2018 Ford Transit and Transit Connect Review

What's New for the 2018 Ford Transit?

When it comes to the 2018 Ford Transit and Transit Connect, a van isn't just a van anymore. These versatile vehicles allow businesses to get just as much power and space as they need. Between the two, shoppers have many size choices and configurations.

Why do you need a van? If it is to haul big loads, the 2018 Ford Transit is right for your business. If you have a load, but it's never large, the Transit Connect makes more sense. If you want to move a family or take care of clients in style, the Transit Connect Wagon seats up to seven. The five-seat version is a good fit for a team of workers who are also moving a product. If moving people is your business, the Transit passenger van can seat a crowd. Transit vans have a high-roof version that's good for workers or passengers because it gives them plenty of head clearance.

Transit & Transit Connect Highlights

The Transit Connect comes in XL and XLT models. Standards include power windows and keyless entry. You can get a rearview camera and Sync 3 touchscreen on the XLT trim. This edition adds standard heated side mirrors, a Ford MyKey, and cruise control. If you need something fancier, the Transit Connect Wagon is offered in a Titanium edition with leather seats and dual-zone automatic climate control. You can also opt for a roof rack or a panoramic sunroof. The back can be a hatch or split doors. With two- or three-row models, it's easy to fold the seat into the floor in one quick motion. The third row slides forward, providing extra space for cargo. It also folds flat, which extends the flat cargo floor.

A full-size van, the Transit comes with two different wheelbases, three roof heights, and three different body lengths. Interior design is more functional, but air conditioning and power accessories are on the list. Drivers will appreciate Bluetooth with their radio system. The Sync 3 touchscreen, a CD player, and USB ports are available. Top cargo volume is 487 cu.ft. To make it easy to load, the rear cargo doors can swing out up to 270 degrees. With the high-roof edition, workers can load items as tall as 74 inches. Extended length editions can seat 15 people and provide a large cargo hold for luggage.

Engine & Transmission

To keep the Transit Connect moving, it has a smart four-cylinder powertrain. The 169-horsepower engine is controlled by front-wheel drive and a six-speed automatic transmission. Drivers will enjoy nicely weighted steering and responsive handling. Fuel economy is 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway, saving businesses money every day. It's one of the many reasons that the Transit Connect is chosen for work fleets.

The Transit must work harder, and it gets tougher engines that help it do just that. A turbo diesel generates 350 lb-ft of torque. There's also a traditional V6 that spits out 275 horsepower and 260 lb-ft. A turbo V6 spits out 310 horsepower and 400 lb-ft. of torque.

Safety Ensured

Ford takes safety seriously, and its commercial fleet is no exception. Drivers and front seat passengers are covered by airbags. A rearview camera is on the menu. You also benefit from extensive traction and stability controls which help keep the van out of harm's way.

Now that you know more, it should be clearer whether the Transit Connect or the Transit is right for your business. To get the right match, talk to the knowledgeable staff at Serramonte Ford.