2020 Ford Transit Connect Diesel
What’s new
- Rearview camera and automatic headlights are now standard
- Forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking are now standard
- Part of the second Ford Transit Connect generation introduced in 2014
Pros & Cons
- Extremely practical yet compact
- Comprehensive suite of optional driver assistance technology
- Available in a variety of configurations
- Engines don't have an overabundance of power
- Not as passenger-friendly as a minivan or as utilitarian as some rival cargo vans
2020 Ford Transit Connect Review
The 2020 Ford Transit Connect offers an alternative to full-size commercial vans for anyone who needs the utility of a van in a smaller package. Its car-based platform makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, especially in crowded downtown areas with challenging parking.
The Transit Connect is offered in two body styles, three trim levels, two wheelbase lengths, and a number of options to tailor the van to individual uses. There's a short-wheelbase passenger wagon that can seat five or a long-wheelbase model for seven passengers. In its highest trim level, the van can be equipped with leather seats, rear climate controls and a touchscreen-based navigation system. A four-cylinder powertrain provides the motivation, but sadly it's not one of the zesty EcoBoost units.
For 2020, the new van offers more standard features to make the driver's life a little easier, including rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlights and a rearview camera, as well as forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking. Ford's new suite of advanced driver aids, Co-Pilot360, also comes standard on the XLT and Titanium trims and is optional on XL models.
Besides offering utility, the Transit Connect cuts a sharp and stylish figure that stands out from the boxier profiles of its competitors. And the cabin offers comfortable front seats and a modern, well-organized design. For larger jobs, you'll want the Ford Transit Van. And while the smaller Connect isn't as refined as a traditional family minivan, it nonetheless strikes a pleasing balance between commercial and passenger needs.
Our verdict
7.0 / 10How does it drive?
7.5The downside? The van is woefully slow to accelerate. It took a leisurely 10.6 seconds to reach 60 mph in our testing. The Ford has enough zip to dash between city stoplights but gets winded quickly. Highway merging and passing require planning.
How comfortable is it?
7.0The van's primary controls are simple to discern and operate. It takes a while to heat and cool the large cabin, but the climate system works well once at speed. The seat heaters offer five levels of intensity, though none is particularly warm.
How’s the interior?
7.5There's plenty of headroom, and it's easy to step in and out of the Transit Connect thanks to tall and wide door openings. Accessing the third row is similarly easy. Removing the rear seats makes for voluminous cargo utility. But as a six-passenger van, the Transit Connect isn't especially roomy. Limited rear legroom in the immovable second row makes it less people-friendly than a regular minivan.
How’s the tech?
7.0The menus are easy to navigate and the voice controls are sophisticated, offering an easy way to issue commands with a minimum of distraction. Sync 3 also offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, but it's only available on the Titanium trim. There's only one USB port, although you could use one of the 12-volt ports to power a USB charger if you wanted. The four-speaker stereo won't impress anyone either, but it does the job.
How’s the storage?
5.5The Ford lags behind its Mercedes and Ram rivals with a 1,620-pound payload capacity, and its 2,000-pound towing maximum is only average. Child safety seat installation is problematic. You'll be able to install a safety seat in the second row, but the seats don't slide, and the car seat anchors are hard to access.
How economical is it?
7.0Is it a good value?
7.0Wildcard
7.5With driving manners similar to Ford's Escape SUV, minus the punchy engine, the Transit Connect doesn't feel as large or ungainly as most of today's vans do. That's a good thing on tight roads, but it won't be as fun on long drives.
Which Transit Connect does Edmunds recommend?
2020 Ford Transit Connect models
The 2020 Ford Transit Connect is available in both cargo- and passenger-van configurations. The cargo van is offered in XL and XLT trims in either the short- (SWB) or long-wheelbase (LWB) version. Passenger vans also come in two wheelbase options and are available in XL (LWB only), XLT and Titanium trims.
The XL and XLT trims in both cargo or passenger configurations offer a choice of a rear liftgate or rear doors that swing open 180 degrees. All vans are front-wheel-drive; all-wheel drive isn't available.
