The Ford Transit Connect II, specifically the facelifted version introduced in 2018, represented a significant update to Ford’s compact commercial and passenger vehicle offering in Europe and, to a lesser extent, North America. The Wagon L1 1.5 EcoBlue 100 horsepower automatic variant, produced from 2018 through 2024, occupied a middle ground within the Transit Connect lineup, aimed at buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and ease of driving over outright performance. This model catered to families, small businesses, and individuals needing a versatile vehicle for both passenger and light cargo duties. It was positioned as a step up from the base engine options, offering a more refined driving experience, while remaining more affordable than the higher-powered diesel variants.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Transit Connect |
| Generation | Transit Connect II (facelift 2018) Wagon L1 |
| 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 | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg, 44.1 UK mpg, 15.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 168 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 5-6.3 l/100 km (47 – 37.3 US mpg, 56.5 – 44.8 UK mpg, 20 – 15.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 4.3-4.9 l/100 km (54.7 – 48 US mpg, 65.7 – 57.6 UK mpg, 23.3 – 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 4.6-5.5 l/100 km (51.1 – 42.8 US mpg, 61.4 – 51.4 UK mpg, 21.7 – 18.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 120-143 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-TEMP-EVAP-ISC |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 15.9 kg/Hp, 62.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.6 kg/Nm, 150.6 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 | 1594-1775 kg (3514.17 – 3913.21 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2340-2380 kg (5158.82 – 5247 lbs.) |
| Max load | 605-746 kg (1333.8 – 1644.65 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1000 l (35.31 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1800 l (63.57 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 | 1819-1847 mm (71.61 – 72.72 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) | 144-147 mm (5.67 – 5.79 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 | 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 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Transit Connect variant is the 1.5-liter EcoBlue turbocharged diesel engine, specifically the Z2GA engine code. This engine is part of Ford’s EcoBlue family, designed for improved efficiency and reduced emissions. The 1.5L engine utilizes a common-rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The engine features 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 the engine’s overall efficiency. Paired with this engine is an eight-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth gear changes and contributing to a more relaxed driving experience. This transmission was chosen to appeal to drivers who preferred the convenience of an automatic over a manual gearbox.
Driving Characteristics
The 100 horsepower and 240 Nm (177 lb-ft) of torque produced by the 1.5 EcoBlue engine, when coupled with the eight-speed automatic, resulted in adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration was sufficient for everyday driving, but overtaking maneuvers required planning. The automatic transmission was tuned for fuel economy, meaning gear changes were often subtle and prioritized efficiency over aggressive downshifts. Compared to the higher-output diesel versions, this variant felt noticeably less powerful, particularly when fully loaded. However, the automatic transmission smoothed out power delivery and made it easier to drive in urban environments than the manual transmission options. The gear ratios were optimized for cruising, allowing for comfortable highway driving with relatively low engine speeds.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Wagon L1 1.5 EcoBlue 100 hp Automatic typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and stability control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional, durable design. Optional extras included alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, rear parking sensors, and cruise control. Higher trim levels offered additional features such as upgraded interior trim, automatic headlights, and rain-sensing wipers.
Chassis & Braking
The Transit Connect II utilized an independent McPherson strut suspension setup at the front, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling. The rear suspension employed a semi-independent beam axle with a stabilizer bar, balancing ride comfort with stability. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The steering was electrically assisted, providing light and precise control.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally praised the Transit Connect II for its practicality, fuel efficiency, and comfortable ride. However, the 1.5 EcoBlue 100 hp automatic variant was often seen as a compromise. While it offered good fuel economy – around 36.8 US mpg combined – it lacked the punch of the more powerful diesel options. Compared to the 1.6-liter gasoline engine, the 1.5 EcoBlue offered significantly better fuel economy and torque, making it a more suitable choice for drivers covering long distances or frequently carrying loads. Reliability reports generally indicated that the 1.5 EcoBlue engine was a robust unit, although some owners reported issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) if the vehicle was primarily used for short trips.
Legacy
The Ford Transit Connect II, including the 1.5 EcoBlue 100 hp automatic variant, proved to be a popular choice in the compact van segment. On the used car market, these models continue to offer good value for money, particularly for buyers seeking a practical and fuel-efficient vehicle. The 1.5 EcoBlue engine has generally proven to be reliable, although regular maintenance, including DPF regeneration, is crucial. The combination of a comfortable ride, decent fuel economy, and a practical interior ensures that the Transit Connect II remains a viable option for those needing a versatile and affordable vehicle.
