2023 Ford Transit Connect

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Rating7.8

Ranked #1 in 

Compact Van
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$32,790 - $38,560
Starting Price 
Nathan Dyer's image
Nathan Dyer 

Senior Editor,

Updated on July 18, 2024

ProsConsWhat's New

Handy maneuverability in cramped lanes

Use of poor materials inside the cabin

No changes promised with Connect Cargo Van

Highly practical and compact

Lethargic on highways

Part of the second Transit Connect generation debuted in 2014

Exceptionally versatile cabin

Not enough competent to tackle bouncy roads

Number of customization options

Less refined than some rivals

A vast number of optional driver features

Specs & Features

$32,790

price

162 hp @ 6500 rpm

horsepower

144 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm

torque

TBD

transmission

2.0L 4cyl 8A

engine

-

basic warranty

Overview

Cargo vans are a vital mode of transportation, and few are left in the industry begetting a suitable package of price and convenience. The Ford Transit Connect Cargo Van is also one of the selling cargo vans under $40,000 to buy in 2023. Highly characterized in city lanes, this ensures an applicable engine output adorning the true motive of the vehicle. Besides several benefits, this possesses multiple drawbacks commissioning a note that nothing is perfect in the world. A minute list of standard features just on the basic trim feels pathetic to observe. It can be configured in multiple ways depending upon the size of the wheelbase, a rear liftgate, or symmetrical rear doors. The manufacturer sends some aids including driver-assistive features, Adaptive Cruise Control, Apple CarPlay, and Android, but barely some of these are visible without extra charge.

It competes against the Mercedes-Benz Metris Cargo Van, the Ram Promaster City Cargo Van, and the GMC Savana Cargo Van.

Buying Advice

With several options available, we think the XLT model is a more suitable trim to select.  This brings a 6.5-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, lane departure warning, blindspot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, two USB ports, and dual-zone climate control. Plus it also maintains the features of the XL model that shows forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking., Bluetooth audio connectivity,  and manually adjustable mirrors.

Comparative Analysis against Competition

The van is remained untouched since last year. It also occupies the same two engine options, a shorter or longer wheelbase, and a passenger or cargo van format. It competes against the Mercedes-Benz Metris Cargo Van, the Ram Promaster City Cargo Van, and the GMC Savana Cargo Van.

Features
6.9/10

The van is just a medium of conveyance. Expecting much regarding the performance does not suit its significance. Ford brings two engine options with the Transit Connect cargo van. The standard 2.0L four-cylinder engine makes 162 horsepower and 144 pound-feet of torque. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, Ford sends it equipped only with an FWD platform. The second engine is a 2.5L engine that contains 169 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque. The first one can run a 0-60 mph mark in 10.1 seconds. Running at a speed of 79 mph, this cargo van can go a quarter-mile distance in 17.1 seconds. With the ordinary powered engine, one should not expect much from it. Light steering response sends good feedback when maneuvering in and around city lanes. Its small size helps it sneak into restricted pathways. Transmission shifts are fulfilling. On the highways, it is not fast. The first gear ratio of 4.69:1 goes down to 1.45 till the fifth and melts completely in 0.62:1 till the last gear. It is exceptionally great returning to reverse in just 2.96 seconds.

Models

2023 Ford Transit Connect Cargo Van

2023 Mercedes-Benz Metris Cargo Van

2023 Ram Promaster City Cargo Van

2023 GMC Savana Cargo Van

MSRP

$ 34,485

$ 41,495

$ 42,440

$ 39,895

Engine 

2.0L I4

2.0L Turbo I4

3.6L V6

4.3L V6

Drivetrain 

FWD

RWD

RWD

RWD

Transmission

8-speed automatic

9-speed automatic

9-speed automatic

8-speed automatic

Horsepower (hp @ rpm)

162 hp @ 6500 rpm

208 hp @ 5500 rpm

276 hp @ 6400 rpm

276 hp @ 5200 rpm

Torque (lb-ft @ rpm)

142 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm

258 lb-ft @ 1250 rpm

250 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm

298 lb-ft @ 3900 rpm

0-60 (seconds)

10.1 seconds

N/A

8.1 seconds

N/A

Quarter-mile (seconds)

17.1 seconds

N/A

N/A

N/A

Top speed 

110 mph

N/A

N/A

N/A

According to every price range, several cargo vans are available in the market. The new 2023 Ford Transit Connect is the most affordable cargo van to buy under $35k in 2023. Ram Promaster City is one of the most desirable cargo vans in 2023 with a V6 powertrain. Along with the GMC Savana, both are the most powerful cargo vans available for sale in 2023. Ford Transit Connect cargo van hp is the least in the comparison. Transit Connect's price is least of all and is the only cargo van with an FWD system. More budget-friendly than Mercedes-Benz Metris and Ram Promaster City, the GMC Savana fetches more power and better performance.

