The 2018 Ford Transit Connect is a highly versatile commercial van or passenger vehicle. Starting at $24,420 (including a $1,120 destination charge), the Transit Connect is available as a cargo van or passenger wagon, with a standard or extended wheelbase, and five unique trims. The multiple configurations make the 2018 Ford Transit Connect one of the better options for a business or individual looking to use this vehicle for commercial applications on the market.
What's New for 2018
The Transit Connect has gone through multiple changes in recent years, both cosmetically and under the hood. However, for 2018 both the cargo van and passenger wagon are mainly unchanged. One item improved on all trims is an upgraded 6.5-inch screen with rearview camera in the XLT Cargo Van and Passenger Wagon. Ford introduced an updated 2019 Transit Connect at the 2018 Chicago Auto Show – it will arrive in dealers later this year.
Choosing Your Ford Transit Connect
There are two different Ford Transit Connect models, the cargo-focused Van or the passenger-friendly Wagon. The Van is best suited for commercial or business owners looking to transport freight, while the Wagon works for both personal or commercial transportation.
All Ford Transit Connects have the same powertrain, featuring a 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine that delivers 169 horsepower and 171 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission is also standard in all trim levels. Ford offers a CNG/Propane conversion kit that can be added to the cargo van for an additional $315. The Ford Transit Connect Van returns an EPA-estimated 20 miles per gallon city and 27 mpg highway, while the Wagon drops slightly, with 19 mpg city and 27 mpg highway.
Ford offers the Transit Connect in either 104.8-inch or 120.6-inch wheelbases. Go with the short-wheelbase Van and there's 103.9 cubic feet of cargo space, while the long-wheelbase variant offers 128.6 cubes. The big difference between the short- and long-wheelbase Transit Connect Wagon focuses on passenger hauling – the LWB features a third-row of seats.
The Van is available in two trim levels, XL and XLT. The Wagon offers consumers three trim levels – the aforementioned XL and XLT, and a better-equipped Titanium.
The 2018 Ford Transit Connect is an incredibly diverse cargo or passenger van that can be used for commercial or personal applications. Due to the lack of advanced technology and safety features, consumers looking for a passenger van for kids might want to pass up on this vehicle. However, if shuttling people or cargo is important, the compact Transit Connect is a smart buy.