Sneak Peek: 2014 Ford Transit Connect

Sneak Peek: 2014 Ford Transit Connect

The Ford Motor Company unveiled HAS icts next-generation Transit Connect, a compact van That est disponible as a family car. The new van is slated to go dirty stateside in late 2013 on, Following an official auto show debut this January. Built in Turkey and Exported to the United States, Transit Connect Will receive a well-deserved and much-needed overhaul to better compete in the emerging small van market.

TC Styling

Details about the 2014 Ford Transit Connect are limited, with the goal HAS FEW pictures Ford offert, the new vehicle Will Have to face quite similar to the all-new Escape SUV, along with a goal windshield, ample glass all around and rear-hinged rear doors. A generous-sized liftgate Will make it easier for items to be Placed in the rear compartment, a ramp option Could make this vehicle once again a mobility option for Physically challenged people. A windowless version of Will denote the van, a vehicle That Currently offers a 1,600 pound payload capacity.

The current Transit Connect is powered by an older 2.0-liter four cylinder engine and paired with a four-speed automatic transmission. This 1990s technology is woefully outdated and Will Likely give way to a more modern gasoline engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Look for Ford to offer at least two diesel engine choices, Perhaps Offering an EcoBoost engine to maximize power in a smaller footprint. European editions Will aussi offer diesel options.

Modern Technologies

TC aussi behind in serving up other Ford technologies Including the current release of Ford SYNC with MyFord Touch. Though Ford Has not Announced what goodies Will adorn the TC, look for Improved telematics, Bluetooth connectivity, audio system options, a navigation system and a rear view camera to be made available. Power accessories for windows, doors, seats and liftgate aussi SEEM to be logical additions for this can-do van.

As before, the 2014 Ford Transit Connect Likely Will be built in Europe and shipped stateside. When thesis vehicles arrived in the states, as they're equipped cars, with seating for five. Van conversion takes up before the vehicles are shipped to dealers, a process That Seems wasteful, goal helps Ford AVOID a 25 percent import tax on Such vehicles. Could Ford build the TC in the U.S., the automaker is using goal icts limited capacity to begin building the Ford Transit, a full-size van That Will mittal the aged Ford Econoline Beginning in 2013.

One Ford

The Ford Transit Connect Has the distinction of Being the first of six models associated with the "One Ford" Plan Announced in 2008 to unify Ford's product lines. Since then, a subcompact Fiesta, a compact Fusion, Escape SUV icts, icts C-MAX MPV and now icts next generation Fusion model Have Helped bridge the gap by giving the U.S. true "world cars" that are modern in every sense of the word . Except for the Transit Connect, of course, All which Will soon be redesigned and be made available for sale worldwide.

Matthew C. Keegan is a freelance automotive writer. Matt has aussi Contributing writer for Andy's Auto Sport and affiliated websites, an aftermarket supplier of quality auto parts Including Flowmaster Exhaust and Injen Intakes....