2023 Ford Transit Connect Cargo Van Ride and Handling 

Ahead of the name for the carriage and other commercial stuff, the ride quality is very up to the mark. The front seats are comfortable enough. Without much body roll, the Ford Transit Connect is a little composed around the turnings. It is very slow to accelerate. Merging straight into the highways from a basic city street is something the driver needs to take into account. A high-ride position preserves good visibility of the roads. When cruising around the corners, the cargo van transpires a turning radius of 38.3 ft. In the name of drive modes, Ford has not had much to offer. Unlike the regular PRNDS buttons, It equips a front-wheel drive mode, in which the vehicle only sends power to front wheels. The selectable shift drive mode offers a normal mode which is the daily driving mechanism for Ford Transit Connect. It tries giving a good amount of comfort with decent functionality. The Eco mode corresponding to any other car, by mitigating the performance helps this cargo van secure more miles of range. Standard 16-inch wheels move around the tires of dimensions P215/55HR16.

2023 Ford Transit Connect Cargo Van Braking System 

Even with the meagerest price in the segment, this cargo van strives to give a good braking performance. Given brakes run smoothly. They are on the mild side, neither too brutal, nor too creamy. An anti-lock braking system for all wheels helps prevent them from locking under panic or harsh braking conditions. Standard lane-departure warning on XLT alerts the driver when the vehicle starts drifting from the prescribed lane. Standard automatic emergency braking, when it detects, the brakes are used to gain an immediate stop, sends them to the floor to stop the van as soon as possible.

Models

2023 Ford Transit Connect Cargo Van

2023 Mercedes-Benz Metris Cargo Van

2023 Ram Promaster City Cargo Van

2023 GMC Savana Cargo Van

Brake rotors

(front) (in)

N/A

11.8 inches

11.8 inches

12.8 inches

Brake Rotors 

(back) (in)

N/A

11 inches

11.8 inches

13 inches

Curb weight

(lbs)

3581 bs.

4123 lbs.

4554 lbs.

5261 lbs.

70-0 (- ft.)

170 ft.

N/A

N/A.

N/A

Being the most affordable cargo van on sale, the Transit Connect is the least-weighted cargo van to consider in 2023. The newest GMC Savana is the heaviest cargo van. Ram Promaster City's curb weight is more than the Mercedes-Benz Metris curb weight and Ford Transit Connect cargo van curb weight. The largest brakes suited on the front and rear wheels of GMC Savana show the caliber to attain power from a V6 engine, very smoothly. On the rear wheels of Ram Promaster City, extensive brake clippers than Metris tends to stop cargo vans at a competitive braking distance. Taking curb weight and caliper caliber into account, a literate guess tells the Mercedes-Benz stopping faster than both Ram and GMC cargo vans.

Engine and Performance
8.4/10

Ford connects the performance nicely and efficiently. Depending upon the chosen trim and wheelbase levels, the fuel economy of the cargo van varies accordingly. It competes with some of the key competitors who are exempted from the fuel-economy standards. Selling a combined mpg of 25, the cargo van earns 24 city mpg and 27 highway mpg. When it is filled with 15.8 gallons of tank, the city range is 379.2 miles, the highway is 426.6 miles whereas the combined miles of range becomes 395.

Models

2023 Ford Transit Connect Cargo Van

2023 Mercedes-Benz Metris Cargo Van

2023 Ram Promaster City Cargo Van

2023 GMC Savana Cargo Van

MPG (city)

24 mpg

19 mpg

24 mpg

N/A

MPG (highway)

27 mpg

23 mpg

28 mpg

N/A

MPG (combined)

25 mpg

21 mpg

21 mpg

N/A

Fuel Capacity (gallons)

15.8 gallons

18.5 gallons

16.1 gallons

31 gallons

Range (City, highways, combined in miles)

379.2/426.6/395 miles

351.5/425.5/ 388.5 miles

386.4/450.8/338.1 miles

N/A

In terms of efficiency, the Ford Transit Connect cargo van has not more than one key competitor. The GMC Savan cargo van is exempted from the fule-economy standards and is the reason it is not sent for EPA ratings. In the city, the Ford and Ram procure equal mpg, but the Metris is behind with four mpg. Ram and Mercedes equalize the combined mpg, while the Ford concurs the highest on the table. GMC Savana carries the largest fuel tank. Ford shows the lowest fuel capacity.

