The Ford Transit Connect II Panel Van L2 1.5 TDCi (100 hp) Automatic, produced between 2015 and 2018, represents a key variant within the second generation of Ford’s popular compact commercial vehicle. Positioned as a practical and fuel-efficient option for businesses and tradespeople, this model offered a balance between cargo capacity, running costs, and ease of use thanks to its automatic transmission. It was primarily sold in the European market and increasingly in North America as a versatile cargo and passenger vehicle. This specific configuration, with the 1.5-liter diesel engine and six-speed automatic gearbox, aimed to provide a convenient alternative to the standard manual transmission options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Transit Connect |
| Generation | Transit Connect II Panel Van L2 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 TDCi (100 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 2-3 |
| Doors | 4-5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg, 60.1 UK mpg, 21.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 129 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14.3 kg/Hp, 69.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.7 kg/Nm, 174.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 100 Hp |
| Power per litre | 66.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 2000-2500 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 2000-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Duratorq / XVGA, XVGB |
| Engine displacement | 1499 cm3 (91.47 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 73.5 mm (2.89 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.3 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.85 l (4.07 US qt | 3.39 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1433-1452 kg (3159.22 – 3201.11 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2125-2395 kg (4684.82 – 5280.07 lbs.) |
| Max load | 692-943 kg (1525.6 – 2078.96 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 3220 l (113.71 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) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4818 mm (189.69 in.) |
| Width | 1835 mm (72.24 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2137 mm (84.13 in.) |
| Height | 1862 mm (73.31 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3062 mm (120.55 in.) |
| Front track | 1568 mm (61.73 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1584-1585 mm (62.36 – 62.4 in.) |
| Front overhang | 878 mm (34.57 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 878 mm (34.57 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 159 mm (6.26 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 | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring, Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 300 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 280 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
INTRODUCTION
The Ford Transit Connect II, launched in 2013, represented a significant step forward for Ford’s compact van range. The L2 variant denoted the long wheelbase version, offering increased cargo capacity. The 1.5 TDCi 100 hp Automatic, introduced in 2015, was aimed at operators who prioritized convenience and ease of driving, particularly in urban environments. This model sat in the lower-mid range of the Transit Connect lineup, offering a more affordable entry point than the higher-powered diesel options or the petrol variants. It was a direct response to the growing demand for automatic transmissions in the light commercial vehicle segment, particularly in Europe.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Transit Connect variant is the 1.5-liter Duratorq TDCi diesel engine, specifically the XVGA or XVGB engine code depending on the exact specification. This engine is a four-cylinder, inline configuration, utilizing a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. It features a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and efficiency. The engine employs a common-rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel at high pressure for optimized combustion. The 100 hp output is achieved at a relatively modest engine speed, prioritizing fuel economy and drivability over outright performance. Paired with this engine is a six-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and convenient gear changes. This transmission is a conventional torque converter automatic, chosen for its reliability and suitability for commercial applications.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5 TDCi 100 hp Automatic Transit Connect offers a comfortable and undemanding driving experience. While not particularly quick, it provides sufficient power for typical urban and suburban driving. The automatic transmission eliminates the need for constant gear changes, making it ideal for stop-start traffic. However, compared to the manual transmission versions or the higher-output 1.6-liter EcoBoost petrol engine, acceleration is noticeably slower. The six-speed automatic is well-programmed, offering smooth shifts and a reasonable spread of gear ratios. The torque curve is relatively flat, providing usable power across a wide range of engine speeds. The weight of the vehicle, combined with the modest horsepower, means that fully loaded, performance can be further diminished.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 TDCi 100 hp Automatic typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included power windows, central locking, an adjustable steering column, and a basic audio system with USB connectivity. The interior trim was functional and durable, prioritizing practicality over luxury. Optional extras included air conditioning, a rear parking sensor, upgraded audio systems, and navigation. Higher trim levels offered additional features such as alloy wheels, body-colored bumpers, and more comfortable seating. The L2 long wheelbase version provided a generous cargo area, making it suitable for a wide range of commercial applications.
Chassis & Braking
The Transit Connect II utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout. The front suspension consists of independent McPherson struts with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, providing a comfortable ride and good handling. The rear suspension employs a semi-independent torsion beam setup, which is cost-effective and provides adequate stability. Braking is handled by ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety. The steering is electrically assisted, providing light and precise control. The vehicle’s relatively low weight helps to contribute to its nimble handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.5 TDCi 100 hp Automatic Transit Connect was generally well-received by critics as a practical and economical workhorse. Its fuel economy was a major selling point, particularly compared to petrol-powered alternatives. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel underpowered when fully loaded or when driving on steep inclines. Compared to the 1.6-liter EcoBoost petrol engine, the diesel offered superior fuel economy but less outright performance. The automatic transmission was praised for its smoothness and convenience, but some drivers preferred the greater control offered by the manual gearbox. Reliability was generally good, with the Duratorq diesel engine proving to be a robust and dependable unit.
Legacy
The Ford Transit Connect II 1.5 TDCi 100 hp Automatic has proven to be a reliable and durable vehicle, and well-maintained examples continue to be popular on the used car market. The Duratorq engine, while not the most refined, is known for its longevity and relatively low maintenance costs. The automatic transmission, if serviced regularly, is also generally reliable. The vehicle’s practicality and fuel efficiency continue to make it an attractive option for small businesses and tradespeople. Its enduring popularity is a testament to Ford’s successful formula for a compact, versatile, and economical commercial vehicle.
