Ford has taken the wraps off its new Transit Connect, which gets its first-ever plug-in hybrid version while also delivering enhanced carrying capacity and capability.
On sale from the spring, the third-generation model will also be available in diesel guise and will deliver a new seating concept for Kombi models along with enhanced technologies and a connected digital cockpit.
The line-up includes short- or long-wheelbase options in two‑seat Van or five‑seat Kombi bodystyles. The panel van features a new load area design that delivers an increased load volume of 3.1m3 or 3.7m3 depending on wheelbase choice. Maximum payload is 820kg with a 1,500kg towing capacity.
The Kombi introduces a new flexible seating concept, converting the van quickly from a five-seater to a van by folding the rear seat. This increases the load volume to 2.5m3 (L1) or 3.1m3 (L2), with L2 models having space for two Euro pallets. Folded over, the rear seats form a full-height bulkhead.
Conversions that include refrigeration and racking are also available through the accredited Ford Pro Convertor network, which spans more than 200 partners across Europe; all supplied with aftersales care equivalent to that of a factory Ford van.
First to arrive will be the diesel variants, featuring a 2.0-litre EcoBlue turbodiesel engine with two power outputs: the entry-level 102hp unit with six-speed manual or a 122hp engine with a six-speed manual gearbox or seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Fuel efficiency up to 58.8mpg is expected and intelligent all-wheel drive will be available to provide enhanced traction where needed.
The Transit Connect PHEV will join the range before the end of the year, rounding out Ford’s work to electrify its Transit family in Europe, following the arrival of the E-Transit, E-Transit Custom and the E-Transit Courier due later this year.
The headline act for the new Transit Connect, the PHEV features a 1.5-litre EcoBoost petrol engine, married up to a high-voltage battery and electric motor to deliver a combined 150hp and 350Nm of torque through a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Maximum payload is 770kg and maximum trailer weight is 1,400kg.
The Transit Connect PHEV has a targeted electric range of up to 68 miles and, in EV mode, can still deliver up to 330Nm of torque for urban load-hauling.
It comes with an onboard 11kW AC charger and drivers can also charge at up to 50kW at a DC fast charger.
Three drive modes are available to help to optimise energy use: EV Now, which uses only the electric motor; EV Auto, which balances the electric motor and petrol engine; and EV Later, which saves EV power for later.
“Over the past two years, we’ve electrified the Transit family to help every kind of customer accelerate their productivity and electrify their business. Our all-new Transit Connect is another key step in that mission,” said Hans Schep, general manager, Ford Pro, Europe. “Transit Connect’s new plug-in hybrid offering, high-tech interior and support from Ford Pro pack serious hard-working appeal into a stylish and compact body.”
Three trims are available, depending on the model. The Trend grade is available on van and Kombi models, aimed at fleet and cost-conscious buyers. Sitting above it is the Limited, available as a van with 17-inch alloy wheels and providing a work surface in the passenger seat back. The Active is available for the Kombi and adds in SUV-inspired styling, LED lights and roof rails.
Across the range, a 10-inch digital instrument cluster comes as standard, combined with a 10‑inch colour central touchscreen with Connected Navigation available and offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto mirroring, with wireless device charging on Limited and Active series.
Options include heated front seats certified by Germany’s Campaign for Healthier Backs and featuring four-way electric lumbar and adjustable extended leg supports, accompanied by a heated steering wheel.
Transit Connect also offers the broadest-ever suite of advanced driver assistance systems. Standard technologies include Pre-collision assist with auto emergency braking and forward collision warning, evasive steer assist and intersection assist to help prevent or mitigate collisions with other road users.
A rear-view camera and blind spot information system with cross-traffic alert are standard on higher grades, while the Exit Warning tech, already seen on the new Transit Custom, can help to prevent ‘dooring’ incidents. Further optional technologies include Pro Trailer Backup Assist.
Fleets can also benefit from enhanced productivity delivered by the Ford Pro platform of software and services. These include a dedicated fleet solution for telematics, enabled by a plug-in device.
Fleets can also use the Ford Pro Service feature to gain maintenance support, including Mobile Servicing capability that can carry out 70% of maintenance and repair tasks at a time and location convenient for the customer. It’s been tested by an unnamed but “major” UK fleet, which found that it could help reduce offroad time from three days to as little as two hours for equivalent work.
The Transit Connect enters production in spring 2024, with initial deliveries of the diesel van scheduled for summer this year as part of a phased launch plan. Transit Connect PHEV will join the range before the end of the year, with Kombi models completing the line-up in early 2025. Prices are yet to be confirmed.
