The Ford Transit Connect II, specifically the L2 Panel Van configuration with the 1.5 EcoBlue 100 horsepower automatic transmission, represents a significant offering in the compact commercial van segment for the North American market. Introduced with the facelift in 2018 and continuing through the 2024 model year, this variant aimed to balance fuel efficiency, practicality, and affordability for businesses and tradespeople. Positioned as a mid-range option within the Transit Connect lineup, it slotted between the base 1.0L EcoBoost engine and the more powerful diesel options available in other markets. The L2 designation indicates the long wheelbase version, providing increased cargo capacity compared to the standard length model. This generation of the Transit Connect (based on the Ford Focus platform) was primarily designed for European markets, but adapted for North American needs, focusing on urban delivery and service applications.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Transit Connect |
| Generation | Transit Connect II (facelift 2018) Panel Van L2 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 EcoBlue (100 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 2-3 |
| Doors | 4-5 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 6.6-7 l/100 km (35.6 – 33.6 US mpg, 42.8 – 40.4 UK mpg, 15.2 – 14.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at high speed (WLTP) | 5.1-5.4 l/100 km (46.1 – 43.6 US mpg, 55.4 – 52.3 UK mpg, 19.6 – 18.5 km/l) |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 6-6.3 l/100 km (39.2 – 37.3 US mpg, 47.1 – 44.8 UK mpg, 16.7 – 15.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 156-164 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-TEMP-EVAP-ISC |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 15.7 kg/Hp, 63.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.5 kg/Nm, 152.9 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 | 1570-1700 kg (3461.26 – 3747.86 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2260-2501 kg (4982.45 – 5513.76 lbs.) |
| Max load | 690-801 kg (1521.19 – 1765.9 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 3200 l (113.01 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) |
| AdBlue tank | 17 l (4.49 US gal | 3.74 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1390 kg (3064.43 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4825 mm (189.96 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 | 1847 mm (72.72 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3062 mm (120.55 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) | 155 mm (6.1 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 | 8 gears, automatic 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; 215/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 6.5J x 17 |
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, designed for improved efficiency and reduced emissions. It features a common-rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the cylinders at high pressure for optimized combustion. The engine utilizes a single turbocharger with an intercooler to increase air density and boost power output. The valvetrain employs a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) configuration with four valves per cylinder, enhancing breathing and contributing to improved performance. Paired with this engine is an 8-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth gear changes and contributing to fuel economy. This transmission was chosen to offer ease of use, particularly in urban driving conditions, a key application for the Transit Connect.
Driving Characteristics
The 100 horsepower and 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque produced by the 1.5 EcoBlue engine, when coupled with the 8-speed automatic, results in adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration is best described as steady, suitable for city driving and highway merging with a light load. The automatic transmission is tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning it prioritizes higher gears at lower speeds. This can sometimes result in a slight hesitation when requesting quick acceleration. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the same engine, the automatic offers less driver engagement but greater convenience. Higher-output diesel variants, available in European markets, provided significantly more power and torque, but at the expense of fuel economy. The gear ratios in the 8-speed automatic are well-spaced, helping to keep the engine within its optimal power band during typical driving scenarios.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 EcoBlue 100 hp Automatic typically came standard with features geared towards commercial use, including a basic audio system with Bluetooth connectivity, air conditioning, and power windows. Safety features such as ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags were standard. Interior upholstery was typically durable cloth. Optional extras included features like a rearview camera, parking sensors, upgraded infotainment systems with navigation, and various cargo area configurations. Trim levels varied depending on the specific market, but generally offered packages that added comfort and convenience features.
Chassis & Braking
The Transit Connect II utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and a semi-dependent beam axle with a stabilizer bar in the rear. This suspension setup provides a reasonable balance between ride comfort and handling. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. The ABS system helps to prevent wheel lockup during hard braking. The relatively lightweight construction of the Transit Connect contributes to its agility and ease of maneuverability in urban environments.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.5 EcoBlue Automatic variant of the Transit Connect was generally well-received by critics as a practical and fuel-efficient option for businesses. Its fuel economy figures of 39.2-37.3 US mpg combined were competitive within the compact van segment. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the power of some of its competitors, particularly when fully loaded. Compared to the gasoline-powered 1.0L EcoBoost engine, the diesel offered significantly better fuel economy and torque, making it a more suitable choice for heavier-duty applications. Reliability reports have been generally positive, with the 1.5 EcoBlue engine proving to be a durable and dependable unit.
Legacy
The Ford Transit Connect II, and specifically the 1.5 EcoBlue 100 hp Automatic variant, has established itself as a popular choice in the used commercial van market. Its combination of practicality, fuel efficiency, and relatively low running costs makes it an attractive option for small businesses and tradespeople. While newer generations of the Transit Connect have been introduced, the second generation remains a viable and affordable option for those seeking a reliable and versatile work van. The longevity of the 1.5 EcoBlue engine, coupled with the relatively simple design of the 8-speed automatic transmission, suggests that these vehicles should continue to provide years of dependable service with proper maintenance.
