The Ford Grand Tourneo Connect II, specifically the facelifted version introduced in 2018, represents Ford’s entry into the compact people carrier segment. This variant, equipped with the 1.5 EcoBlue turbocharged diesel engine producing 120 horsepower and paired with a six-speed manual transmission, was offered with seven seats and aimed at families and those requiring flexible passenger and cargo space. Production of this configuration ran from 2018 through 2020. The Grand Tourneo Connect II, built upon the Ford global B-platform, served as a practical and efficient transportation solution primarily in the European market, though limited numbers were also sold in other regions. This particular 1.5 EcoBlue 120 hp model occupied a mid-range position within the Tourneo Connect lineup, offering a balance between fuel economy, performance, and price.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Tourneo Connect |
| Generation | Grand Tourneo Connect II (facelift 2018) |
| Type | 1.5 EcoBlue (120 Hp) S&S 7 Seat |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.9-5.0 l/100 km (48-47 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.5-4.6 l/100 km (52.3-51.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.7-4.8 l/100 km (50-49 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 122-124 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12 sec |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 d-TEMP |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 3600 rpm |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (199.14 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | ZTGA |
| Engine displacement | 1499 cm3 (91.47 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| 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 | 1691-1877 kg (3728.02 – 4138.08 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2300-2445 kg (5070.63 – 5390.3 lbs.) |
| Max load | 568-609 kg (1252.23 – 1342.62 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 322 l (11.37 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2620 l (92.52 cu. ft.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1270-1438 kg (2799.87 – 3170.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4825 mm (189.96 in.) |
| Width | 1835 mm (72.24 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1966 mm (77.4 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2137 mm (84.13 in.) |
| Height | 1847 mm (72.72 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3062 mm (120.55 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.2 m (40.03 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 |
| Assisting systems | ABS |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Grand Tourneo Connect variant is the 1.5 EcoBlue ZTGA engine. This engine is a four-cylinder, inline diesel utilizing a common-rail direct injection system and a turbocharger with intercooling. The 1.5 EcoBlue family was designed to replace Ford’s older 1.6-liter EcoBoost diesel engines, offering improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. The engine features two valves per cylinder and is known for its relatively quiet operation compared to some older diesel designs. The 120 horsepower output is achieved at 3600 rpm, while peak torque of 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) is available from 1750 to 2500 rpm, providing a useful amount of pulling power for a vehicle of this type. The six-speed manual transmission offers a good balance between fuel economy and drivability. Gear ratios are tuned for maximizing fuel efficiency while still providing adequate acceleration. The inclusion of a Start & Stop system further contributes to fuel savings in urban driving conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5 EcoBlue 120 hp engine, when paired with the six-speed manual transmission, provides adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 12.6 seconds, which is typical for a vehicle in this class. While not particularly sporty, the engine delivers sufficient torque for comfortable highway cruising and overtaking maneuvers. The manual transmission allows for greater driver control compared to an automatic, and the well-chosen gear ratios help to keep the engine within its optimal power band. Compared to the higher-output versions of the 1.5 EcoBlue, this variant feels less strained during acceleration, but it also lacks the same level of outright performance. The relatively low weight of the Grand Tourneo Connect helps to mitigate the effects of the modest horsepower output.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 EcoBlue 120 hp model typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels offered additional features such as alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, rear parking sensors, and cruise control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials available. The seven-seat configuration provided flexibility for families, with the rear seats capable of being folded flat to create a larger cargo area.
Chassis & Braking
The Grand Tourneo Connect II utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent beam rear suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, although it is not as refined as more sophisticated independent rear suspension systems. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are discs, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The steering is a rack and pinion system, offering precise and responsive handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Ford Grand Tourneo Connect II 1.5 EcoBlue 120 hp was generally well-received by critics as a practical and economical people carrier. It was praised for its spacious interior, flexible seating configuration, and fuel-efficient engine. Compared to other trims in the lineup, this variant offered a good balance between price and performance. The higher-output versions of the 1.5 EcoBlue provided more power but came at a higher cost. The 1.0 EcoBoost petrol engine offered lower upfront cost but significantly less torque and higher fuel consumption. Fuel economy figures of around 4.7-4.8 l/100 km (50-49 US mpg) were competitive for its class.
Legacy
The 1.5 EcoBlue engine has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain, although, like any diesel engine, it is susceptible to issues related to the diesel particulate filter (DPF) if not properly maintained. Regular servicing and the use of high-quality diesel fuel are essential for ensuring long-term reliability. On the used car market, the Grand Tourneo Connect II 1.5 EcoBlue 120 hp represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a practical and economical people carrier. Its spacious interior, fuel efficiency, and relatively low running costs make it an attractive option for families and those requiring a versatile vehicle.
