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- Highs Nimble driving characteristics, flexible cabin accommodations, no shortage of options.
- Lows Cheap interior materials, passing on the highway requires patience, ride can be bouncy.
- Verdict The Transit Connect is a pint-sized van that is incredibly versatile.
Overview
While pickup trucks are most associated with contractors and tradesmen, small vans such as the 2020 Ford Transit Connect are more affordable and similarly versatile alternatives. The pint-sized passenger van can seat up to seven people and offers useful configurability. Its spunky four-cylinder engine and modest proportions help make it quick and maneuverable in tight spaces and heavy traffic. The Ford city van also can be fitted with desirable infotainment features and all manner of driver assists. Although its interior materials are the opposite of upscale and its ride quality is far from refined, the 2020 Transit Connect is a highly functional tool for many trades.
What's New for 2020?
For 2020, Ford gives the Transit Connect lineup more standard features. Automatic headlamps with configurable running lights are now standard, as well as rain-sensing windshield wipers. Likewise, forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking are now standard. The previously available orange seatbelts and the Titanium Premium package have been deleted.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
The beauty of the 2020 Transit Connect is that it can be configured and outfitted to meet a variety of needs. We think the mid-level XLT model is the best value. Compared with the base model, it adds a standard touchscreen infotainment system. It brings Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration, built-in navigation, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Every XLT also has blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The only individual options we'd add are adaptive cruise control, front and rear parking sensors, lane-keeping assist, and passive entry. The Trailer Tow package is also a worthy upgrade because it unlocks the van's 2000-pound towing capacity.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The Transit Connect is only offered with front-wheel drive, but it is available with two different four-cylinder engines. The 2.5-liter version pairs with a six-speed automatic transmission. This combination isn't particularly quick, especially when trying to pass on the highway. There's also a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that pairs with an eight-speed automatic, but we haven't tested one with this setup. The Transit Connect also can tow up to 2000 pounds and carry a maximum payload of 1570 pounds. Despite the updated engine, the city van has the same underpinnings since the last time we drove a long-wheelbase model. That version felt very agile around town thanks to its accurate steering and well-controlled body motions. However, it bounced driving over uneven pavement and had irregular tracking on the highway.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The EPA estimates that the Transit Connect's turbo 2.0-liter will earn up to 19 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. The 2.5-liter is rated at up to 20 mpg city and 29 highway. Its only other direct competitor is the Ram ProMaster City, which is rated at 21 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. Since we haven't tested the Ram or the Ford with its 2.0-liter engine, we are unable to report on their real-world mpg.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The 2020 Transit Connect's front seat will look familiar regardless of whether it's in the cargo or passenger van. The latter can be had with a third row that enables seating for up to seven. Every model has a low seating height that emulates a car rather than a truck or crossover. The dashboard incorporates an ergonomic center stack that features physical controls for the climate control and infotainment system. The cargo van offers up to 127 cubic feet of cargo volume while the passenger van provides up to 105 cubes with the second and third rows folded. Desirable options include dual-zone automatic climate control and wireless charging.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Although the base model features an archaic infotainment system with a single USB port, every 2020 Transit Connect is available with a more contemporary touchscreen unit that supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Those who want even more equipment can add a better audio system, a single-disc CD player, and wireless device charging.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
The 2020 Transit Connect hasn't been crash-tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). While some driver-assistance technology is standard, the rest of the roster costs extra. Key safety features include:
- Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking
- Available blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert
- Available lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
Although Ford provides a competitive limited and powertrain warranty, the automaker doesn't offer any complimentary scheduled maintenance.
- Limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles
- No complimentary scheduled maintenance
