The Ford Transit Connect II Double Cab-in-Van L2 1.6 TDCi (95 hp) represents a practical and fuel-efficient offering within the second generation of Ford’s popular compact commercial vehicle. Produced from 2013 to 2016, this variant was specifically designed to cater to businesses and families needing a versatile vehicle capable of both cargo and passenger transport. Positioned as an entry-level option within the L2 (long wheelbase) Double Cab-in-Van range, it provided a balance between affordability and functionality, appealing to a broad customer base in the European and North American markets. The Transit Connect II, built on the Ford C2 platform, aimed to modernize the compact van segment with improved fuel economy, safety features, and a more car-like driving experience compared to its predecessor.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Transit Connect |
| Generation | Transit Connect II Double Cab-in-Van L2 |
| 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) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 128 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 16.4 kg/Hp, 61.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.8 kg/Nm, 148 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 | 1554-1559 kg (3425.98 – 3437.01 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2270 kg (5004.49 lbs.) |
| Max load | 711-716 kg (1567.49 – 1578.51 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1600 l (56.5 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2800 l (98.88 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 | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4818 mm (189.69 in.) |
| Width | 1835 mm (72.24 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2137 mm (84.13 in.) |
| Height | 1839 mm (72.4 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3062 mm (120.55 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) | 165 mm (6.5 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.5 m (41.01 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 diesel engine, specifically the TZGA or TZGB engine code. This engine is a four-cylinder, inline configuration, utilizing a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power and efficiency, delivering 95 horsepower at 3600 rpm and 230 Nm (169.64 lb-ft) of torque between 1500-2000 rpm. The engine features a common rail direct fuel injection system, contributing to improved combustion and reduced emissions. The 16:1 compression ratio is typical for a diesel engine, optimizing the combustion process. This engine was known for its relatively simple design, making it reasonably reliable and straightforward to maintain. The five-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing adequate gear ratios for everyday driving and load carrying.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 TDCi 95 hp engine, paired with the five-speed manual transmission, offered a practical but not particularly sporty driving experience. Acceleration was adequate for urban and highway driving when unladen, but performance diminished noticeably when carrying a full load or navigating steep inclines. The engine’s peak torque, available from 1500 rpm, provided reasonable pulling power for a vehicle of this type. The gear ratios were spaced to prioritize fuel economy over outright performance. Compared to higher-output versions of the Transit Connect, such as those equipped with the 1.6-liter engine in a higher state of tune or the 1.0-liter EcoBoost petrol engine, this variant felt less responsive. However, it offered a more economical and potentially more durable powertrain, particularly suited for high-mileage applications.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Double Cab-in-Van L2 1.6 TDCi (95 hp) typically came with a base level of equipment, focusing on functionality and practicality. Standard features generally included power steering, ABS brakes, a driver’s airbag, and basic steel wheels. The interior was typically trimmed with durable, easy-to-clean materials. The double cab configuration provided seating for up to five occupants, with a flexible seating arrangement allowing for increased cargo space when needed. Optional extras included air conditioning, a radio/CD player, electric windows, and upgraded interior trim. Higher trim levels, if selected, added features like alloy wheels, body-colored bumpers, and more sophisticated infotainment systems.
Chassis & Braking
The Transit Connect II utilized an independent McPherson strut front suspension with a coil spring and anti-roll bar, providing a comfortable ride and predictable handling. The rear suspension employed a coil spring and torsion beam setup, balancing ride quality with load-carrying capacity. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs on the front wheels (320x25mm) and solid discs on the rear wheels (280x11mm). ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The suspension was tuned to prioritize stability and comfort when carrying loads, rather than offering a particularly sporty driving experience.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Ford Transit Connect II Double Cab-in-Van L2 1.6 TDCi (95 hp) was generally well-received as a practical and economical workhorse. Critics praised its fuel efficiency, versatile interior, and competitive pricing. However, some reviewers noted that the 95 hp engine could feel underpowered when fully loaded. Compared to other trims in the lineup, this variant offered the most affordable entry point, making it attractive to budget-conscious buyers. The 1.6 TDCi engine offered better fuel economy than the petrol options, but lacked the outright performance of the higher-powered diesel variants. Its reliability was generally considered good, although regular maintenance was essential to ensure longevity.
Legacy
The 1.6 TDCi Duratorq engine, in its various iterations, proved to be a relatively durable and reliable powertrain. The Transit Connect II, as a whole, established itself as a popular choice in the compact commercial vehicle segment. In the used car market, the 1.6 TDCi (95 hp) variant remains a viable option for those seeking an affordable and fuel-efficient van. However, potential buyers should be aware of the importance of regular maintenance, including oil changes and timing belt replacements, to ensure continued reliability. The simplicity of the engine design makes it relatively easy and inexpensive to repair, contributing to its ongoing appeal in the used vehicle market.
