Ford Transit Connect

topic of the articles

The Connect Van is little changed from 2107 and that includes the sticker price of $24,604 for the basic XL model. That’s lower than the original price of $25,754 when the Connect debuted, a saving of $1,150. Who says there’s no such thing as progress!

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There’s no choice of engines with the cargo van. The only option is the 2.5L, four-cylinder Duratec which churns out 169 horsepower and 171-lb.ft. of torque. The Duratec comes with a six-speed SelectShift automatic with overdrive.

With its boxy shape, it may not be stylish, but it’s practical. There’s access from the side and rear doors. The passenger seat folds flat for use as a writing service or for laptop use.

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Also available are 180 degree, 50/50 swing-out rear cargo doors or a rear liftgate .

As with the Transit, the customer can have their Connect custom-fitted to meet their need for rooftop ladder racks, storage cabinets, dividers, double floors, drawers, and cargo management packages.

A tire-pressure monitoring system is standard as is a rear-view camera. The cam also provides guidelines to help the driver align their vehicle trailer hitch with the trailer’s receiving hitch.

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Standard as well are the Trailer Tow Package, which includes Sway Control. Sway Control detects and stops wheel slip and under- or over-steer or roll motion. It also helps maintain control when road conditions are bad.

Hill Start Assist is also standard, as is Emergency Brake Assist, which adds braking power should the driver underestimate the stopping distance.

This excerpt is from Herb Ellis’ two-part review of the new 2018 pickup trucks and work vans .