The Ford Transit Connect II Panel Van L2 1.6 TDCi (75 hp) Start-Stop represents a key variant within the second generation of Ford’s popular compact commercial vehicle, produced from 2013 to 2016. Positioned as an entry-level offering in the L2 (long wheelbase) configuration, this model prioritized fuel efficiency and affordability for businesses and tradespeople. It served as a crucial part of Ford’s strategy to capture a significant share of the European and, increasingly, North American small van market. This particular version, with its 1.6-liter turbodiesel engine and five-speed manual transmission, was designed for urban delivery and light commercial duties where outright performance was less critical than running costs.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Transit Connect |
| Generation | Transit Connect II Panel Van L2 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 TDCi (75 Hp) Start-Stop |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 2-3 |
| Doors | 4-5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg, 65.7 UK mpg, 23.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg, 61.4 UK mpg, 21.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 119 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 18.8 kg/Hp, 53.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.4 kg/Nm, 156 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 75 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 48.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 220 Nm @ 1500 rpm (162.26 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Duratorq / UBGA |
| Engine displacement | 1560 cm3 (95.2 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.3 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| 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 | 7.3 l (7.71 US qt | 6.42 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1410-1447 kg (3108.52 – 3190.09 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2125 kg (4684.82 lbs.) |
| Max load | 678-715 kg (1494.73 – 1576.31 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 3220 l (113.71 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 4400 l (155.38 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 740 kg (1631.42 lbs.) |
| Length | 4818 mm (189.69 in.) |
| Width | 1835 mm (72.24 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2137 mm (84.13 in.) |
| Height | 1862 mm (73.31 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3062 mm (120.55 in.) |
| Front track | 1568 mm (61.73 in.) |
| Rear (Back) 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) | 159 mm (6.26 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.5 m (41.01 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type 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 Steering |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Transit Connect variant is the Ford Duratorq 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder turbodiesel engine, specifically the UBGA code. This engine is a member of the Duratorq family, known for its robust construction and relatively simple design. It utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at high pressure for efficient combustion. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, provides a boost in power and torque, despite the relatively small displacement. The engine features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain operating two valves per cylinder. The Start-Stop system, a key feature for reducing emissions and improving fuel economy, automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary (e.g., at traffic lights) and restarts it instantly when the driver depresses the clutch pedal. The engine is paired with a five-speed manual transmission, chosen for its simplicity and cost-effectiveness. This transmission features a conventional gear layout optimized for fuel efficiency rather than outright acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 75 hp output and 220 Nm (162 lb-ft) of torque deliver adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration is modest, and the van is best suited for city driving and moderate highway speeds. The five-speed manual transmission helps to keep the engine in its optimal power band, but requires frequent shifting when climbing hills or carrying a full load. Compared to the higher-output 1.6 TDCi variants (95 hp and 115 hp) or the 1.0 EcoBoost petrol engine, this version feels noticeably slower. However, the lower power output contributes to improved fuel economy. The gear ratios are tuned for economy, meaning the van isn’t particularly quick off the line, but maintains reasonable cruising speeds. The relatively low weight of the L2 Transit Connect helps to mitigate the effects of the modest power output.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 TDCi (75 hp) Start-Stop typically served as the base trim level for the Transit Connect L2. Standard equipment generally included power steering, ABS, a driver’s airbag, and basic steel wheels. The interior was functional and utilitarian, with durable plastic trim and cloth upholstery. Optional extras included air conditioning, a radio/CD player, electric windows, and upgraded security features. Higher trim levels added features like alloy wheels, body-colored bumpers, and more comfortable seating.
Chassis & Braking
The Transit Connect II utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension with a coil spring and anti-roll bar, providing a comfortable ride and predictable handling. The rear suspension employs a torsion beam setup, which is cost-effective and space-efficient. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort and load-carrying capacity rather than sporty handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.6 TDCi (75 hp) Start-Stop variant was well-received by businesses and fleet operators seeking a cost-effective and fuel-efficient commercial vehicle. Critics praised its low running costs and practicality, but noted its lack of outright performance. Compared to the higher-powered versions, this model offered a lower purchase price and better fuel economy, making it an attractive option for those prioritizing affordability. The 1.0 EcoBoost petrol engine offered a more refined driving experience but typically came at a higher price and with slightly lower fuel economy. Reliability was generally good, with the Duratorq engine proving to be durable and relatively trouble-free.
Legacy
The 1.6 TDCi (75 hp) Start-Stop powertrain has proven to be reasonably reliable in the long term. Common issues, when they arise, often relate to the turbocharger, fuel injectors, and the diesel particulate filter (DPF). On the used car market, these vans represent a good value proposition for businesses needing a practical and affordable workhorse. While not the fastest or most luxurious option, its fuel efficiency and low maintenance costs continue to make it a popular choice. The Transit Connect II, in general, established Ford as a major player in the European and North American small van segment, and this particular variant played a significant role in that success.
