20 Ford Transit Connect cars for sale

Used Ford Transit Connect for sale: everything you need to know

The Ford Transit connect boasts a large load area, user-friendly cab, keen driving characteristics, and low running costs - ticking a lot of boxes for anyone shopping for a relatively compact panel van. An all-new VW-based model makes its debut in 2024, but here we’re concentrating on the second-generation van sold from 2012-2023.

It sits between the smaller Transit Courier and larger Transit Custom in Ford’s range, and is also available in passenger van form as the Tourneo Connect - though we’re covering just the panel van here. Two body lengths, petrol and diesel engines, and a range of trim levels means there’s plenty of choice for used buyers, and the van’s popularity means low prices too - read on to find out more.

Should you buy a Ford Transit Connect? 

If the regular Ford Transit is the default choice in the mid-sized van market, then the same can be said of the Transit Connect among smaller vans. It’s simply a great all-rounder from a trusted name with the most widespread servicing and sales backup of any brand in the UK, and should certainly be on your shortlist as a result.

First, practicality. There are two body lengths, L1 and L2, with space for a pair or a trio of Euro pallets respectively. The back doors open wide, the load area is low, and the maximum payload in some models is just shy of a metric tonne, which is also competitive in this class. Up front, the cabin feels much like that of Ford’s cars such as the Fiesta and the Focus (the latter of which the Connect is related to). Cabin storage is abundant, but you’ll need to look at higher trim lines to get some of the equipment that even basic city cars and superminis now offer, such as air conditioning.

The Focus-derived underpinnings mean the Transit Connect is great to drive by van standards, feeling nimble, accurate, and light, and riding well too. Petrol and diesel engines offer a good mix of performance and economy and are up to the job of the loads a van like this is designed to carry.

Other vans to consider in this class include the Citroen Berlingo, Peugeot Partner, Fiat Doblo and Vauxhall Combo quartet (which are similarly popular, and good to drive), and the Renault Kangoo and related Mercedes-Benz Citan. The Volkswagen Caddy is another key player in this market - and the 2024-on Transit Connect is actually based on the latest Caddy.

What’s the best used Ford Transit Connect model to buy?

The mid-range diesel model with 100PS should cover the needs of most buyers, with enough pulling power and respectable economy - though if you need extra shove for heavier loads or towing, or regularly cover longer distances, the more powerful diesel could be a good option, and shouldn't cost a great deal more to buy. The EcoBoost petrol meanwhile could be the best choice if you primarily work around town. Trend trim is a worthwhile step up over the basic Leader model, but bear in mind that Limited is where you’ll get air conditioning as standard - and could be well worth the extra outlay for keeping cool in the summer or quick defrosting in the winter.