“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.”
The Transit Connect includes a Duratec 2.0-liter DOHC powerplant that generates 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.
The van will be available in the form of either a cargo van or with side windows for carrying two, four or five people. The base model, Transit Connect XL cargo, will be priced at $21,475, including shipping.
“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.”
Ford is also developing an electric version of the van, but more details on the project are yet to be unveiled.
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