The Ford Transit Connect was introduced to North Americans in 2009 and has since become a fixture on the commercial vehicle scene. Now, the blue oval is gearing up for the release of the all-new 2014 Transit Connect, which will receive a number of improvements.
Currently on display at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, the Transit Connect is set to go on sale by the end of this year.
It will be built in Valencia, Spain, and will come in two variations – a van and wagon.
- The Transit Connect van will appeal to small business owners and commercial fleets of every size.
- The Transit Connect wagon, which seats seven passengers and boasts a stylish appearance, will offer retail customers the same comfort and convenience as traditional minivans. This people mover will also garner attention from the commercial vehicle market.
The Transit Connect lineup will be available with a standard 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine or an optional 1.6-litre EcoBoost. Both options will be paired to a six-speed automatic transmission.
The 2014 model will be able to accomplish more than past Transit Connects, and this is where things get more exciting. For the first time, the vehicle will have an available factory trailer package that can tow up to 2,000 pounds. The package includes a hitch, Trailer Sway Control, and a 4-pin connector.
In addition, the vehicle will boast excellent fuel economy, up to 1,600-pounds of payload and more than 130 cubic feet of cargo space, depending on the trim.
Ford’s Transit Connect is well timed as global commercial vehicle sales are expected to increase by 28 per cent (4.8 million) through 2017. It will be joined by the 2014 Ford Transit. Together, the two will provide business and commercial fleet customers with a number of different options to suit their specific needs.
Have you driven a Transit Connect in the past? Let us know in the comment below.