2010 Ford Transit Connect: 22 MPG in City Driving

Even though the American automaker Ford praised the 2010 Transit Connect every once in a while since it officially unveiled it, this didn't stop the company from applauding some particular features it boasts. For instance, Ford says today the 2010 Transit Connect provides a fuel economy of 22 mpg in city driving and 25 mpg in highway cycle, which are basically some of the best fuel consumption ratings in the class.

“No other vehicle on the road in the U.S. today delivers the combination of fuel economy and useful space as the Ford Transit Connect,” said Chief Nameplate Engineer, Rob Stevens. “It’s a unique package, offering a 1,600 pound payload, 135 cubic feet of cargo space and superior fuel economy.”

For those of you who missed the news, the Transit Connect is powered by a Duratec 2.0-liter DOHC engine that produces a maximum power of 136 hp combined with a torque of 128 lb-ft. The engine is mated to a four-speed automatic transmission, especially aimed at fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

"Ford Transit Connect is a purpose-built commercial vehicle, built on a dedicated commercial vehicle platform in an exclusive commercial vehicle production facility. It is designed, engineered and manufactured by Ford of Europe to beat tough, light commercial vehicle durability standards," the American automaker said in a press statement.

In addition to the 2010 Transit Connect, Ford also announced that it plans to design several electric vans based on the Connect but refused to provide more information regarding the technologies the future models will include.

“Transit Connect will be a useful small business tool,” said Chief Engineer Stevens. “It drives like a car, works like a van and is engineered to be as tough as a truck.”