Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Transit Connect |
| Generation | Transit Connect II (facelift 2018) Wagon L2 |
| 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 | 5-7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg, 44.8 UK mpg, 15.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 144 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-TEMP-EVAP-ISC |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.9 kg/Hp, 71.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.2 kg/Nm, 161.4 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 | 1673-1746 kg (3688.33 – 3849.27 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2445 kg (5390.3 lbs.) |
| Max load | 699-772 kg (1541.03 – 1701.97 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 300 l (10.59 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) |
| AdBlue tank | 17 l (4.49 US gal | 3.74 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1495 kg (3295.91 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 | 1820-1847 mm (71.65 – 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) | 144 mm (5.67 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 |
The Ford Transit Connect II, launched in 2013 and facelifted in 2018, was a collaborative effort between Ford and Peugeot-Citroën, sharing a platform with the Citroën Berlingo and Peugeot Partner. The Wagon L2 (Long Wheelbase) version offered increased cargo and passenger space compared to the standard L1 model. The 1.5 EcoBlue 120 horsepower automatic variant was positioned as a practical and efficient choice for families or businesses needing a versatile vehicle. It bridged the gap between the more basic, lower-powered engines and the more expensive, higher-specification trims. This generation of Transit Connect was primarily sold in Europe, with limited availability in North America, where it was marketed more as a commercial vehicle.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Transit Connect variant is the 1.5-liter EcoBlue turbocharged diesel engine, designated with the engine code ZTGA. This engine is part of Ford’s EcoBlue family, known for its focus on fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. The 1.5 EcoBlue utilizes a common-rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the cylinders at 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 an eight-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth gear changes and contributing to improved fuel economy. This transmission was a significant upgrade from the earlier six-speed units, offering a wider gear ratio spread for better acceleration and cruising efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The 120 horsepower and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque provided by the 1.5 EcoBlue engine and eight-speed automatic transmission resulted in a competent, if not particularly sporty, driving experience. Acceleration was adequate for everyday driving, but the automatic transmission sometimes felt hesitant when needing quick bursts of power. Compared to the manual transmission versions, the automatic offered greater convenience, especially in urban environments. However, the manual versions generally provided slightly better fuel economy and a more engaging driving feel. The eight-speed automatic’s gear ratios were well-suited to maintaining efficient cruising speeds on highways, while still providing enough low-end torque for navigating city streets. The power delivery was relatively linear, making the vehicle predictable and easy to control.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 EcoBlue 120 hp Automatic typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a basic audio system with Bluetooth connectivity, and stability control. Higher trim levels, such as Trend or Limited, added features like alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, rear parking sensors, cruise control, and upgraded interior upholstery. Interior materials were generally durable and practical, reflecting the vehicle’s commercial roots. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, heated seats, and a rearview camera.
Chassis & Braking
The Transit Connect II utilized a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a semi-dependent twist beam suspension at the rear. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, although it wasn’t particularly sporty. 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. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, providing enhanced braking performance and stability. The steering was electrically assisted, offering light and precise control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Ford Transit Connect II, and specifically the 1.5 EcoBlue 120 hp Automatic variant, received generally positive reviews for its practicality, fuel efficiency, and comfortable ride. Critics praised the spacious interior and versatile cargo area. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel underpowered when fully loaded or when climbing steep hills. Compared to other trims in the lineup, the 1.5 EcoBlue Automatic offered a good balance between performance and economy. The lower-powered 1.0 EcoBoost petrol engine was more affordable but lacked the torque for heavier loads, while the higher-powered diesel options came at a premium. Fuel economy figures were competitive within its class, making it an attractive option for businesses and families looking to minimize running costs.
Legacy
The 1.5 EcoBlue engine proved to be a relatively reliable unit, although, like all diesel engines, it requires regular maintenance, including oil changes and diesel particulate filter (DPF) regeneration. The eight-speed automatic transmission also demonstrated good durability. On the used car market, the Transit Connect II 1.5 EcoBlue Automatic holds its value reasonably well, particularly well-maintained examples with low mileage. Its practicality, fuel efficiency, and relatively low running costs continue to make it a popular choice for those seeking a versatile and economical vehicle.
