The Ford Transit Connect II Panel Van L2 1.5 TDCi (120 Hp) PowerShift represents a significant iteration in Ford’s compact commercial vehicle lineup, produced from 2015 to 2018. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the second-generation Transit Connect (launched in 2014), this variant aimed to balance fuel efficiency, practicality, and a reasonable level of performance for commercial and fleet applications. It was primarily sold in Europe and other international markets, with a focus on businesses needing a versatile, yet economical, light-duty van. The “L2” designation indicates the long wheelbase version, offering increased cargo capacity compared to the standard length model. This particular configuration, pairing the 1.5-liter turbodiesel engine with Ford’s PowerShift dual-clutch transmission, was a popular choice for those seeking an automatic option without sacrificing too much fuel economy.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Transit Connect |
| Generation | Transit Connect II Panel Van L2 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 TDCi (120 Hp) PowerShift |
| 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 | 11.9 kg/Hp, 83.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm, 209.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 120 Hp |
| Power per litre | 80.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 1750-2000 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Duratorq / XWGB |
| 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 | 1430-1456 kg (3152.61 – 3209.93 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2125-2335 kg (4684.82 – 5147.79 lbs.) |
| Max load | 695-879 kg (1532.21 – 1937.86 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 PowerShift |
| 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Transit Connect variant is the 1.5-liter Duratorq TDCi diesel engine, bearing the internal code XWGB. This engine is a member of Ford’s Duratorq family, known for its robust construction and relatively good fuel economy. It features a transverse mounting and utilizes a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain operating two valves per cylinder. The engine employs a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and torque, and benefits from a common-rail direct fuel injection system for precise fuel delivery and optimized combustion. The PowerShift transmission is a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) that provides automated gear changes while aiming to maintain the efficiency of a manual gearbox. It operates using two separate clutches, one for odd gears and one for even gears, allowing for quicker and smoother shifts than a traditional automatic transmission.
Driving Characteristics
The 120 horsepower and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque offered by this combination provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance for typical commercial use. Acceleration was reasonable, but the PowerShift transmission could sometimes exhibit hesitant behavior at low speeds or during stop-start driving. Compared to the higher-output 1.6-liter EcoBoost petrol engine option, the 1.5 TDCi offered significantly better fuel economy, but at the expense of outright power. The gear ratios in the PowerShift transmission were tuned for efficiency, prioritizing fuel savings over rapid acceleration. Drivers accustomed to manual transmissions might find the PowerShift’s shift logic somewhat unpredictable, particularly when attempting quick overtaking maneuvers.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 TDCi 120 Hp PowerShift L2 typically came equipped with a base level of features suitable for commercial use. Standard equipment generally included air conditioning, power windows, a basic audio system, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels, often denoted by specific package names, added features such as alloy wheels, upgraded interior trim, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, and parking sensors. The interior was generally functional and durable, with hard-wearing plastics and cloth upholstery. Optional extras included a rear parking camera, cruise control, and various cargo area configurations.
Chassis & Braking
The Transit Connect II utilized a McPherson strut independent suspension setup at the front, providing a comfortable ride quality. The rear suspension employed a coil spring and torsion beam arrangement, which was a cost-effective solution for maintaining a reasonable level of ride comfort and handling. 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 was electrically assisted, providing light and precise control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.5 TDCi 120 Hp PowerShift variant of the Transit Connect II was generally well-received by critics as a practical and economical choice for businesses. Its fuel efficiency was a major selling point, and the PowerShift transmission offered the convenience of an automatic without a significant penalty in fuel consumption. However, some reviewers noted the occasional hesitation of the PowerShift transmission and its lack of refinement compared to traditional automatic gearboxes. Compared to the 1.0-liter EcoBoost petrol version, the diesel offered superior torque and fuel economy, making it more suitable for heavier loads and longer distances. The 1.6-liter EcoBoost provided more power but at the cost of increased fuel consumption.
Legacy
The 1.5 TDCi engine and PowerShift transmission combination proved to be reasonably reliable, although the PowerShift transmission did experience some reported issues with clutch wear and mechatronic unit failures in some cases. Regular maintenance, including timely transmission fluid changes, is crucial for ensuring the longevity of the PowerShift gearbox. On the used car market, these Transit Connects are generally considered a good value for money, offering a practical and economical solution for small businesses and tradespeople. Their durability and relatively low running costs continue to make them a popular choice for those seeking a versatile light commercial vehicle.
