The Ford Transit Connect II Panel Van L1 1.5 TDCi (75 Hp) Start-Stop represents a key variant within the second generation of Ford’s popular compact commercial vehicle, produced from 2015 to 2018. Positioned as an entry-level offering, this model aimed to provide a fuel-efficient and practical solution for businesses and tradespeople requiring a small van for urban deliveries and service applications. It was a significant model for Ford in the European market, where compact vans are highly sought after, and later gained traction in North America as a versatile cargo and passenger vehicle. This specific configuration, with its 1.5-liter diesel engine and five-speed manual transmission, offered a balance between affordability and functionality.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Transit Connect |
| Generation | Transit Connect II Panel Van L1 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 TDCi (75 Hp) Start-Stop |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 2-3 |
| Doors | 4-5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.5-4.8 l/100 km (52.3 – 49 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.1-4.3 l/100 km (57.4 – 54.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.3-4.4 l/100 km (54.7 – 53.5 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 111-115 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 18.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 75 Hp |
| Torque | 220 Nm @ 1750-2000 rpm (162.26 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Duratorq / XUGA |
| Engine displacement | 1499 cm3 (91.47 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 73.5 mm (2.89 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.3 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.2 l (6.55 US qt | 5.46 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1382-1443 kg (3046.79 – 3181.27 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2005-2215 kg (4420.27 – 4883.24 lbs.) |
| Max load | 623-772 kg (1373.48 – 1701.97 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 2630 l (92.88 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) |
| Permitted trailer load (braked) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (unbraked) | 725 kg (1598.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4418 mm (173.94 in.) |
| Width | 1835 mm (72.24 in.) |
| Width (including mirrors) | 2137 mm (84.13 in.) |
| Height | 1861 mm (73.27 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2662 mm (104.8 in.) |
| Front track | 1568 mm (61.73 in.) |
| Rear track | 1584-1585 mm (62.36 – 62.4 in.) |
| Front overhang | 878 mm (34.57 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 878 mm (34.57 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 152 mm (5.98 in.) |
| Turning circle | 11.7 m (38.39 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring, Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 300 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 280 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Transit Connect variant is the 1.5-liter Duratorq TDCi diesel engine, identified by the XUGA engine code. This engine is a four-cylinder, inline configuration, utilizing a turbocharger with intercooling to enhance power and efficiency. The engine employs a diesel common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the cylinders at high pressure for optimized combustion. The single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain operates two valves per cylinder. The Start-Stop system, a standard feature, automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary (e.g., at traffic lights) to reduce fuel consumption and emissions. Paired with this engine is a five-speed manual transmission, chosen for its simplicity and cost-effectiveness. This transmission provides a relatively direct driving experience, prioritizing fuel economy over rapid acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 75 horsepower output and 220 Nm (162 lb-ft) of torque delivered by the 1.5 TDCi engine provide adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. The van is best suited for urban and suburban driving, where its nimble size and fuel efficiency are advantageous. Acceleration is modest, and overtaking maneuvers require planning. The five-speed manual transmission offers a reasonable spread of gears, but the relatively low horsepower necessitates frequent downshifts when encountering hills or carrying a full load. Compared to higher-output versions of the Transit Connect, such as those equipped with the 1.6-liter EcoBoost gasoline engine, this diesel variant prioritizes fuel economy and low-end torque over outright speed. The manual transmission provides more driver engagement than the optional automatic, but requires more effort in stop-and-go traffic.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 TDCi (75 Hp) Start-Stop typically served as the base trim level for the Transit Connect II. Standard equipment generally included power steering, ABS brakes, a driver’s airbag, and basic steel wheels. The interior featured durable, utilitarian materials, with a focus on practicality rather than luxury. Upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard layout was functional and straightforward. Optional extras included air conditioning, a radio/CD player, electric windows, and upgraded trim materials. Higher trim levels added features like alloy wheels, a more sophisticated audio system, and additional safety equipment.
Chassis & Braking
The Transit Connect II utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a semi-independent torsion beam suspension at the rear. This setup provides a reasonable balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The relatively lightweight construction of the van contributes to its agility. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.5 TDCi (75 Hp) Start-Stop variant of the Transit Connect was generally well-received by critics as a practical and economical choice for businesses. Its fuel efficiency was a major selling point, particularly in Europe where diesel fuel is often more affordable than gasoline. Compared to the more powerful engine options, this variant offered a lower purchase price and reduced running costs. However, some reviewers noted its lack of power, especially when fully loaded or driving on hilly terrain. Against competitors like the Volkswagen Caddy and Citroën Berlingo, the Transit Connect offered a competitive combination of price, fuel economy, and cargo capacity.
Legacy
The 1.5 TDCi engine, while not known for being exceptionally powerful, has proven to be relatively reliable in the Transit Connect. With proper maintenance, these engines can accumulate high mileage. On the used car market, this variant represents an affordable entry point into Transit Connect ownership. Its fuel efficiency and practicality continue to make it a popular choice for small businesses and individuals seeking a versatile and economical van. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for diesel particulate filter (DPF) issues, particularly if the vehicle has been primarily used for short trips. Regular servicing and the use of quality diesel fuel are essential for maintaining the longevity of this powertrain.
