Courtesy of Ford
How could you not love the new 2014 Ford Transit Connect? It’s cute, contemporary and immensely versatile. This vehicle could easily be substituted for most minivans and can be configured in a myriad of ways. The possibilities are almost endless. Outside of the pickup truck, there isn’t a vehicle for sale that can be configured in as many variations as the Transit Connect. Unfortunately, Ford’s configurator doesn’t do the best job of explaining all of the options. Here is a brief overview:
First of all, it’s important to note that there are two types of vehicles: the Van and the Wagon. Those names are similar and in everyday parlance probably interchangeable. I think of the Van as a “Commercial” Van as opposed to a “Mini” Van. Ford doesn’t go to great lengths to explain what differentiates these models. Adding to the confusion is the fact that Ford offers both Van and Wagon to commercial and non-commercial customers.
The main difference between Van and Wagon seems to be the overall size and cargo/seating capacity. I use the term “seem” because that’s what the casual customer might surmise. However, that is technically incorrect because both Van and Wagon can be had as either short or long wheelbase models.
Perhaps, instead of focusing on what differentiates the various models, it is more productive to approach this vehicle more holistically: it can be whatever you want it to be.
Ford does not like to use the term minivan in describing it. In fact, it has a marketing campaign centered on the fact that it is the “#unminivan”. What makes it unlike a minivan is that it is slightly smaller – again, depending on which model you get – and that it is aimed at a different audience. While it can carry up to seven passengers, it can also be outfitted without a third row or without a second row. It can be used to haul plenty of cargo, ideal for small businesses such as electricians and plumbers, but also for families with pets or those who need to haul lumber or bicycles or just about anything else you can think of.
Trim levels follow the standard Ford approach of XL, XLT and Titanium, with Titanium being reserved for the wagon only. The price range to accommodate all this flexibility is rather large as well, spanning from a starting price of $23,000 for an XL Van to $30,000 for a Wagon in Titanium trim, before options.
There are only two engines to chose from: a 2.5 liter base four cylinder and an optional 1.6 liter EcoBoost four. Power output is very similar between the two engines (169 hp vs. 178 hp and 171 lb.-ft. of torque compared to 184 lb.-ft.). The EcoBoost engine is optional, which is consistent with Ford’s approach across other models. What is also consistent is the seeming lack of substantial fuel economy gains by choosing the EcoBoost model. Not having driven either, I can’t speak to the different driving characteristics.
Upholstery could be vinyl, cloth or leather. The rear can either come with a hatchback lid or twin doors. The interior space can be outfitted with commercial shelving units or what Ford calls “aircraft-style” console, for the kids to store their toys.
With so many options there are bound to be some oddities. One of them includes the lack of a diesel engine, which commercial customers would appreciate as an option, and a manual transmission; both are available in other markets. The final oddity in this maze is that the most expensive model, the long wheel base wagon, including the Titanium, cannot be had with the supposedly upgraded EcoBoost engine.
Regardless, the Ford Transit Connect can meet the needs of most families, including many of whom own minivans and pickup trucks.
Courtesy of Ford
Don’t let this picture mislead you: you can order a Van with glass in the sliding doors.
Courtesy of Ford
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