Ford Transit Connect L2: The Ultimate Medium Van Review

The Ford Transit Connect L2 stands out as a versatile and capable medium van, offering businesses a reliable solution for their transportation needs. This longer wheelbase version of the popular Transit Connect provides enhanced cargo capacity and functionality, making it an attractive option for those seeking a balance between compact dimensions and generous load space. With its robust design and efficient powertrain options, the Transit Connect L2 has gained recognition in the competitive commercial vehicle market. Source

In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore the key features that set the Ford Transit Connect L2 apart from its competitors. From its exterior design and dimensions to its performance and fuel efficiency, we’ll examine what makes this van a top choice for many businesses. We’ll also delve into the interior features, technology offerings, and the van’s practicality for various applications, including its potential as a camper conversion. Whether you’re in the market for a new commercial vehicle or simply curious about the capabilities of modern medium vans, this review aims to give you a thorough understanding of the Ford Transit Connect L2. See all Ford Transit Connect for sale

Exterior Design and Dimensions

The Ford Transit Connect L2 boasts a versatile and practical design that caters to the needs of businesses requiring a medium-sized van. This long-wheelbase version offers enhanced cargo capacity while maintaining a compact footprint, making it an ideal choice for urban environments and tight spaces. See all Ford Transit Connect Lease Deals.

Body Styling

The Transit Connect L2 features a sleek and modern exterior design that combines functionality with aesthetics. Its overall length measures 4,825mm, providing ample space for cargo without compromising manoeuvrability. The van stands at 1,859mm tall and 1,967mm wide with folded mirrors, allowing it to navigate through narrow streets and parking spaces with ease. See all Ford Vans for sale Ford offers the Transit Connect in various series designs, each with distinct exterior features. The base model comes equipped with 16″ steel wheels and a kerbside load door. As you move up the range, additional styling elements are introduced: See Ford Connect Camper van

• The Trend series adds Sparkle Silver wheel covers, body-coloured front bumper, and heated door mirrors.
• The Limited variant features 16″ alloy wheels, body-coloured bodyside mouldings, and auto-fold door mirrors.
• The Sport model boasts 17″ alloy wheels with an Absolute Black finish and a sports styling kit.
• The Active series includes 17″ machined alloy wheels, increased ride height, and a Carbon Black front grille.

Cargo Space Measurements

The Transit Connect L2 offers impressive cargo space, making it a standout choice in the medium van segment. The load area dimensions are as follows: See Ford Transit Connect 2025

• Maximum load length: 2,152mm at floor level
• Internal height: 1,263mm from floor to roof
• Load width: 1,496mm at floor height
• Total load volume: 3.6 cubic metres (3.6m³)

These measurements allow the L2 version to accommodate two Euro pallets, with the added advantage of loading one through its side door. For businesses requiring even more versatility, the load-through bulkhead (standard on Trend trim) enables the transportation of items up to 3,400mm in length.

Door Configurations

The Transit Connect L2 offers flexible door configurations to suit various loading requirements:

• A single side loading door comes as standard on all models.
• The rear door opening measures 1,249mm in width and 1,114mm in height, providing ample access to the cargo area.
• The side load door aperture on the L2 model is 833mm wide, significantly larger than the 615mm opening on the shorter L1 variant.
• A second side loading door is optional on most variants, enhancing accessibility and loading flexibility.

These door configurations, combined with the van’s dimensions and load capacity, make the Ford Transit Connect L2 a highly practical choice for businesses seeking a balance between size and functionality. Its thoughtful design ensures efficient loading and unloading, contributing to improved productivity in daily operations.

Performance and Efficiency

Engine Options

The Ford Transit Connect L2 offers a range of efficient engine options to suit various business needs. The latest Euro 6-compliant 1.5 EcoBlue diesel engine is available in three power outputs: 75PS, 100PS, and 120PS. All versions come with a six-speed manual gearbox as standard, while the 100PS and 120PS variants can be equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission for those who prefer a smoother driving experience. For businesses that primarily operate in urban environments or have light-duty requirements, Ford also offers a 1.0 EcoBoost 100PS turbo petrol engine. This option comes with a six-speed manual gearbox and is available in more basic trim levels. Although diesel remains the preferred choice for most van buyers, the petrol engine can be a sensible option for specific use cases.

