Ford’s Transit Connect now offers a higher payload and increased fuel efficiency as part of a series of updates to increase its capabilities for fleets.
In response to customer feedback, the vehicle now offers up to 2,501kg gross vehicle mass (GVM) on selected variants, increasing the maximum payload to 982kg.
It’s an increase of 79kg over previous versions, enabling fleets to carry more cargo or fit extra equipment onboard without impacting fuel efficiency, and has been achieved by a rethink on wheel and tyre configurations but also by removing the dual passenger seat option. The latter however remains available for derivatives with lower GVM.
The higher-payload Transit Connect is offered with a range of powertrains, including 100hp or 120hp 1.5‑litre EcoBlue diesel engines with six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmissions.
Alongside increased payload, Ford has also optimised fuel efficiency for the Transit Connect with the EcoBlue engine range, largely thanks to the addition of low rolling resistance tyres. It means the best-selling Transit Connect model – the L1 Trend – now delivers 134g/km of CO2 emissions WLTP compared to 139g/km before and 53.3mpg instead of 51.4mpg for the 100hp variant.
Ford has also approved its entire range of 1.5-litre EcoBlue diesel engines for use with Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) fuel following a testing programme to ensure there would be no impact on servicing or performance.
Certain markets in Europe now also get a new Limited trim, focused on exterior and interior design and comfort additions. These introduce bespoke 16-inch alloy wheels as well as body-coloured wing mirrors, door handles and side mouldings. Extra equipment includes heated seats, auto lighting and rain-sensing wipers.
Deliveries of the updated Transit Connect models to Ford dealers are due from mid-November.
