The Ford Transit Connect II Wagon L1 1.5 TDCi Automatic, produced from 2015 to 2018, represents a key variant within the second generation of Ford’s popular compact commercial and passenger vehicle. Positioned as a mid-range offering, this model combined the fuel efficiency of a small-displacement diesel engine with the convenience of an automatic transmission, targeting buyers seeking a practical and easy-to-drive vehicle for both work and family use. It was primarily sold in the European market, where compact vans and wagons are highly popular, but also saw limited sales in North America. This specific configuration aimed to bridge the gap between the base, more utilitarian trims and the higher-specification models with more powerful engines.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Transit Connect |
| Generation | Transit Connect II Wagon L1 |
| 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 | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 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) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 133 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 15.3 kg/Hp, 65.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.1 kg/Nm, 163.3 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 | 1531 kg (3375.28 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2220 kg (4894.26 lbs.) |
| Max load | 689 kg (1518.98 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1029 l (36.34 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2003 l (70.74 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.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4418 mm (173.94 in.) |
| Width | 1835 mm (72.24 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2137 mm (84.13 in.) |
| Height | 1844-1852 mm (72.6 – 72.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2662 mm (104.8 in.) |
| Front track | 1568 mm (61.73 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1584 mm (62.36 in.) |
| Front overhang | 878 mm (34.57 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 878 mm (34.57 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 140-153 mm (5.51 – 6.02 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 | 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, 320×25 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 280×11 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 Wagon L1 1.5 TDCi Automatic, launched in 2015, is a compact, five-seater minivan based on the Ford C2 platform (also known as the 1HX0/A3 platform). It represents the second generation of the Transit Connect, which was originally introduced in 2002. This L1 designation refers to the short wheelbase version, making it particularly suitable for urban environments. The 1.5 TDCi engine and automatic transmission combination was introduced as a refinement to the lineup, offering a more accessible and user-friendly option compared to the manual transmission variants and the more powerful 1.6-liter engine.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Transit Connect variant lies the 1.5-liter Duratorq TDCi diesel engine, specifically coded XVGA or XVGB 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. The engine benefits from a turbocharger with an intercooler, which enhances power output and efficiency. Fuel is delivered via a modern diesel commonrail direct injection system, ensuring precise fuel metering and optimized combustion. The 1.5 TDCi produces 100 horsepower and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque between 2000 and 2500 rpm. Paired with this engine is a six-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and convenient gear changes. This transmission was chosen for its ease of use, particularly in stop-and-go traffic, and to broaden the appeal of the Transit Connect to a wider range of buyers.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5 TDCi Automatic Transit Connect offers a comfortable and practical driving experience, albeit not a particularly sporty one. The 100 horsepower output provides adequate power for everyday driving, but acceleration is modest. The automatic transmission is tuned for fuel efficiency, resulting in relatively relaxed gear changes. Compared to the manual transmission versions, the automatic sacrifices some responsiveness, but gains in ease of use. The gear ratios are optimized for cruising at highway speeds, but overtaking maneuvers require careful planning. The weight of the vehicle, around 1531 kg (3375 lbs), does impact performance, but the torque available from the diesel engine helps to mitigate this. The suspension is tuned for comfort, providing a reasonably smooth ride even on uneven surfaces.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 TDCi Automatic typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, and a basic audio system with USB connectivity. Safety features such as ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and driver/passenger airbags were also standard. Higher trim levels offered optional extras such as alloy wheels, a more advanced audio system with touchscreen display, navigation, rear parking sensors, and cruise control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a durable and practical design. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing usability over aesthetics.
Chassis & Braking
The Transit Connect II Wagon L1 utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension setup at the front, providing good handling and ride comfort. The rear suspension employs a coil spring and torsion beam arrangement, which is a cost-effective and space-efficient solution. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front (320x25mm) and solid discs at the rear (280x11mm). The ABS system helps to prevent wheel lockup during hard braking, enhancing safety. The electric power steering provides light and precise steering feel, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.5 TDCi Automatic variant of the Transit Connect was generally well-received by critics as a practical and economical choice. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and ease of use. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked outright power, particularly when fully loaded. Compared to the 1.6-liter gasoline engine option, the 1.5 TDCi offered significantly better fuel economy, but less performance. Against other diesel-powered compact vans in the European market, such as the Volkswagen Caddy and the Citroën Berlingo, the Transit Connect offered a competitive package in terms of price, space, and fuel efficiency.
Legacy
The Ford Transit Connect II Wagon L1 1.5 TDCi Automatic has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle, with the Duratorq diesel engine generally known for its durability. Common issues are typically related to the diesel particulate filter (DPF), which can become clogged if the vehicle is primarily used for short trips. The automatic transmission, while generally reliable, requires regular fluid changes to ensure smooth operation. On the used car market, these models represent a good value proposition for buyers seeking a practical and economical vehicle. Their compact size, fuel efficiency, and versatility continue to make them a popular choice for both commercial and private use.
