ranger. You’re able to manouevre around vehicles in tight parking lots and park in small parking spots, the only difference is you have a walk in cargo box on the back. This van would be perfect to convert into a special purpose van; it would be easy to add a wheel chair ramp or a lift without having to do too much modification.

Verdict:

All though this van has been available in the UK for many years, it has only been available in North American since 2011. The popularity of the Transit has increased substantially its introduction thanks to its versatility and size. It is here to stay.

Pump Frequency:

9.3 L / 6.6 L/100 km (city/highway) 1.6 Litre

9.5 L / 6.7 L/100 km (city/highway) 2.5 Litre

Warranty Support:

3 year/ 60,000 km basic

5 year/ 100,000 km power train

24-hour Roadside assistance 5 year/ 100,000 km

Sticker Price:

XL Van – $25,754

XLT Van – $17,014

XL Wagon – $27,374

XLT Wagon – $28,634

Titanium Wagon – $32,054

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Contact: ian [dot] harwood [at] drivewaybc [dot] ca