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 120 horsepower automatic variant occupied a middle ground within the Transit Connect lineup, balancing fuel efficiency with reasonable performance and convenience. Produced from 2018 through 2023, this version aimed to appeal to families and businesses seeking a versatile vehicle for both work and leisure. It was built on the Ford global C/B platform, also known as the 1HX0/A3 platform, shared with models like the Ford Focus.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Transit Connect |
| Generation | Transit Connect II (facelift 2018) Wagon L1 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 EcoBlue (120 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg, 47.1 UK mpg, 16.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg, 58.9 UK mpg, 20.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 5.2-5.3 l/100 km (45.2 – 44.4 US mpg, 54.3 – 53.3 UK mpg, 19.2 – 18.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 138-139 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-TEMP-EVAP-ISC |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.3 kg/Hp, 75.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.9 kg/Nm, 169 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 120 Hp |
| Power per litre | 80.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 270 Nm (199.14 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | ZTGA |
| 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 | 1598-1751 kg (3522.99 – 3860.29 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2350 kg (5180.86 lbs.) |
| Max load | 599-752 kg (1320.57 – 1657.88 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%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 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; 215/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 6.5J x 17 |
INTRODUCTION
The Ford Transit Connect II facelift, launched in 2018, brought updated styling, improved technology, and refined powertrains to Ford’s popular compact van and wagon. The Wagon L1 1.5 EcoBlue 120 PS Automatic variant was a key offering, designed to appeal to buyers needing a practical, efficient, and comfortable vehicle for family use or light commercial applications. The “L1” designation indicates the short wheelbase version. This model sat in the mid-range of the Transit Connect lineup, offering a balance between affordability and features compared to higher-powered or more extensively equipped trims.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Transit Connect L1 1.5 EcoBlue 120 PS Automatic lies Ford’s 1.5-liter turbocharged diesel engine, internally designated as the ZTGA. This engine is part of Ford’s EcoBlue family, known for its focus on fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. The engine utilizes a common-rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The engine features a single turbocharger with an intercooler to increase air density and improve power output. The valvetrain employs a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) configuration with four valves per cylinder, enhancing breathing and overall engine performance. Paired with this engine is a sophisticated 8-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and efficient gear changes. This transmission was chosen for its ability to optimize fuel economy and provide a comfortable driving experience, particularly in urban environments.
Driving Characteristics
The 120 horsepower and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque produced by the 1.5 EcoBlue engine, when coupled with the 8-speed automatic, provided adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration was not particularly brisk, but sufficient for merging onto highways and maintaining speed on inclines. The automatic transmission was programmed for fuel efficiency, meaning it would upshift quickly to conserve fuel. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the same engine, the automatic offered greater convenience, especially in stop-and-go traffic. However, the manual versions generally felt more responsive and offered slightly better fuel economy. Compared to higher-output versions of the Transit Connect, such as those with more powerful diesel engines, the 120 PS variant prioritized efficiency over outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Transit Connect L1 1.5 EcoBlue 120 PS Automatic typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and a driver information display. Safety features included ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels offered options like alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, rear parking sensors, a rearview camera, and upgraded interior upholstery. Interior materials were generally durable and practical, reflecting the vehicle’s commercial roots. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing ease of use.
Chassis & Braking
The Transit Connect L1 utilized an independent McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-dependent beam rear suspension. This setup provided a reasonable balance between ride comfort and handling. The front suspension incorporated a stabilizer bar to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing braking performance and stability, particularly on slippery surfaces. The steering system was an electric power-assisted rack and pinion setup, providing light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Transit Connect L1 1.5 EcoBlue 120 PS Automatic was generally well-received by critics as a practical and efficient vehicle. Its fuel economy was a major selling point, particularly in Europe where diesel engines were more prevalent. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel strained when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to gasoline-powered alternatives, the diesel engine offered significantly better fuel economy. Compared to other compact vans and wagons in its class, the Transit Connect offered a competitive level of space, practicality, and value. Reliability reports were generally positive, with the 1.5 EcoBlue engine proving to be a relatively robust unit.
Legacy
The Ford Transit Connect II, including the 1.5 EcoBlue 120 PS Automatic variant, has established a reputation as a reliable and versatile vehicle. On the used car market, these models continue to be popular choices for buyers seeking a practical and affordable van or wagon. The 1.5 EcoBlue engine, while not known for being exceptionally powerful, has proven to be durable and relatively easy to maintain. Regular servicing and adherence to Ford’s recommended maintenance schedule are crucial for ensuring long-term reliability. The availability of parts and qualified mechanics is generally good, making ownership relatively straightforward.