Fuel Economy
7.0/10

Inside the Ford Transit Connect, the cabin feels entered into a primitive room with no cleaning for days. The dusty aesthetics inside the Transit Connect derives a bad impression. An average-looking layout focuses more on transporting carriages, rather than just showing off old-looking components embossed in it. Seats are average and provide some happy functions. Being a large-sized vehicle, the doors open pretty wide ensuring every passenger not just acclimates properly, but also load the cargo very smoothly. Below average cloth and vinyl upholstery used inside feels a bit inappropriate. Rear door panels gain the same outfit with adjustments for window control. Front panels do provide some relief when propagating switches for window movements. The front seats are comfortable enough. Things get wrong with second-row seats as they lack supportiveness and feel hard to sit.

Dash contains the same dusty textured hard-touch materials. It sends a 4.5-inch center display with XL and a 6.5-inch infotainment screen with XLT variants. Four largely visible AC vents suit the cute structure of the front. Few controls around the screen. A four-spoke steering column is what it is. It gains some buttons to alter the intensity of sound. A very short center armrest at the center console derives a little storage space. Gear selectors, Bolt-shaped AC and sound controls, and some more components are availed to give the vibe of typical old cars.

Models

2023 Ford Transit Connect Cargo Van

2023 Mercedes-Benz Metris Cargo Van

2023 Ram Promaster City Cargo Van

2023 GMC Savana Cargo Van

Passenger Capacity

2

2

1

2

First Row (Head/shoulder/legroom

46.9/57.6/41.5 inches

39.6/NA/35.8 inches

65.4/78.8/38.8 inches

40.8/68.8/41.3 inches

Cargo Bed width between wheel housing (in)

48.7 inches

50 inches

55.8 inches

52.4 inches

Cargo Bed Height (in.)

49.7 inches

55 inches

65.4 inches

55.8 inches

Cargo Space (cu,-ft)

123.2 cu.-ft

182.9 cu.-ft

N/A

239.4 cu.-ft

When searching inside, it finds the Transit Connect to be bringing the least cargo space when standing against the competitors. GMC Savana carries most of them. Front row seats are well-occupied, sending a ton of legroom than both Mercedes and Ram Promaster city.

Extracts of the interior –

  • Manual tilt and telescopic steering column 
  • Gauges 
  • Front cupholder 
  • Remote keyless entry 
  • Manual air conditioning
  • Glove box
  • Drive footrest 
  • Full cloth headliner 
  • Delay-off interior lighting 
  • Cargo space lights 

How intuitive is the 2023 Ford Transit Connect Cargo Van Infotainment system?

The basic model does not have anything to offer in the context of an infotainment system. It receives a basic 4.2-inch central display. The XLT variant covers a bigger 6.5-inch infotainment screen with Ford Sync 3 system. It offers the connectivity of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. XL brings a USB port and Bluetooth connectivity, while XLT brings two USB ports. Standard 4 speakers are given with XL, and one can easily estimate the sound quality. Other physical controls are within the reach of hands, and their strong making helps the commercial workers to control functions with ease. 

Extracts of the infotainment system –

  • FM Radio
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • 4.5-inch central display 
  • Speed-compensated volume control 
  • One USB port 
  • 4 speakers 
  • Aux audio input jack 
  • Streaming audio
  • Integrated roof antenna 
  • Radio data system

Interior
8.4/10

A very modest and uncluttered-looking cargo van, the Transit Connect brings a traditional look to cargo vehicles. A small bus-styled design differentiates it from other rivals. A nose-shaped front hood suits very well to an aggressive-looking front end. It surpasses a four-cylinder engine. Bonnet leads to some bent-looking structure that goes way over the headlights. The front hollow grille mated in black accents offers a pass to see the mechanics fitted inside. The front spoiler in clearcoat paints nothing that one will look into for some parking sensors-related materials. Front LED headlights function with daytime running lamps. The side profile lends body-colored door handles, black side window trims, and an outside rearview mirror with manual folding. Standard 16-wheels address the size of the van firmly. Ford sends tires of measurement P215/55HR16. Following in ten exterior shades, we prefer collecting cargo in Kapoor Red Metallic. The rear end is offered with rear symmetrical doors but can be personalized with a liftgate functioning mechanism. It sends LED brake lights on the walls, the Ford logo at the left-down corner, black fixed glass, and hardly visible exhaust tips.