Fuel Economy

Ford has made significant efforts to enhance the fuel efficiency of the Transit Connect, positioning it as one of the most economical small vans in the market. The 1.5-litre EcoBlue diesel engines have been designed to deliver improved real-world efficiency compared to their predecessors. According to Ford, these newer engines are up to 12% more efficient than the older 1.6-litre diesels they replaced. In WLTP-rated fuel economy tests, the diesel variants showcase impressive figures:

• The 75PS, 100PS, and 120PS versions all achieve similar economy ratings, ranging from 61-63mpg.
• When equipped with the 8-speed automatic transmission, the 100PS and 120PS variants return 57-58mpg.

The 1.0 EcoBoost petrol engine, while less economical, still offers reasonable efficiency for its class:

• The L1 (shorter wheelbase) version manages a best of 46.3mpg.
• The L2 (longer wheelbase) variant records a high of 45.6mpg.

To further enhance fuel efficiency, Ford has incorporated several technologies across the Transit Connect range. These include:

• Active grille shutters
• Start-stop system
• Gear-shift indicator
• Ford EcoSelect driving mode (activated by a button)

Optional features such as speed limiters and Accelerator Control (for diesel manual models) are also available to help businesses optimise fuel consumption.

Driving Experience

The Ford Transit Connect L2 has earned a reputation for its car-like driving dynamics, making it one of the most enjoyable vans to drive in its class. This impressive handling is largely due to its running gear, which is shared with the Ford Focus Mk3 passenger car. Key aspects of the driving experience include:

• Accurate and well-weighted steering
• Impressive body control, reducing roll in corners
• Responsive and composed handling
• Firm but supple suspension that effectively absorbs bumps without becoming harsh

The diesel engines, particularly in the top-spec 120PS guise, provide strong performance. The six-speed manual gearbox enhances flexibility, while the optional eight-speed automatic transmission offers smooth gear changes for those who prefer a more relaxed driving experience. Overall, the Ford Transit Connect L2 delivers a blend of efficiency and driving pleasure that sets it apart in the medium van segment. Its range of engine options, impressive fuel economy, and refined driving characteristics make it a compelling choice for businesses seeking a versatile and economical commercial vehicle.

Interior Features and Technology

Cabin Comfort

The Ford Transit Connect L2 offers a well-crafted cabin designed with driver comfort in mind. The driving position is fundamentally good, with ample adjustment in the seats. Base models feature four-way adjustable seats, while all other trims boast eight-way adjustability. The steering wheel is also adjustable, allowing drivers to find their optimal position. The dashboard layout may divide opinion, with some finding it ergonomic and appealing, while others might perceive it as cluttered. However, it represents a significant improvement over previous models. The deep dashboard and high windscreen can create a bubble-like sensation, which may take some getting used to. Seating options include a choice between two or three front seats. The dual passenger bench, previously standard on higher trims, is now an optional extra. While it allows for three-person seating, the middle position offers limited knee room, making it suitable only for short journeys. However, this bench provides additional storage space underneath and can be combined with a load-through bulkhead for carrying long, thin items.

Infotainment System

The Transit Connect L2 comes equipped with Ford’s latest infotainment technology. Higher-spec models feature a 6-inch colour touchscreen, while Trend vans have a 3.5-inch version. The top-of-the-line models include satellite navigation as standard. Ford’s SYNC 3 system is a standout feature, offering seamless smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This system allows for easy control of phone calls, text messaging, music, and navigation via the touchscreen or voice commands. Key features of the SYNC 3 system include:

1. Voice-controlled management of phone, music, apps, and navigation
2. Text message read-aloud functionality
3. Emergency Assistance for contacting emergency services
4. AppLink for controlling SYNC-compatible apps
5. Multi-touch ‘swipe’ and ‘pinch-to-zoom’ gestures on the colour touchscreen

Driver Assistance Features

The Transit Connect L2 is equipped with a range of advanced driver assistance technologies to enhance safety and convenience. These include:

1. Intelligent Speed Assist with Traffic Sign Recognition: Automatically detects speed limits and adjusts the vehicle’s maximum speed accordingly.
2. Distance Indication: Displays the distance to the vehicle ahead and provides visual warnings if the gap becomes too small.
3. Cruise Control with Adjustable Speed Limiter: Maintains a set speed and allows for setting a maximum speed limit.
4. Active Park Assist: Helps with parallel and perpendicular parking by automatically steering the vehicle into suitable spaces.
5. Parking Distance Sensors: Provides audible warnings to assist with parking and manoeuvring in tight spaces.
6. Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection: Monitors proximity to other vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians, providing warnings and pre-charging brakes if necessary.
7. Lane-Keeping System: Includes Lane-Keeping Alert and Lane-Keeping Aid to help maintain the vehicle’s position within lane markings.

