The front-wheel-drive Ford Transit Connect compact van was significantly updated for the 2019 model-year. It is available in either a cargo or passenger configuration that can be ordered in short- or long-wheelbase models.

Automotive Fleet recently test drove the 121-inch long-wheelbase Transit Connect XLT cargo van model.

When comparing the 2018 model to the 2019 model, the major changes were under the hood. The 2019 Transit Connect features an all-new powertrain and its first diesel engine. There is a new standard 2.0L gasoline direct injection I-4 engine, and a new, optional 1.5L EcoBlue turbocharged direct injection diesel. Both engines feature standard Auto Start-Stop and are paired with a new 8-speed SelectShift automatic transmission. To help improve fuel efficiency, there is an EcoMode for both the 2.0L gasoline and 1.5L diesel.

There is also an alternative fuel option, where fleets can opt for a 2.5L iVCT I-4 gasoline engine with CNG/LPG gaseous fuel prep package.

Cargo-Carrying Capabilities

The 2019 Transit Connect cargo van has 103.9 cubic feet of cargo volume in short-wheelbase model and 128.6 cubic feet for the long wheelbase model.

The Transit Connect cargo van has ample functionality. The cargo van is configured with wide dual sliding side doors that are effortless to open and has 180 degree swing-out rear cargo doors allowing loading with no door constrictions. A low liftover from the ground to the floor of the cargo compartment makes loading easier, less fatiguing, and more ergonomic for employees.

Driving the Van

Behind the wheel, the Transit Connect drives easily and handles like a passenger car. The Transit Connect has responsive handling, especially important in congested urban applications. With many employees operating from the vehicle the entire workday, driving is less fatiguing with the electric power-assisted steering.

When operating in areas with hilly terrain, the Transit Connect offers Hill Start Assist as standard equipment, which helps prevent needless roll-back accidents in tight traffic-congested roads. Also standard is a rear-view camera to help minimize collisions while backing, which is the leading cause of fleet-related accidents.

The driver and passenger seats in the cargo van are comfortable and supportive of body contours, while providing ample head clearance. Because the seats are mounted at a typical car height, a high step-up isn’t required, which is appreciated by drivers who enter and leave the vehicle numerous times during a workday.

The Transit Connect offers a smooth ride over pothole streets with its front suspension independent Macpherson-strut and a twist-beam with stabilizer bar in the rear. Our test drive showed it has excellent stopping power with its power front/rear disc brakes with Anti-lock Brake System.

The Transit Connect is equipped with a 15.8-gallon fuel tank, which gives it an all-day driving capability that minimizes the need for fill-ups during the work day.

A huge fuel efficiency and safety benefit is a tire pressure monitoring system, which notifies employees when they are driving on under-inflated tires.

2019 Ford Transit Connect Specs:

• Engines: 2.0L I-4, 2.5L I-4 (fleet only), or 1.5L I-4 turbodiesel

• Transmissions: 8-speed or 6-speed (fleet only) automatic

• Cargo Capacity: 103.9 cu.-ft. (SWB) or 128.6 cu.-ft. (LWB)