Models

2023 Ford Transit Connect Cargo Van

2023 Mercedes-Benz Metris Cargo Van

2023 Ram Promaster City Cargo Van

2023 GMC Savana Cargo Van

Curb Weight (lbs)

3581 bs.

4123 lbs.

4554 lbs.

5261 lbs.

Length (in.)

174.2 inches

202.4 inches

195.4 inches

224 inches

Width (in.)

72.2 inches

75.9 inches

80.3 inches

79.2 inches

Height (in.)

72 inches

75.2 inches

91.7 inches

84.7 inches

Ground Clearance (in.)

5.4 inches

5.4 inches

7.7 inches

9.7 inches

Wheelbase (in.)

104.8 inches

126 inches

118 inches

135.1 inches

Maximum Towing Capacity (lbs.)

2000 lbs.

5000 lbs

2000 lbs.

10000 lbs

Maximum Payload Capacity (lbs.)

1140-1570 lbs

2150-2205 lbs

1883 lbs 

3060-4250 lbs

GMC Savana indicates the longest wheelbase and in every parameter, it is ahead of any other cargo van in comparison. Ford Transit Connect cargo van curb weight is less in the segment just like the wheelbase length. Mercedes Benz Metris has the same ground clearance offered on Ford. Ram Promaster City offers equal towing capacity as the towing capacity of the Ford Transit Connect Cargo Van.

Synopsis of the exterior design–

  • 16-inch wheels 
  • Steel spare wheel 
  • Fullsize spare tire mounted underbody 
  • Clearcoat paint 
  • Black front bumper 
  • Black bodyside moldings 
  • Rain-detecting variable intermittent wipers 
  • Light tinted glass 
  • Fully galvanized steel panels 
  • Auto on-off aero composite headlamps

Exterior
8.4/10

A very modest and uncluttered-looking cargo van, the Transit Connect brings a traditional look to cargo vehicles. A small bus-styled design differentiates it from other rivals. A nose-shaped front hood suits very well to an aggressive-looking front end. It surpasses a four-cylinder engine. Bonnet leads to some bent-looking structure that goes way over the headlights. The front hollow grille mated in black accents offers a pass to see the mechanics fitted inside. The front spoiler in clearcoat paints nothing that one will look into for some parking sensors-related materials. Front LED headlights function with daytime running lamps. The side profile lends body-colored door handles, black side window trims, and an outside rearview mirror with manual folding. Standard 16-wheels address the size of the van firmly. Ford sends tires of measurement P215/55HR16. Following in ten exterior shades, we prefer collecting cargo in Kapoor Red Metallic. The rear end is offered with rear symmetrical doors but can be personalized with a liftgate functioning mechanism. It sends LED brake lights on the walls, the Ford logo at the left-down corner, black fixed glass, and hardly visible exhaust tips.

Models

2023 Ford Transit Connect Cargo Van

2023 Mercedes-Benz Metris Cargo Van

2023 Ram Promaster City Cargo Van

2023 GMC Savana Cargo Van

Curb Weight (lbs)

3581 bs.

4123 lbs.

4554 lbs.

5261 lbs.

Length (in.)

174.2 inches

202.4 inches

195.4 inches

224 inches

Width (in.)

72.2 inches

75.9 inches

80.3 inches

79.2 inches

Height (in.)

72 inches

75.2 inches

91.7 inches

84.7 inches

Ground Clearance (in.)

5.4 inches

5.4 inches

7.7 inches

9.7 inches

Wheelbase (in.)

104.8 inches

126 inches

118 inches

135.1 inches

Maximum Towing Capacity (lbs.)

2000 lbs.

5000 lbs

2000 lbs.

10000 lbs

Maximum Payload Capacity (lbs.)

1140-1570 lbs

2150-2205 lbs

1883 lbs 

3060-4250 lbs

GMC Savana indicates the longest wheelbase and in every parameter, it is ahead of any other cargo van in comparison. Ford Transit Connect cargo van curb weight is less in the segment just like the wheelbase length. Mercedes Benz Metris has the same ground clearance offered on Ford. Ram Promaster City offers equal towing capacity as the towing capacity of the Ford Transit Connect Cargo Van.

