The Ford Transit Connect II Double Cab-in-Van L1 1.6 TDCi (95 hp) represents a significant offering in the compact commercial vehicle segment, particularly in European and, to a lesser extent, North American markets. Produced from 2013 to 2016, this variant occupied the entry-level position within the second-generation Transit Connect lineup, designed for businesses and families needing a versatile and economical vehicle. Built on the Ford C2 platform (shared with the Focus), the Transit Connect aimed to bridge the gap between larger vans and passenger cars, offering a unique blend of practicality and fuel efficiency. This specific configuration, with its 1.6-liter turbodiesel engine and five-speed manual transmission, was geared towards maximizing fuel economy and providing a cost-effective solution for urban delivery and light commercial applications.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Transit Connect |
| Generation | Transit Connect II Double Cab-in-Van L1 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 TDCi (95 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 4.3-4.5 l/100 km (54.7 – 52.3 US mpg, 65.7 – 62.8 UK mpg, 23.3 – 22.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 4.8-4.9 l/100 km (49 – 48 US mpg, 58.9 – 57.6 UK mpg, 20.8 – 20.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 124-128 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 15.8 kg/Hp, 63.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.5 kg/Nm, 152.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 95 Hp @ 3600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 60.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 1500-2000 rpm (169.64 lb.-ft. @ 1500-2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Duratorq / TZGA, TZGB |
| 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 | 1505-1509 kg (3317.96 – 3326.78 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2230 kg (4916.31 lbs.) |
| Max load | 721-725 kg (1589.53 – 1598.35 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1200 l (42.38 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2200 l (77.69 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4418 mm (173.94 in.) |
| Width | 1835 mm (72.24 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2137 mm (84.13 in.) |
| Height | 1836 mm (72.28 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2662 mm (104.8 in.) |
| Front track | 1568 mm (61.73 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1584 mm (62.36 in.) |
| Front overhang | 878 mm (34.57 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 878 mm (34.57 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 154 mm (6.06 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.7 m (38.39 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| 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, 320×25 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 280×11 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 1.6-liter Duratorq TDCi engine, specifically the TZGA or TZGB engine code depending on the exact production date and market. This engine is a four-cylinder, inline diesel utilizing a turbocharger with intercooling to boost power and efficiency. The Duratorq engine family was known for its robust construction and relatively simple design, contributing to its longevity. Fuel is delivered via a common-rail direct injection system, allowing for precise fuel metering and optimized combustion. The engine features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. The 95 horsepower output is achieved at 3600 rpm, while peak torque of 230 Nm (169.64 lb-ft) is available from 1500-2000 rpm. This broad torque curve is characteristic of diesel engines and provides good low-end pulling power. The engine is paired with a five-speed manual transmission, chosen for its simplicity and contribution to fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 TDCi 95 hp engine, coupled with the five-speed manual transmission, delivers a driving experience focused on practicality and economy rather than outright performance. Acceleration is modest, with a 0-60 mph time estimated around 13-14 seconds. However, the engine’s strong low-end torque makes it well-suited for urban driving and carrying loads. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine operates at relatively low rpm at highway speeds. Compared to higher-output versions of the Transit Connect (like those with the 1.6-liter engine in a higher state of tune or the 1.0 EcoBoost petrol engine), this variant feels noticeably slower, especially when fully loaded. However, it offers a more relaxed driving experience and significantly better fuel economy. The manual transmission provides good control, but the shift quality can feel somewhat notchy compared to more refined gearboxes.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 TDCi 95 hp Transit Connect L1 Double Cab-in-Van typically came with a fairly basic level of equipment, reflecting its position as the entry-level model. Standard features generally included power steering, ABS, driver and passenger airbags, and a basic audio system. The “Double Cab-in-Van” configuration offered seating for five passengers, with a rear bench seat behind the front seats and a dedicated cargo area. Interior upholstery was typically durable cloth. Optional extras included air conditioning, electric windows, a trip computer, and upgraded audio systems. 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 decent handling. The rear suspension employs a torsion beam setup, which is a cost-effective and space-efficient solution. The front brakes are ventilated discs measuring 320x25mm, while the rear brakes are solid discs measuring 280x11mm. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking. The relatively lightweight nature of the vehicle contributes to its manageable handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.6 TDCi 95 hp Transit Connect was generally well-received by critics as a practical and economical choice for businesses and families. Its fuel efficiency was a major selling point, and its compact size made it easy to maneuver in urban environments. Compared to other trims in the lineup, this variant offered the lowest purchase price but sacrificed some performance. The 1.0 EcoBoost petrol engine offered a more refined driving experience, while higher-powered diesel versions provided greater load-carrying capacity. However, the 1.6 TDCi struck a good balance between cost, economy, and usability.
Legacy
The Duratorq 1.6 TDCi engine, in this configuration, has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain. While not without its potential issues (such as diesel particulate filter clogging and occasional turbocharger problems), it is generally considered a durable engine when properly maintained. In the used car market, the 1.6 TDCi Transit Connect represents a good value proposition, offering a practical and economical vehicle at an affordable price. Its simplicity and relatively low running costs make it an attractive option for those seeking a versatile commercial vehicle or family van.
