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.
Used Ford Transit Connect fuel economy and performance
- Ford Transit Connect 1.0 EcoBoost 100PS: Ford puts this 1-litre, three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine in nearly everything, so it’s no surprise to find it in the Transit Connect. Here it makes 100PS, features a standard six-speed manual gearbox, and has CO2 emissions of 158g/km.
- Ford Transit Connect 1.5 TDCi EcoBlue 75PS: The first of three 1.5-litre turbodiesels makes 75PS through a six-speed manual gearbox. CO2 emissions are quoted at 133g/km.
- Ford Transit Connect 1.5 TDCi EcoBlue 100PS: In 100PS form you get a little extra performance, the choice of a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic gearbox, and 135g/km of CO2 (manual) or 150g/km (auto).
- Ford Transit Connect 1.5 TDCi EcoBlue 120PS: The most powerful 1.5 diesel makes 120PS and is again offered with manual and automatic gearboxes - with 134g/km of CO2 for the manual and 150g/km for the auto.
What used Ford Transit Connect trim levels are available?
- The Ford Transit Connect Leader starts the range with standard DAB radio, Bluetooth, electric windows, central locking, and overhead storage in the cab.
- The Ford Transit Connect Trend gets a smarter look outside with a body-colour front bumper and a set of wheel trims, plus a height-adjustable driver’s seat, front fog lights, and a voice command system.
- The Ford Transit Connect Limited is more car-like with air conditioning, heated seats, cruise control and rear parking sensors.
- The Ford Transit Connect Sport gets deeper bumpers plus a set of 17-inch alloy wheels, aluminium roof rails, and part-leather trim with red stitching.
- The Ford Transit Connect Active tops the range with SUV-style elements such as raised suspension and plastic body cladding. Inside, there’s Ford’s SYNC3 media system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.
Used Ford Transit Connect dimensions and load capacity
The Ford Transit Connect’s exterior dimensions are:
- Length: 4,425mm (L1), 4,825mm (L2)
- Width: 1,967mm
- Height: 1,830mm (L1), 1,828mm (L2)
The Ford Transit Connect’s payload capacity is:
- Up to 982kg depending on variant
- Maximum load length: 1,786mm (L1), 2,152mm (L2)
- Maximum load width: 1,543mm (L1), 1,496mm (L2), 1,249mm between arches
- Maximum load height: 1,269mm
Used Ford Transit Connect road tax
The Transit Connect is classed as a commercial vehicle like almost all panel vans, and as such it’s subject to a flat rate of tax of £335 per year - or just shy of £176 every six months by Direct Debit.
How much is it to insure a Ford Transit Connect?
Ford hasn’t released official insurance group ratings for the Transit Connect, though your actual insurance premium will vary significantly depending not just on which model and engine you opt for, but how you plan to use the vehicle. We’d recommend speaking to a broker to find an appropriate quote.
