Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Transit Connect |
| Generation | Transit Connect II Wagon L1 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 TDCi (95 Hp) Start-Stop |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.8-5 l/100 km (49-47 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.2-4.4 l/100 km (56-53.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.4-4.6 l/100 km (53.5-51.1 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 115-120 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 15.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 95 Hp @ 3600 rpm |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 1500-2000 rpm (169.64 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Duratorq / TZGA, TZGB |
| 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 capacity | 7.3 l (7.71 US qt | 6.42 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1451-1522 kg (3198.91 – 3355.44 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2200-2220 kg (4850.17 – 4894.26 lbs.) |
| Max load | 698-749 kg (1538.83 – 1651.26 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 (braked) | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load (unbraked) | 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 | 1836-1852 mm (72.28 – 72.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2662 mm (104.8 in.) |
| Front track | 1568 mm (61.73 in.) |
| Rear track | 1584 mm (62.36 in.) |
| Front overhang | 878 mm (34.57 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 878 mm (34.57 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 153-154 mm (6.02 – 6.06 in.) |
| Turning circle | 11.7 m (38.39 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, 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 |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
The Ford Transit Connect II Wagon L1 1.6 TDCi (95 hp) Start-Stop, produced between 2013 and 2016, was a key variant in Ford’s European light commercial vehicle lineup. Built on the Ford C2 platform – also underpinning the Ford Focus – the second-generation Transit Connect offered improved practicality, efficiency, and safety compared to its predecessor. The “L1” designation indicates the short wheelbase version, making it particularly suitable for urban environments. This 95 horsepower diesel model, equipped with a five-speed manual transmission and Ford’s Start-Stop technology, was designed to appeal to budget-conscious buyers and those prioritizing fuel economy. It occupied the entry-level position in the wagon range, below higher-powered diesel options and the petrol-powered variants.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Transit Connect variant lies Ford’s 1.6-liter Duratorq TDCi diesel engine, specifically the TZGA or TZGB engine code. This engine is a four-cylinder, inline configuration, utilizing a turbocharger with intercooling to boost power and efficiency. The engine features a common-rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at high pressure for optimized combustion. The valvetrain employs a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design, simplifying the engine’s construction and maintenance. The Start-Stop system automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary (e.g., at traffic lights) and restarts it instantly when the clutch is depressed, contributing to fuel savings in urban driving conditions. The five-speed manual transmission provides a relatively conventional gear selection, with ratios geared towards maximizing fuel efficiency rather than outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 TDCi 95 hp engine, paired with the five-speed manual transmission, delivers adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration is not brisk, with a focus on providing sufficient torque for hauling loads and navigating city streets. The engine produces its peak torque of 230 Nm (169.64 lb.-ft.) between 1500-2000 rpm, making it reasonably responsive in typical driving situations. However, compared to the more powerful 1.6-liter TDCi (115 hp) or the 2.0-liter TDCi options, this variant feels noticeably slower, particularly when fully loaded or climbing hills. The gear ratios are optimized for fuel economy, meaning that higher gears are engaged at lower speeds. This can result in the need to downshift more frequently when overtaking or encountering inclines. The steering is light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, while the suspension provides a comfortable ride, albeit with some body roll during cornering.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Transit Connect L1 1.6 TDCi (95 hp) Start-Stop typically came equipped with a basic but functional level of standard features. These included power steering, electric front windows, a basic audio system (often with USB connectivity), and ABS brakes. Safety features such as driver and passenger airbags were standard. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with durable plastic trim. Optional extras included air conditioning, alloy wheels, parking sensors, and a more advanced audio system with Bluetooth connectivity. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the market, but generally, this variant represented the entry point to the Transit Connect range, with more luxurious features reserved for higher-spec models.
Chassis & Braking
The Transit Connect L1 utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension setup at the front, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. 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 and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing braking performance and stability, particularly on slippery surfaces. The vehicle’s weight-to-power ratio of 15.3 kg/Hp reflects its focus on efficiency rather than outright performance. The electric power steering provides a light and responsive feel, making it easy to maneuver in urban environments.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Ford Transit Connect II Wagon L1 1.6 TDCi (95 hp) Start-Stop was generally well-received by critics as a practical and economical choice. Its fuel efficiency was a major selling point, particularly in Europe where diesel fuel is prevalent and fuel costs are high. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel underpowered, especially when the vehicle is fully loaded. Compared to the higher-output diesel variants, this model offered a more affordable entry price but sacrificed performance. Against competitors like the Volkswagen Caddy and Citroën Berlingo, the Transit Connect offered a competitive package in terms of price, practicality, and fuel economy. Reliability reports suggest that the Duratorq engine is generally robust, but regular maintenance is crucial to prevent issues with the turbocharger and fuel injection system.
Legacy
The Ford Transit Connect II Wagon L1 1.6 TDCi (95 hp) Start-Stop remains a popular choice in the used car market due to its affordability, practicality, and fuel efficiency. The Duratorq engine, while not the most powerful, is known for its durability and relatively low maintenance costs. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for issues with the turbocharger and fuel injection system, and a thorough inspection is recommended before purchase. This variant represents a significant step forward in terms of efficiency and practicality compared to earlier Transit Connect models, and it continues to serve as a versatile and reliable vehicle for a wide range of users.
