September’s used van hero: Ford Connect

September 17, 2018

The Ford Transit Connect named Glass’s Used Commercial Hero for September 2018.

Each month, Glass’s Commercial Vehicle editors hold a meeting to name the current Used Van Hero in the UK market – the model they believe offers versatility, durability and outstanding value for money.

Andy Picton, Chief Commercial Vehicle Editor, said: ″Although there has always been plenty of competition in the light van sector, the Ford Transit Connect is the ′go to’ van for thousands of operators″

Why?

Offered in four trim levels – Base, Trend, Limited and Sport – the range has a comprehensive level of specification and is a favourite of the used market. The Transit Connect is spacious, well laid-out and highly functional with a choice of two or three front seats, a full-height, full-width bulkhead available glazed or unglazed, a side loading door and symmetrical rear doors as standard on either the L1 or L2.

The Double-Cab-in-Van has a second row of three seats with a moveable full width, full height mesh bulkhead whilst the Transit Connect Kombi incorporates a high level of flexibility between load space and passenger accommodation. You can also specify a glazed rear tailgate with wash/wipe and heated de-mist option on any of the models.

When was it on sale?

Replacing the long serving Escort van, the original 2002 Transit Connect was assembled in Turkey.  The second generation also built in Turkey, entered production in 2013, receiving a facelift earlier this year.

What’s good?

It is a great looking van, with a robustly constructed interior with plenty of storage. There is a comprehensive combination of trim levels, engine powers, lengths, body styles and GVWs meaning there is a model for everyone. Ford has a great van dealer network and the vehicle comes with a good warranty package and competitive SMR costs.

What’s bad?

In bright sunshine, the instrument panel can become difficult to read. The vehicle has a modest towing capacity with the engine becoming vocal on motorway trips. Only higher specifications get the flexible dual passenger seat that can flip up to provide extra storage or fold down to create a writing desk.

Ideal buy?

Ford Transit Connect 200 1.6TDCI L1 Trend 1414 plate with 55,000m on the clock

Retail £8,225 Trade £6,925