The XL cargo van comes standard with two-passenger seating, a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (169 horsepower, 171 lb-ft of torque), an eight-speed automatic transmission, 16-inch steel wheels, black bumpers and body trim, rain-sensing wipers, automatic headlights, a rearview camera, and pre-collision assist, which includes forward collision warning with pedestrian detection and automatic emergency braking.
Interior comforts include air conditioning, power front windows, a height-adjustable driver's seat, vinyl upholstery, vinyl floor covering, and a four-speaker sound system with Bluetooth and one USB port.
The XLT cargo van is equipped with foglights, body-colored bumpers and body trim, heated power mirrors, and cruise control. Inside, the XLT gets cloth upholstery, floor mats, cruise control, wireless smartphone charging, two USB ports, satellite radio, and the Sync 3 interface with a 6.5-inch touchscreen.
The XL passenger van supplements the base XL equipment with power second-row windows, a rear window defroster, cruise control, rear parking sensors, second- and third-row fold-flat seats, six cupholders (two in each row), and cloth upholstery.
The XLT passenger van, available in short- and long-wheelbase versions, adds the XLT cargo van's many extras along with dual-zone climate control and a nine-speaker sound system.
The Titanium passenger van also offers the option of short- or long-wheelbase versions and adds 16-inch alloy wheels, xenon headlights, LED foglights, power-folding mirrors, remote ignition, keyless entry and ignition, a locking glovebox, heated front seats, a six-way power driver's seat, leather upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, integrated navigation, and HD radio.
The new Co-Pilot360 bundle of active driver safety features is included with XLT and Titanium trims (optional on XL versions) and comes with automatic high beams, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning and lane keeping assist.
Sponsored cars related to the Transit Connect
Features & Specs
| Wagon XLT 4dr Minivan w/Rear 180 Degree Doors SWB, Prod. End 06/19 1.5L 4cyl Turbodiesel 8A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $27,755 |
| MPG | N/A city / N/A hwy |
| Seating | Seats 5 |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Horsepower | N/A |
| Wagon XLT 4dr Minivan w/Rear Liftgate SWB, Prod. End 06/19 1.5L 4cyl Turbodiesel 8A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $27,755 |
| MPG | N/A city / N/A hwy |
| Seating | Seats 5 |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Horsepower | N/A |
| Wagon Titanium SWB 4dr Minivan w/Prod. End 06/19 1.5L 4cyl Turbodiesel 8A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $30,870 |
| MPG | N/A city / N/A hwy |
| Seating | Seats 5 |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Horsepower | N/A |
Safety
Our experts’ favorite Transit Connect safety features:
- Pedestrian Detection
- Detects pedestrians in your path and triggers forward collision warnings. Can automatically brake if necessary.
- Side Wind Stabilization
- Helps correct for strong crosswinds to keep the vehicle going in its intended direction.
- Automatic Emergency Braking
- Helps to prevent or mitigate an accident by automatically applying the brakes when an obstacle is detected.
Ford Transit Connect vs. the competition
Ford Transit Connect vs. Ram Promaster City
Like the Transit Connect, the ProMaster is a compact van available in cargo and passenger configurations. The Ram cargo van offers more engine power and a higher payload capacity than the Ford, so it's a more obvious choice for drivers who need a van to do regular heavy lifting. But the Ram's handling is less buttoned-down than the Ford's, especially around turns and corners. And the Ford's interior is a grade above the ProMaster's more utilitarian cabin.
Ford Transit Connect vs. Nissan NV200
The NV200 is a great budget pick for buyers who simply need good utility without frills. The NV200's low load floor makes cargo loading easy, it's very maneuverable in the right spaces, and its four-cylinder engine delivers good fuel economy. Compared to the Transit Connect, though, the NV200 makes less power and offers less cargo space and payload capacity. Its interior is also plain and no-nonsense. But for many buyers, the NV200 will be enough, and it starts at a lower price than the Ford.
