The Ford Transit Connect II Wagon L1 1.5 TDCi (75 hp) represents an entry-level variant of the second-generation Transit Connect, produced between 2015 and 2018. Positioned as a practical and fuel-efficient option within the broader Transit Connect lineup, this model catered to buyers prioritizing economy and functionality over outright performance. It was primarily sold in Europe and other international markets, serving as a compact commercial and passenger vehicle. This specific configuration, with its 1.5-liter turbodiesel engine and five-speed manual transmission, offered a balance between affordability and usability for small businesses, families, and individuals needing a versatile vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Transit Connect |
| Generation | Transit Connect II Wagon L1 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 TDCi (75 Hp) |
| 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) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg, 65.7 UK mpg, 23.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg, 61.4 UK mpg, 21.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 120 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 18.9 kg/Hp, 53 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.4 kg/Nm, 155.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 75 Hp |
| Power per litre | 50 Hp/l |
| Torque | 220 Nm @ 1750-2000 rpm (162.26 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Duratorq / XUGA |
| 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 | 6.2 l (6.55 US qt | 5.46 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1415-1439 kg (3119.54 – 3172.45 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2220 kg (4894.26 lbs.) |
| Max load | 781-805 kg (1721.81 – 1774.72 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%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 745 kg (1642.44 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 | 5 gears, manual 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 (75 hp) is a compact panel van and wagon produced by Ford from 2015 to 2018 as part of the second generation Transit Connect range. Built on the Ford global B-car platform, also known as the 1HX0/A3 platform, it shared its underpinnings with the Ford Focus. This L1 (short wheelbase) version offered a practical and economical solution for both commercial and private use, particularly in European and Asian markets. The 75 hp variant served as the entry point to the Transit Connect lineup, emphasizing fuel efficiency and affordability.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Transit Connect L1 1.5 TDCi (75 hp) lies the Duratorq 1.5-liter inline-four turbodiesel engine, designated with the engine code XUGA. This engine is a member of Ford’s Duratorq family, known for its durability and efficiency. It features a common-rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at high pressure for optimized combustion. The engine utilizes a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain, operating two valves per cylinder. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power output and improve torque. The five-speed manual transmission was standard, providing a relatively simple and robust drivetrain. The engine’s design prioritized fuel economy and low emissions, meeting Euro 6 standards.
Driving Characteristics
The 75 hp output of the 1.5 TDCi engine translates to modest performance. Acceleration is not brisk, and the vehicle is best suited for urban and suburban driving rather than high-speed highway travel. The five-speed manual transmission offers a reasonable spread of gears, but the engine requires frequent shifting to maintain momentum, especially when loaded. Torque delivery is relatively flat, peaking at 220 Nm (162 lb-ft) between 1750 and 2000 rpm, providing adequate pulling power for everyday tasks. Compared to higher-output versions of the Transit Connect, such as those with the 1.6-liter EcoBoost petrol engine, the 1.5 TDCi feels significantly less powerful. However, it compensates with superior fuel economy and lower running costs. The gear ratios are tuned for efficiency, prioritizing fuel savings over outright speed.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Transit Connect L1 1.5 TDCi (75 hp) typically came with a basic level of equipment, reflecting its position as an entry-level model. Standard features generally included power steering, ABS brakes, a driver’s airbag, and basic steel wheels. Interior appointments were functional rather than luxurious, with durable cloth upholstery and a simple dashboard layout. Air conditioning, power windows, and a radio/CD player were often optional extras. Higher trim levels offered upgrades such as alloy wheels, upgraded audio systems, and additional safety features. The focus was on providing a practical and affordable vehicle for commercial or family use, with options available to enhance comfort and convenience.
Chassis & Braking
The Transit Connect L1 utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a semi-independent torsion beam suspension at the rear. This setup provides a reasonable balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The steering is rack and pinion with electric power assistance, providing light and precise steering feel. The suspension is tuned for a comfortable ride, but it can feel somewhat bouncy when the vehicle is heavily loaded. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Ford Transit Connect L1 1.5 TDCi (75 hp) was generally well-received as a practical and economical vehicle. Critics praised its fuel efficiency, spacious interior, and versatility. However, the engine’s limited power output was a common criticism, particularly when the vehicle was fully loaded. Compared to other trims in the Transit Connect lineup, such as the 1.0 EcoBoost petrol version, the 1.5 TDCi offered lower running costs but less performance. It competed with other compact vans and wagons, such as the Volkswagen Caddy and the Citroën Berlingo, offering a competitive package in terms of price, fuel economy, and practicality.
Legacy
The 1.5 TDCi engine, while not known for blistering performance, has proven to be relatively reliable in the Transit Connect. Common issues are typically related to the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and the fuel injection system, particularly if the vehicle is primarily used for short journeys. In the used car market, the 75 hp variant remains an affordable option for buyers seeking a practical and economical van or wagon. Its simplicity and relatively low maintenance costs make it an attractive choice for small businesses and individuals on a budget. While not a performance icon, the Transit Connect L1 1.5 TDCi (75 hp) served a valuable role in providing a versatile and affordable transportation solution.