These features work together to create a safer, more comfortable driving experience, allowing drivers to focus on the road ahead while benefiting from advanced technological support.

Practicality and Versatility

The Ford Transit Connect L2 stands out as a highly practical and versatile medium van, offering businesses a range of options to suit their specific needs. With its thoughtful design and impressive capabilities, this van has become a popular choice for various industries.

Load Capacity

The Transit Connect L2, being the longer wheelbase variant, boasts impressive load capacity. It measures 4,825mm in overall length, with a height of 1,859mm and a width of 1,967mm. The load area offers a maximum length of 2,152mm at floor level, an internal height of 1,263mm from floor to roof, and a width of 1,496mm at floor height. This translates to a total load volume of 3.6 cubic metres (3.6m³), making it significantly more spacious than its smaller counterpart, the L1 model. One of the standout features of the Transit Connect L2 is the optional load-through bulkhead. This clever addition allows for the transportation of items up to 3,400mm in length, effectively increasing the van’s versatility. It’s particularly useful for businesses that frequently need to carry longer items such as pipes or planks. The van’s rear door aperture measures 1,248mm in width and 1,156mm in height, providing ample access to the cargo area. The side load door aperture is 839mm wide, offering convenient loading options from multiple angles.

Towing Capabilities

While the Ford Transit Connect L2 is primarily designed for urban deliveries and light cargo transport, it also offers respectable towing capabilities. The towing capacity varies depending on the specific engine and configuration, but most models can handle a braked trailer weight of up to 1,350kg. For instance, the 1.5 TDCi 100 Automatic variant, available from 2018 to 2023, has a towing capacity of 1,350kg for a braked trailer. The more powerful 1.5 TDCi 120 models, both manual and automatic, can tow up to 1,500kg. It’s worth noting that all models can typically manage the maximum 750kg weight allowed for an unbraked trailer.

Customization Options

The Ford Transit Connect L2 offers a range of customization options to enhance its practicality and adapt to specific business needs. These include:

1. Racking Systems: Various racking and shelving units are available for both the nearside (NS) and offside (OS) of the van, allowing for efficient organisation of tools and equipment.
2. Roof Carriers: Additional roof storage options are available for businesses requiring extra carrying capacity.
3. Tow Bars: Both detachable and fixed swan neck tow bars can be fitted, enhancing the van’s versatility for towing.
4. Electrical Upgrades: Plug-and-play towing electrics in both 7-pin and 13-pin configurations are available, simplifying the process of connecting trailers.
5. LED Light Bar Integration: For improved visibility and safety, LED light bar integration kits can be installed.

These customization options, combined with the van’s inherent practicality and versatility, make the Ford Transit Connect L2 a highly adaptable vehicle suitable for a wide range of business applications.

Conclusion

The Ford Transit Connect L2 has proven itself as a versatile and capable medium van, offering a blend of practicality and efficiency that has an impact on various business sectors. Its thoughtful design, from the spacious cargo area to the comfortable cabin, shows Ford’s commitment to meeting the needs of modern businesses. The van’s range of engine options, impressive fuel economy, and refined driving characteristics make it a strong contender in the competitive commercial vehicle market. To wrap up, the Transit Connect L2’s combination of performance, technology, and customization options positions it as a top choice for businesses looking to optimise their operations. Whether it’s to handle urban deliveries, transport equipment, or serve as a mobile workspace, this van offers the flexibility and reliability that many companies seek. As the commercial vehicle landscape continues to evolve, the Ford Transit Connect L2 stands ready to adapt and meet the changing demands of businesses across various industries.

FAQs

What are the typical issues with a Ford Transit Connect? A prevalent issue with the Ford Transit Connect involves the transmission. The transmission plays a crucial role in moving power from the engine to the wheels, and any faults can lead to significant declines in performance. How dependable is the Ford Transit Connect? The Ford Transit Connect is considered a dependable cargo van, earning a reliability score of 3.0 out of 5.0 from RepairPal. According to CarEdge.com, it holds a resale value of approximately £28,573, with a depreciation of 27% after five years. What distinguishes the Ford Transit Connect L1 from the L2? The main difference between the L1 and L2 models of the Ford Transit Connect lies in their length. The L1 is a short-wheelbase van, whereas the L2 is a long-wheelbase version, offering an additional 400mm, or 40cm, in length. Is the Ford Transit Connect a good choice? The Transit Connect, while not the most fuel-efficient in its class and equipped with a less powerful base engine, is nonetheless a versatile and useful vehicle. It’s easy to handle, though the ride can be somewhat bouncy due to its suspension setup.