Beginning from fall of 2013, U.S. and Canadian customers visiting Ford’s showrooms will be welcomed by a new minivan named the Transit Connect Wagon, which will be offered in two wheelbase lengths and in five- and seven-passenger configurations.
Being based on the 2014 Transit Connect commercial van has its perks as the Transit Connect Wagon offers at least a 1,200-pound payload (544 kg), while Ford claims that when properly equipped, it can tow up to 2,000 pounds (907 kg), which it says is 500 pounds (227 kg) more than a four-cylinder Toyota Highlander SUV.
Motivation is provided by a choice of two gasoline engines, a base 2.5-liter four-cylinder unit and an optional 1.6-liter EcoBoost turbo that Ford estimates to deliver more than 30 mpg (7.8 lt/100km) on the highway. Both powerplants are connected to a standard six-speed automatic transmission. Ford has not announced any performance numbers for either engine.
The 2014 Transit Connect Wagon is fitted with a sliding rear door on both sides and can be equipped with three rows of seats in a 2+3+2 configuration. The middle row seats can be split 60/40, while the third-row seating comes with independent fore-and-aft sliding capability.
Buyers will also be able to choose between a rear liftgate or symmetrical, side-hinged cargo doors.
Ford’s new people mover will offer an array of options ranging from full-glass panoramic roof and rear view camera, to leather or heavy-duty vinyl seats and its SYNC infotainment system with a 6.5-inch touch screen display and navigation.
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