The Ford Transit Connect II Panel Van L2 1.6 TDCi (115 hp) represents a significant iteration in Ford’s compact commercial vehicle lineup, produced from 2013 to 2016. Positioned as a versatile workhorse, this variant of the second-generation Transit Connect (based on the Ford C2 platform, shared with the Focus) aimed to provide a balance of fuel efficiency, cargo capacity, and affordability for small businesses and tradespeople in the North American and European markets. The “L2” designation indicates the long wheelbase version, offering increased cargo volume compared to the standard length model. This particular engine and transmission combination – the 1.6-liter Duratorq turbo-diesel paired with a 6-speed manual transmission – was a common configuration, offering a practical solution for everyday commercial needs.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Transit Connect |
| Generation | Transit Connect II Panel Van L2 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 TDCi (115 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 2-3 |
| Doors | 4-5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg, 49.6 UK mpg, 17.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg, 64.2 UK mpg, 22.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 128 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.2 kg/Hp, 82.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm, 192.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 115 Hp @ 3600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 73.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 270 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (199.14 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Duratorq / T1GA |
| Engine displacement | 1560 cm3 (95.2 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.3 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.2 l (6.55 US qt | 5.46 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.3 l (7.71 US qt | 6.42 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1401-1451 kg (3088.68 – 3198.91 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2135-2405 kg (4706.87 – 5302.12 lbs.) |
| Max load | 734-954 kg (1618.19 – 2103.21 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 | 745 kg (1642.44 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, manual 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Transit Connect variant is the 1.6-liter Duratorq TDCi engine, part of Ford’s Duratorq family of diesel engines. This engine, identified by the code T1GA, is a four-cylinder, inline configuration with a displacement of 1560cc. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) operating two valves per cylinder. The engine utilizes a common rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion and efficiency. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to increase power output and improve torque across a wider RPM range. The 6-speed manual transmission provides precise gear selection and contributes to the vehicle’s fuel economy. The transmission’s gear ratios are tuned for both city driving and highway cruising, prioritizing fuel efficiency without sacrificing usability.
Driving Characteristics
The 115 hp and 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) of torque offered by this powertrain configuration provide adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration is best described as steady, with a focus on usability rather than outright speed. The engine delivers its peak torque between 1750 and 2500 rpm, making it well-suited for carrying loads and navigating urban environments. Compared to higher-output versions of the Transit Connect, such as those equipped with the 1.6-liter EcoBoost gasoline engine, this diesel variant prioritizes fuel economy and low-end torque. The manual transmission allows for greater driver control, but requires more driver involvement than an automatic. The gear ratios are spaced to keep the engine within its optimal torque band during typical driving conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Transit Connect L2 1.6 TDCi typically came with a relatively basic level of equipment, reflecting its commercial vehicle focus. Standard features generally included power windows, a basic audio system (often with AM/FM radio and auxiliary input), and a driver’s airbag. Air conditioning was often an optional extra. Interior upholstery was typically durable cloth, designed for practicality and ease of cleaning. Higher trim levels, if available, might have added features such as a trip computer, upgraded audio systems, and additional safety equipment. The van’s interior was designed with functionality in mind, offering a configurable cargo area with multiple tie-down points.
Chassis & Braking
The Transit Connect II utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension with a coil spring and anti-roll bar, providing a comfortable ride and predictable handling. The rear suspension employs a coil spring and torsion beam setup, which is cost-effective and provides adequate load-carrying capacity. The braking system consists of ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The steering is rack and pinion with electric power assistance, offering a responsive and precise feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Transit Connect II 1.6 TDCi was generally well-received by critics for its fuel efficiency, practicality, and competitive pricing. It was often praised as a sensible choice for small businesses needing a reliable and economical van. Compared to gasoline-powered alternatives, the diesel engine offered significantly better fuel economy, making it a cost-effective option for high-mileage users. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could be somewhat noisy and lacked the refinement of some competitors. Compared to the higher-powered gasoline versions, the diesel offered less outright performance but superior fuel economy and torque for hauling loads.
Legacy
The 1.6 TDCi Duratorq engine, while generally reliable, is known to require regular maintenance, particularly regarding the diesel particulate filter (DPF). Proper servicing and the use of high-quality diesel fuel are crucial for preventing DPF issues. In the used car market, these Transit Connects are often sought after for their affordability and practicality. They represent a good value for businesses or individuals needing a compact and fuel-efficient van. The Transit Connect II, in general, helped solidify Ford’s position as a leading provider of commercial vehicles in both Europe and North America, and this 1.6 TDCi variant played a key role in that success.