Ford Transit Connect vs. Mercedes-Benz Metris
Only in the work-van segment can you upgrade from a Ford to a Mercedes-Benz for just a couple thousand dollars more. But the Metris represents an excellent value in the van segment regardless of the badge in the grille. It's a large van, larger than the Ford, but not quite full-size. What the Metris gives up in maneuverability to its more compact rivals, it makes up for with a large cargo area, high payload and towing ratings, and interior quality that punches above its weight for a work van. The downsides? Its turbo engine requires premium fuel, so not only does the Metris cost more initially, but its costs at the pump will add up, too.
FAQ
Is the Ford Transit Connect a good car?
What's new in the 2020 Ford Transit Connect?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2020 Ford Transit Connect:
- Rearview camera and automatic headlights are now standard
- Forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking are now standard
- Part of the second Ford Transit Connect generation introduced in 2014
Is the Ford Transit Connect reliable?
Is the 2020 Ford Transit Connect a good car?
How much should I pay for a 2020 Ford Transit Connect?
The least-expensive 2020 Ford Transit Connect is the 2020 Ford Transit Connect Wagon XLT 4dr Minivan w/Rear 180 Degree Doors SWB, Prod. End 06/19 (1.5L 4cyl Turbodiesel 8A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $27,755.
Other versions include:
- Wagon XLT 4dr Minivan w/Rear 180 Degree Doors SWB, Prod. End 06/19 (1.5L 4cyl Turbodiesel 8A) which starts at $27,755
- Wagon XLT 4dr Minivan w/Rear Liftgate SWB, Prod. End 06/19 (1.5L 4cyl Turbodiesel 8A) which starts at $27,755
- Wagon Titanium SWB 4dr Minivan w/Prod. End 06/19 (1.5L 4cyl Turbodiesel 8A) which starts at $30,870
What are the different models of Ford Transit Connect?
More about the 2020 Ford Transit Connect
2020 Ford Transit Connect Diesel Overview
The 2020 Ford Transit Connect Diesel is offered in the following styles: Wagon XLT 4dr Minivan w/Rear 180 Degree Doors SWB, Prod. End 06/19 (1.5L 4cyl Turbodiesel 8A), Wagon XLT 4dr Minivan w/Rear Liftgate SWB, Prod. End 06/19 (1.5L 4cyl Turbodiesel 8A), and Wagon Titanium SWB 4dr Minivan w/Prod. End 06/19 (1.5L 4cyl Turbodiesel 8A).
What do people think of the 2020 Ford Transit Connect Diesel?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2020 Ford Transit Connect Diesel and all its trim types. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2020 Transit Connect Diesel.
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2020 Ford Transit Connect Diesel and all model years in our database. Our rich analysis includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2020 Transit Connect Diesel featuring deep dives into trim levels including Wagon XLT, Wagon Titanium SWB, etc. with careful analysis around pricing, features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving and performance. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
Read our full review of the 2020 Ford Transit Connect Diesel here.Our Review Process
This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.
We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.
What's a good price for a New 2020 Ford Transit Connect Diesel?
Shop with Edmunds for perks and special offers on new cars, trucks, and SUVs near Ashburn, VA. Doing so could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars. Edmunds also provides consumer-driven dealership sales and service reviews to help you make informed decisions about what cars to buy and where to buy them.
Which 2020 Ford Transit Connect Diesels are available in my area?
2020 Ford Transit Connect Diesel Listings and Inventory
Simply research the type of used car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap used cars for sale near you. Once you have identified a vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2020 Ford Transit Connect Diesel.
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2020 [object Object] Transit Connect Diesel for sale near you.
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Why trust Edmunds?
Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including all models of the 2020 Ford Transit Connect Diesel and all available trim types: Wagon XLT, Wagon XLT, Wagon Titanium SWB. Rich, trim-level features & specs and options data tracked for the 2020 Ford Transit Connect Diesel include (but are not limited to): MSRP, available incentives and deals, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (interior and exterior color, upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, cruise control, parking assistance, lane sensing, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy and MPG (city, highway, and combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (interior cabin space, vehicle length and width, seating capacity, cargo space). Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds expert review, safety rating, and color.
Should I lease or buy a 2020 Ford Transit Connect Diesel?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
Check out Ford lease specials