New Ford Transit and Tourneo Connect
Ford's highly successful Transit Connect and Tourneo Connect have undergone extensive changes as part of Ford's new commercial vehicle line-up being launched this year.Major improvements include the introduction of Stage IV compliant 1.8-litre Duratorq TDCi engines with engine power outputs of 75PS and 90PS. In addition there will be a new 110PS engine variant available for the first time and with class-leading torque.
Reflecting customer needs, the Transit Connect and Tourneo Connect ranges now consist exclusively of diesel models. The highly acclaimed 1.8-litre Duratorq TDCi engine is also used across several other models in the Ford car range.
Gary Whittam, commercial vehicles director, Ford of Britain said: "Users want a no-nonsense vehicle, which speaks for them and what their business represents. The Transit Connect, which won the prestigious International Van of the Year title in 2003, ideally fits that bill; it's smart, tough and stylish. The changes we are now announcing will help to keep Transit Connect the van that quite literally, keeps on delivering."
Ford believes that a light commercial vehicle doesn't have to be dull or basic. So users will be delighted that both the interior and exterior of the Transit Connect and Tourneo Connect have been improved, and the vehicle's in-car entertainment has been significantly upgraded.
The long wheelbase Tourneo Connect LX is now available in five- and, for the first time, eight-seat versions. It features a chrome grille finish and body-coloured bumpers.
The Duratorq TDCi 1.8-litre Diesel Engine
The changes to the 1.8-litre Duratorq TDCi engine include a new combustion system and new fuel injectors which help provide a smoother, more responsive and quieter drive. The use of Ford's acclaimed 1.8-litre Duratorq TDCi diesel engine exclusively across the range means all models have the same robust powertrain, which is high on refinement and low on noise levels.
The engine features an ultra-high pressure common-rail direct injection system, which provides the driver with a smoother and more responsive power delivery.
The new 110PS version is one of the most powerful engines available in its sector, and its 280Nm of torque is class leading – making it ideal for customers who regularly carry full cargo loads.
The existing 75PS and 90PS versions have also undergone extensive changes, and boast reduced emissions – without any loss of performance or fuel economy. The 75PS version is now upgraded to include state-of-the-art common-rail TDCi technology.
Exterior and Interior changes
Transit Connect and Tourneo Connect entry models
All models feature a new front bumper and distinctive two-bar grille, which allow excellent airflow for efficient engine cooling. The Ford oval badge has also moved from the bonnet down onto the new grille.
Interior changes include a modified instrument panel and centre stack, now finished in Steel Blue. The new interior trim features 'Lozenge' fabric, which is not only harder wearing but more contemporary in look and feel.
The second row seating option features ‘saddle’ headrests (Tourneo Connect and five-seat vans) allowing easy folding and better visibility.
Long wheelbase Tourneo Connect LX
The long-wheelbase Tourneo Connect LX features a two-tone body colour front bumper, body colour rear bumpers and end caps, a chrome grille and new wheel trims on 15in steel wheels. Available as an option are stylish new 15in alloy wheels. An optional extra row of rear passenger seats is now available.
In Car Entertainment
There are several audio systems available for the Transit Connect and Tourneo Connect, and CD players are now included to replace cassette players where they were fitted. The system features 24 pre-set stations and a single slot CD player. The sophisticated unit communicates with other electronic systems in the car. The system can, for instance, display the same time as shown in main instrument cluster.
The top-of-the-range system features a six-CD changer, loadable through a single slot. It also has 24 pre-set radio stations, but has a larger display screen.
Colours
Exterior: The Transit Connect and Tourneo Connect will be immediately recognisable on the roads thanks to the new eye-catching range of colours. Frozen White, Blue Ambition and Sublime, Plum Blush and Tonic are available on all Transit Connect models, and the Tourneo Connect entry-level model. The Tourneo Connect LX comes in a special range of distinctive shades: Caramella, Willow, Tonic and Moondust Silver.
Bumpers: The Transit Connect and Tourneo Connect entry models feature new bumpers moulded in a stylish Torque Grey, which is lighter than the colour on the current vehicle. The Tourneo Connect LX comes with body coloured bumpers as standard.
Interior: The ambience inside the Transit Connect and Tourneo Connect has been significantly improved thanks to colour choice. The Transit Connect, the Tourneo Connect entry model and Tourneo Connect LX now have interiors finished in classy Dark Pewter.
Transit Tough
Gary Whittam, commercial vehicles director, Ford of Britain knows the secret of the vehicle's success: "Transit and Tourneo Connect are a great success story – we now sell more than 24,000 a year. Its strength comes from the fact that, unlike its competitors, it's engineered from the ground up to commercial vehicle dependability levels. This makes it the natural choice for commercial and personal use customers that are looking for rock solid dependability."