Hands-on with the new Ford Transit Connect Limited
Ford vans have given the Ford Transit Connect a facelift in line with the rest of the Ford Transit range, today at Vansdirect we got hands-on with the new small van!
Introduction to the new Ford Transit Connect van
Following on from giving the larger Ford Transit Custom van a facelift early on in 2018, Ford vans have also facelifted the smaller Ford Transit Connect and Ford Transit Courier vans. Ford vans have boasted that the new model has evolved with a "comprehensively updated interior and more advanced technology than ever before". Let's take a closer look!
Features of the new Ford Transit Connect
Inside the cab of the new Ford Transit Connect van
The model that we have been given to play with is the high spec limited model, traditionally Limited has been the highest spec available across the Ford Transit Connect range, however Ford vans sprung a surprise at the 2018 IAA Commercial Vehicle Show in Hannover by revealing the Ford Transit Connect Sport van.
A single passenger seat allows for a more spacious and car like feel in the cabin. Limited features such as keyless start, heated and passenger seat and leather steering wheel bring an immediate feel of quality to the new Ford van. Whilst even base level models are loaded with features including steering wheel radio controls, DAB Radio with USB and Bluetooth; these features are upgraded with the addition of the unmissable 4.2 inch touchscreen for Trend and Limited models, which allows you to control your phone, music and navigation system on the move. There's also a handy overhead stowage area (standard across the range) and a glove box with lid (Trend models up). You'd be forgiven for stepping into the cabin and mistaking that of the Ford Transit Connect Limited for one of the Ford passenger car range, with all the features you could possible want combined with excellent levels of comfort.
Load area of the new Ford Transit Connect van
The load area is separated from the cab area of the van by a slimline full steel bulkhead. As this is a facelift, load area dimensions are unaltered from the generous offerings of its predecessor, with volumes of 2.9 cubic metres in L1 models and 3.6 cubic metres in longer L2 models. In Layman's terms, Ford Transit Connect L1 models have space to accommodate three Europallets, or space for up to four 8x4 sheets of material in L2 models. Keeping your load safe and secure is helped with the inclusion of DIN cargo tie downs (standard across the range). The model we had to was a conventional Limited model and hence come with a singular passenger seat and no load through bulkhead, however a dual passenger option with a load-through bulkhead is also available as an option, taking load length up to 3 metres in L1 models and 3.4 metres in L2 models.
Exterior of the new Ford Transit Connect van
The most noticeable change on the new Ford van, mirroring adaptations to the other vans in the Transit van range is the new three-bar grille set higher in the front of the van, this also comes with slimmer headlights than before for a more sleek and sophisticated exterior appearance. The exterior facelift is completed by a new lower bumper area and a front spoiler, not only improving the appearance of the new van but also improving aerodynamics in the process.
How was the new Ford Transit Connect van to drive?
The model it has replaced was always renowned for being a particularly nippy and fun van to drive, we can confirm that this hasn't changed one bit. Equipped with the optional eight-speed automatic transmission, a sharp and responsive steering made it the perfect van for navigating around the city. The rake and reach steering wheel (standard across the range) also ensured we could find the perfect driving position along with the 8-way adjustable seat (Trend models and above).
The new 1.5-litre EcoBlue diesel engine is also impressively punchy and refined, whilst the plethora of driver assistance and safety features ensure you're in safe hands. Standard Connect models get Hill start assist, ABS, EBD and ESC as standard, we also found the rear parking sensors (Limited models and above) to be particularly handy when parking up, with cruise control (Limited models and above) useful when driving on the motorway. Limited models also come as standard with automatic wipers and headlamps, adaptive cornering front fog lamps and air conditioning amongst a plethora of other features.
Certainly a fantastic addition to the small vans range!
New Ford Transit Connect on finance
Interested in a brand-new Ford Transit Connect van? You've come to the right place! Vansdirect a wide range of models available including panel vans and double cabs from ONLY £159pm. All of our new vans are available with cheap van finance options including van leasing, contract hire and hire purchase. Interested? Simply fill in a contact form or call us on 0800 169 69 95 to get the ball rolling today, we also offer cars!