The Ford Transit Connect II, specifically the facelifted version introduced in 2018, represented a significant update to Ford’s compact commercial and passenger vehicle lineup. The Double Cab-in-Van L1 configuration with the 1.5 EcoBlue 100 horsepower engine, produced from 2018 through 2024, was a popular choice in the European market, and increasingly in North America, offering a balance of practicality, fuel efficiency, and affordability. This variant occupied a mid-range position within the Transit Connect II lineup, slotting below the higher-powered diesel options and the gasoline-powered engines. It catered to businesses and families needing both passenger and cargo space, prioritizing economy over outright performance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Transit Connect |
| Generation | Transit Connect II (facelift 2018) Double Cab-in-Van L1 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 EcoBlue (100 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg, 44.8 UK mpg, 15.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at high speed (WLTP) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 154 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 4.8-5 l/100 km (49 – 47 US mpg, 58.9 – 56.5 UK mpg, 20.8 – 20 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) | 4.5-4.7 l/100 km (52.3 – 50 US mpg, 62.8 – 60.1 UK mpg, 22.2 – 21.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 118-123 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-TEMP-EVAP-ISC |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 15.9 kg/Hp, 62.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.6 kg/Nm, 150.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 100 Hp |
| Power per litre | 66.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 240 Nm (177.01 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Z2GA |
| Engine displacement | 1498 cm3 (91.41 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84.8 mm (3.34 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1592-1604 kg (3509.76 – 3536.21 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2345-2380 kg (5169.84 – 5247 lbs.) |
| Max load | 753-776 kg (1660.08 – 1710.79 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1200 l (42.38 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 17 l (4.49 US gal | 3.74 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1350 kg (2976.24 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4425 mm (174.21 in.) |
| Width | 1835 mm (72.24 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1967 mm (77.44 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2137 mm (84.13 in.) |
| Height | 1819-1850 mm (71.61 – 72.83 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2662 mm (104.8 in.) |
| Front track | 1568 mm (61.73 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1582 mm (62.28 in.) |
| Front overhang | 885 mm (34.84 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 878 mm (34.57 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 144-157 mm (5.67 – 6.18 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 | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Semi-dependent beam with stabilizer lateral stability |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16; 215/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
INTRODUCTION
The Ford Transit Connect II, launched in 2013 and receiving a significant facelift in 2018, is a compact panel van and five-passenger wagon built on the Ford global C/B platform, also known as the 1HX0/A3 platform. The 1.5 EcoBlue 100 horsepower variant, introduced with the 2018 refresh, was designed to meet increasingly stringent European emissions standards while providing a practical and economical option for commercial and family users. The “Double Cab-in-Van” L1 designation indicates a short wheelbase (L1) model with seating for five, combining passenger comfort with a useful cargo area. This configuration was particularly popular with small businesses and families needing flexible transportation solutions.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Transit Connect variant is the 1.5-liter EcoBlue turbocharged diesel engine, identified by the engine code Z2GA. This engine is part of Ford’s EcoBlue family, known for its focus on efficiency and reduced emissions. The 1498cc inline-four cylinder engine utilizes a common-rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. It features a single turbocharger with an intercooler to increase air density and improve power output. The engine employs a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, enhancing breathing and contributing to its relatively high power output for its size. The 100 horsepower is delivered at a moderate RPM, prioritizing torque for everyday drivability. The engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission, chosen for its efficiency and cost-effectiveness. While an automatic transmission was offered on other Transit Connect trims, it wasn’t available with this specific 1.5 EcoBlue 100 hp engine.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5 EcoBlue 100 hp engine in the Transit Connect II provides adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. With 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque, the engine offers sufficient pulling power for everyday driving and moderate loads. Acceleration is best described as steady, and highway merging requires planning. The six-speed manual transmission is well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, allowing drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to the higher-output diesel versions (like the 1.6L EcoBlue), this variant feels noticeably less powerful, particularly when fully loaded. However, it offers a more refined driving experience and better fuel economy. The gear ratios are tuned for efficiency, prioritizing lower engine speeds at cruising speeds. The relatively light weight of the Transit Connect helps mitigate the effects of the modest horsepower figure.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 EcoBlue 100 hp Double Cab-in-Van L1 typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and a driver’s airbag. Safety features such as ABS and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) were also standard. Interior upholstery was typically durable cloth. Optional extras included alloy wheels, a more advanced infotainment system with touchscreen display, rear parking sensors, and cruise control. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but generally, this variant represented a mid-range offering, providing a good balance of features and affordability.
Chassis & Braking
The Transit Connect II utilizes an independent McPherson strut front suspension with a coil spring and anti-roll bar, providing a comfortable ride and predictable handling. The rear suspension employs a semi-dependent beam axle with a stabilizer bar, offering a good compromise between ride comfort and load-carrying capacity. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The braking system is assisted by ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and ESC (Electronic Stability Control), enhancing safety and control. The steering is rack and pinion with electric power assistance, providing light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.5 EcoBlue 100 hp Transit Connect was generally well-received by critics as a practical and economical choice. Its fuel efficiency was a major selling point, particularly in Europe where diesel fuel is common and fuel costs are high. Compared to the higher-powered diesel variants, it offered lower running costs but sacrificed some performance. Against gasoline-powered competitors, it provided superior fuel economy and torque. Reliability reports suggest that the 1.5 EcoBlue engine is generally robust, although the diesel particulate filter (DPF) can be prone to clogging if the vehicle is primarily used for short trips.
Legacy
The Ford Transit Connect II, and specifically the 1.5 EcoBlue 100 hp variant, has established a solid reputation as a reliable and versatile workhorse. On the used car market, these models represent good value for money, offering a practical and economical transportation solution. The 1.5 EcoBlue engine, while not the most powerful, has proven to be relatively durable, and parts availability is generally good. The Transit Connect II remains a popular choice for small businesses, families, and individuals needing a compact and adaptable vehicle.
