2016 Ford Transit Connect Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

For the business owners who need to deliver goods or provide a service, the 2016 Ford Transit Connect could prove to be the perfect cargo van. However, there is also a version of the Transit Connect that is designed to haul passengers. Strapped with a four-cylinder engine, the mid-size Transit Connect is far more efficient than most full-size vans. Advanced safety features such as blind-spot monitoring make the driver’s job a lot easier. Meanwhile, the van’s low starting price remains one of its key attributes.

What’s new for 2016?

In an effort to enhance the comfort of the second-row passengers, prospective buyers can now replace the bench seat with a set of captain’s chairs. Ford’s new Sync 3 infotainment system is also available.  

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2016 Ford Transit Connect - The Pros

1) Very Affordable Base Model

While the cargo version starts at $23,550, the five-passenger model displays a $26,100 price tag. When compared to some of the other commercial vans on the market, the Ford Transit Connect becomes a legitimate bargain. Some of the standard features include an AM/FM radio, rear-seat climate control, and key-less entry.

2) Solid Gas Mileage

All versions of the Ford Transit are tuned to deliver good gas mileage. While the base four-cylinder engine is rated at 29 mpg on the highway, the turbocharged engine is able to top out at 30 mpg. The van’s efficiency will equate to a lot of extra money in the owner’s bank account.

3) Strong Turbocharged Engine

Although the base four-cylinder engine is quite peppy, the optional turbocharged motor is a tad bit more potent. The 1.6L EcoBoost engine is able to pump out 178 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The extra power will allow the van to tow up to 2,000 pounds. A six-speed automatic transmission comes standard.

4) Easy to Maneuver

The Ford Transit Connect is very easy to drive, especially the short-wheelbase version. Unlike an extremely large van, the Transit Connect does not take up a great deal of space. Drivers will be able to confidently park in a congested area without any worries. The van’s smaller size also makes it a more poised vehicle on the road.

5) Set the Speed Limit

A crash can definitely cause the owner’s cost of insurance to skyrocket. If the business owner has hired a driver, they may want to take advantage of the van’s speed-limiting feature. The top speed can be set as low as 65 mph. Not only will this feature help protect the company’s investment, but it will also ensure that the driver remains safe.

6) Family Hauler

Despite the fact that a lot of businesses will gravitate toward the Transit Connect, it is also a capable family vehicle. The long-wheelbase model can easily seat up to seven passengers. Families will love the van’s spacious design and affordability. The Platinum model provides quite a few high-end features, including leather upholstery and rain-sensing wipers.

7) High-Tech Features

Prospective buyers should not overlook the van’s available technology. Although the Transit Connect does not offer a premium sound system or massaging seats, it does offer enough technology to satisfy most people. The new Sync 3 infotainment system has been receiving great feedback from the automotive world. Navigation and a 4.2-inch information display are available as well.

8) Crew Chief Telematics

Business owners will be able to keep track of their van at all times. The Crew Chief telematics system can be easily integrated with a cell phone. To find out their driver’s whereabouts, the owner can simply check their phone or computer. The system also provides updates on the vehicle’s tire pressure and oil life.

9) Useful Safety Features

All of the most popular safety features are available on the 2016 Ford Transit Connect. While a rear-view camera enhances outward visibility, the blind-spot monitor provides extra awareness for the drivers who routinely travel on the highway.

10) Five-Star Safety Rating

Ford engineered the Transit Connect to be a very secure vehicle. When hauling passengers around, everyone will benefit from the van’s excellent crash protection. The van’s overall safety should appeal to plenty of families and taxi services.

Reasons you may not want to buy a 2016 Ford Transit Connect - The Cons

1) Cannot Tow Extremely Heavy Loads

The Transit Connect is most suitable for light-duty towing. If the owner needs to tow heavier equipment, they can opt for the full-size Transit.

2) All-Wheel Drive Not Available

All versions of the new Transit Connect send power to the front wheels. During the peak of winter, some owners may need the additional traction provided by an AWD system.

3) Very Few Luxurious Features

While the new Sync 3 infotainment unit will be very popular, the van does not offer many extravagant features. For example, some of the other minivans on the market offer a rear-seat entertainment system.

How 2016 Transit Connect stacks up to the competition:

The 2016 Ford Transit Connect competes directly against the Nissan NV200 and the Ram CV Tradesman. However, the Ram CV Tradesman is strictly a cargo van. Although the Ram CV Tradesman is equipped with a V-6 engine, it fails to match the Transit Connect’s fuel economy. In terms of family vans, the Honda Odyssey and the Toyota Sienna are key rivals. The Transit Connect holds an advantage by offering the most appealing price.

Conclusion:

From hauling passengers around town to making a cross-country delivery, the Ford Transit Connect can serve a variety of different purposes. The arrival of more advanced safety features makes it a very good choice. Fuel economy is above average.