With latest styling, multiple length and roof sizes and the all-new EcoBoost option, Ford’s seven-passenger MPV variant, the 2014 Ford Transit Connect Wagon is totally fresh. Offered in both short and long wheelbase configuration, the vehicle is likely to arrive in the US with an initial price of approximately $24,000. This model is Ford’s answer to van-deprived loyalists.

Engine and Performance

The Transit Connect Wagon offers a base engine of 2.5-liter four-cylinder with a standard six-speed automatic transmission. The engine has the capacity to generate 175 horsepower. From zero to 60 miles per hour, the vehicle can accelerate in 9.5 seconds – not bad for a van.

Economy

Taking into account the ever-increasing petrol and gas prices all across the globe, economy remains one of the most important things for most of the population. Some outstanding potential mileage figures are expected due to the EcoBoost engine. Experts believe that the vehicle will hit an EPA mileage rating of high 30’s on the highway. The van is also expected to do quite well in city. The engine of the Transit Connect Wagon is available with a CNG/LPG gaseous Engine Prep Packache, which means that it can be converted to CNG/LPG fuel systems, which should further enhance the economy.

Space

Space is one of the most important factors when we talk about vans. The 2014 Ford Transit Connect Wagon is five-seater in the short-wheelbase configuration; whereas, in the longer length option, it is up to seven-seater. The Transit Connect Wagon is just an ideal car for picking and dropping kids to school. The vehicle offers a lot of leg space to passengers, at the front as well as at the back seats. It comes with a one-piece power tailgate and dual sliding doors, which are preferred by parents.

Exterior

Some familiar and likeable cues for the car’s nose and grille are blended in the styling of the latest Transit Connect Wagon. Body color bumpers and fascias play an important role in lightening the Transit Connect Wagon’s design and to make it a fun-loving passenger model instead of a work van.

The most appealing addition in the profile is a slanted and large glasshouse to present the roomy cabin. The sliding doors feel quite big while opening a tall and wide entrance into the back seats. Passengers will be able to see more outside the window as compared to many other vans due to the low glass line. The headrests of the back seats are visible from outside. Overall, the exterior is quite elegant and stylish.

Interior

A massive but flexible interior layout with a completely flat and extra-low floor height is offered in this model of Ford. For loading child seats, the Transit Connect Wagon looks like the most convenient vehicle in the segment. The front cabin offers most modern technological features including a touchscreen radio, which is optional due to the Transit Connect Wagon’s budget mission. Navigation functionality for MyFord Touch comes with a backup camera.

Competitors

The two major competitors of the Transit Connect Wagon are: Mazda5 and Nissan Quest. Ford’s model has an edge over Mazda5 as the latter is not as large and does not offer a lot of cargo room, although it is quite affordable and reliable. Nissan Quest, on the other hand, is quite expensive.

Pros

• Tall round roof and bull-nose rounded hood
• Great visibility with huge interior glass
• Excellent engine

Cons

• As compared to independent rear suspensions, beam rear axle can be a touch rougher
• The noise and vibration insulation is limited in comparison to some other vans

Verdict

In an era when crossovers are trying to look off-road worthy and macho, the 2014 Ford Transit Connect Wagon offers a very good choice. I would give it 8 out of 10 in this category.