Synopsis of the exterior design–

  • 16-inch wheels 
  • Steel spare wheel 
  • Fullsize spare tire mounted underbody 
  • Clearcoat paint 
  • Black front bumper 
  • Black bodyside moldings 
  • Rain-detecting variable intermittent wipers 
  • Light tinted glass 
  • Fully galvanized steel panels 
  • Auto on-off aero composite headlamps 

Safety
7.0/10

The car gains overall safety ratings of four out of five stars from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Some driver aids and safety features are offered by Ford. Standard Forward Collision warnings alert the driver of a speculated crash and apply the brake in foolproof situations. Stability control helps prevent loss of control in curves and emergency steering maneuvers by stabilizing your car when it begins to veer off your intended path. Traction controls support the vehicle boosting traction in slippery or untextured road conditions. Automatic emergency braking helps stop the car ASAP when it detects the brakes are used to acquire a sudden stoppage. 

Salient features of the safety system –

  • Standard forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking 
  • Optional blindspot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert 
  • Optional lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist
  • Dual front side-mounted airbags 
  • Front head airbag
  • Airbag occupancy sensor 
  • ABS and driveline traction control 
  • Stability control
  • Tire pressure monitoring 
  • Auto delay off headlamps 

Competition
7.0/10

2023 Ford Transit Connect Cargo Van vs. 2023 Mercedes-Benz Metris Cargo Van

Mercedes is extra expensive and has more power. Both carry the same ground clearance, but Metris brings additional towing and payload capacities Ford Transit Connect is a more fuel-efficient vehicle. No matter if it is a cargo van, Mercedes sends more sophistication and a good vibe with it. Ford Transit, targeting low-income people searching for an entry-level cargo van, falls behind the Mercedes-Benz Metris.

2023 Ford Transit Connect Cargo Van vs. 2023 Ram Promaster City Cargo Van

Ram Promaster city is the most expensive and holds a longer bed inside it. With less money Transit sends an FWD drive system, and the Ram shares RWD. Torquier Ram shows extra towing and payload capacities. Based on a longer wheelbase, it is heavier. Ram is a more good-looking cargo van and offers extra driver aids.

2023 Ford Transit Connect Cargo Van vs.2023 GMC Savana Cargo Van

GMC costs a little extra and brings a much more exciting payload and towing figures. Though it is not applicable to fuel economy numbers. Ford transmits more driver-assistive features but lacks in hp and torque productivity. Ford Transit Connect has gained a four-star safety rating, while GMC Savana has not been sent to NHTSA for testing.

Final Verdict
8.4/10

This Ford Transmit is good for workers looking for an entry-level cargo van for commercial purposes. It is limited to speed. The seats are comfortable. Driving expressions are convincing. Fuel efficiency is better than rivals. Decent driver aids are some of the key features to consider. The complaining infotainment system, expensive safety aids, lower payload ng capacities, and leaked-looking interior are some complaining things. Wanting a decently prosperous interior with more ability to carry cargo, the Mercedes Metris is an option. Ram Promaster City renders a huge power upgrade with its formal V6 engine. GMC Savana brings the segment-leading payload and towing capacities but lacks a few features.

Trims

    XL
    $32,790 onwards
    • Engine: 2.0L 4cyl 8A
    • Horsepower: 162 hp @ 6500 rpm hp
    • Torque: 144 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm
    • 0-60 mph: TBD sec
    • Top Speed: TBD mph
    • Fuel Economy Combined: 25 mpg
    XLT
    $34,965 onwards
    • Engine: 2.0L 4cyl 8A
    • Horsepower: 162 hp @ 6500 rpm hp
    • Torque: 144 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm
    • 0-60 mph: TBD sec
    • Top Speed: TBD mph
    • Fuel Economy Combined: 25 mpg
    Titanium
    $38,560 onwards
    • Engine: 2.0L 4cyl 8A
    • Horsepower: 162 hp @ 6500 rpm hp
    • Torque: 144 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm
    • 0-60 mph: TBD sec
    • Top Speed: TBD mph
    • Fuel Economy Combined: 26 mpg

2023 Ford Transit Connect vs competitor's MPG

    Car Name
    MPG City
    MPG Highway
    MPG Combined
    Fuel Tank Capacity
    Source
    24 mpg26 mpg25 mpg15.8 gal. -

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    Horsepower : 660 hp @ 6100 rpm

    MPG Combined : 14 mpg

    0-60 : 3 sec

    #1

    2023 Ford F-150

    Horsepower : 400 hp @ 6000 rpm

    MPG Combined : 20 mpg

    0-60 : 6.2 sec

    #2

    2023 Ford Expedition

    Horsepower : 380 hp @ 5000 rpm

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    #3

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    #4

    2023 Ford Mustang

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    #5

    2023 Ford Bronco

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    #7

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    MPG Combined : 17 mpg

    #8

    2023 Ford Ranger

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    #9

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