2011 Ford Transit Connect

Ford's "One Ford" strategy, which refers to the company's plan to leverage its global product lineup to spread models across new markets, is responsible for bringing the Transit Connect stateside. It's a small commercial van Ford introduced in Europe and other markets in 2003. Maximum cargo space is about 135 cubic feet, close to that of larger minivans. The front-wheel-drive Transit Connect comes in cargo and passenger configurations, the latter with a second row



From the load floor to the ceiling, Ford says there's up to 59.1 inches of room, just 5.9 inches short of what a standard-height Dodge Sprinter offers. The Ford Transit Connect enters its sophomore year in the U.S. with few changes. The most important addition is a new model and powertrain option: the Ford Transit Connect Electric, which is reviewed separately.



Offered as both a cargo and passenger van, the Transit Connect is more suited for commercial than personal use. As Consumer Guide says, "Transit Connect neatly fills a size gap between the compact Chevrolet HHR Panel and enormous Dodge/Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. The Transit Connect succeeds as a small cargo van. For businesses, Ford also offers its Work Solutions computer system. Unless the vast cargo space or increased payload/towing capacity of a full-size van are absolutely essential to you, the Transit Connect is a viable and economical alternative for businesses in need of a commercial van.



However there are many vehicles that can be cross-shopped with the Transit Connect. However the Mazda5 and Kia Rondo offer far less cargo space compared to the Transit Connect.

Like most European-bred vans, the 2011 Ford Transit Connect is all about packing maximum functionality into minimum space.



The 2011 Ford Transit Connect is a compact work van available in XL Van, XLT Van, XLT Wagon and XLT Premium Wagon trim levels. The XLT Van adds body-color bumpers, full power accessories, heated mirrors, keyless entry, cruise control, a cargo area 12-volt power point and a CD player.



Entry-level XLT Wagon models get stability control, foglights and a 60/40-split-folding three-passenger second-row bench seat. The new XLT Premium Wagon adds flip-open rear side windows, storage pockets in the rear doors and a four-speaker audio system.



The Van trims can also be equipped with the Tool Link by DeWalt tool tracking and inventory system. Options available on the XLT trims include rear parking sensors, rear doors that open to 255 degrees, Bluetooth and remote ignition. Every 2011 Ford Transit Connect features a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine good for 138 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque.

EPA-estimated fuel economy is 20 mpg city/26 mpg highway and 23 mpg combined.

Standard safety equipment includes four-wheel antilock brakes (disc front, drum rear) and front side airbags. Stability control is standard on Wagon models and available as an option on Van body styles. In NHTSA frontal crash tests, the Transit Connect earned a top five-star frontal crash rating for the driver and a four-star rating for the front seat passenger, as well as five stars for both front and rear passengers in side-impact tests.



Inside, the Transit Connect offers a carlike driving position. When it comes to cargo capacity, the Transit Connect Van offers a healthy 135 cubic feet, which is about 100 cubic feet less than Ford's larger Econoline vans. For ferrying people around, the Wagon's rear seats offer a firm seat bottom and reasonable elbow room. The 2011 Ford Transit Connect's emphasis on practicality is reflected in the driving experience.