The Ford Transit Connect II, specifically the facelifted version introduced in 2018, represented a significant update to Ford’s compact commercial and passenger van offering in the European and North American markets. This generation, built on the Ford C2 platform, aimed to provide a versatile and efficient solution for businesses and families alike. The L1 Panel Van configuration, powered by the 1.5 EcoBlue turbocharged diesel engine producing 120 horsepower, occupied a key position in the lineup, balancing affordability with reasonable performance and fuel economy. Production of this variant ran from 2018 through 2023.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Transit Connect |
| Generation | Transit Connect II (facelift 2018) Panel Van L1 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 EcoBlue (120 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 2-3 |
| Doors | 4-5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.2-5.3 l/100 km (45.2 – 44.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.3-4.6 l/100 km (54.7 – 51.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.6-5 l/100 km (51.1 – 47 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 121-130 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-TEMP-EVAP-ISC |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 120 Hp |
| Power per litre | 80.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 270 Nm (199.14 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | ZTGA |
| Engine displacement | 1498 cm3 (91.41 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84.8 mm (3.34 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1471-1527 kg (3243 – 3366.46 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2155-2385 kg (4750.96 – 5258.02 lbs.) |
| Max load | 684-858 kg (1507.96 – 1891.57 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 2600 l (91.82 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 3700 l (130.66 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank capacity | 17 l (4.49 US gal | 3.74 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load (braked) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (unbraked) | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4425 mm (174.21 in.) |
| Width | 1835 mm (72.24 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1967 mm (77.44 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2137 mm (84.13 in.) |
| Height | 1830 mm (72.05 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2662 mm (104.8 in.) |
| Front track | 1568 mm (61.73 in.) |
| Rear track | 1582 mm (62.28 in.) |
| Front overhang | 885 mm (34.84 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 878 mm (34.57 in.) |
| Ride height | 148 mm (5.83 in.) |
| Turning circle | 11.7 m (38.39 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Manual |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Semi-dependent beam with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16; 215/55 R16; 215/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 6.5J x 17 |
INTRODUCTION
The 2018-2023 Ford Transit Connect L1 Panel Van, equipped with the 1.5 EcoBlue 120 horsepower engine and a manual transmission, was a popular choice for small businesses and tradespeople. Positioned as an entry-to-mid-range offering, it provided a practical and economical solution for urban deliveries and service applications. The “L1” designation indicates the short wheelbase version, making it particularly maneuverable in congested areas. This facelift brought updated styling, improved safety features, and refinements to the EcoBlue engine for enhanced efficiency and reduced emissions.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Transit Connect variant is the 1.5-liter EcoBlue turbocharged diesel engine, identified by the engine code ZTGA. This engine is part of Ford’s EcoBlue family, designed to deliver improved fuel efficiency and reduced NOx emissions. It features a common-rail direct fuel injection system, operating at pressures up to 2,000 bar, for precise fuel delivery and optimized combustion. The engine utilizes a single turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and torque. The valvetrain employs a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) configuration with four valves per cylinder, enhancing breathing and overall engine performance. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, offering a balance between fuel economy and driver control.
Driving Characteristics
The 120 horsepower and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque provided by the 1.5 EcoBlue engine offered adequate performance for typical commercial applications. While not particularly sporty, the engine delivered sufficient power for city driving and highway cruising, even when moderately loaded. The manual transmission allowed for precise gear selection and contributed to improved fuel economy. Compared to higher-output versions of the Transit Connect, such as those with more powerful diesel engines, this variant prioritized efficiency over outright speed. The gear ratios were tuned for maximizing fuel economy and providing usable torque at lower engine speeds. The unladen ride quality could be firm, particularly on rough roads, but the suspension was generally capable of handling moderate loads without excessive body roll.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Transit Connect L1 1.5 EcoBlue 120 typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, power windows, and central locking. Safety equipment included ABS, electronic stability control, and driver and passenger airbags. Higher trim levels offered options such as a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, rear parking sensors, cruise control, and upgraded interior trim. The interior was functional and durable, designed for commercial use, with hard-wearing plastics and easy-to-clean surfaces. The van’s cargo area was a key selling point, offering a generous 2600-3700 liters of space depending on the seating configuration.
Chassis & Braking
The Transit Connect L1 featured a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a semi-dependent beam axle with a stabilizer bar at the rear. This suspension setup provided a reasonable balance between ride comfort and handling. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight. The electric power steering offered light and precise steering feel, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Ford Transit Connect L1 1.5 EcoBlue 120 was generally well-received by critics and customers alike. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, practicality, and competitive pricing. Compared to other compact vans in its class, such as the Volkswagen Caddy and the Citroën Berlingo, the Transit Connect offered a compelling combination of features and value. The 1.5 EcoBlue engine was noted for its refinement and low emissions. However, some reviewers found the interior to be somewhat basic compared to some of its rivals. Fuel economy figures consistently demonstrated the van’s efficiency, making it an attractive option for businesses looking to minimize operating costs.
Legacy
The Ford Transit Connect II, particularly the 1.5 EcoBlue variants, has proven to be a reliable and durable workhorse. The EcoBlue engine, while relatively modern, has demonstrated good long-term reliability, with few widespread issues reported. On the used car market, these vans continue to be popular choices for small businesses and tradespeople, offering a cost-effective and practical solution for commercial transportation. Regular maintenance, including timely oil changes and filter replacements, is crucial for ensuring the longevity of the engine and transmission. The Transit Connect’s versatility and fuel efficiency have cemented its place as a popular choice in the compact van segment.
