2019 Ford Transit Connect Cargo Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

The 2019 Ford Transit Connect Cargo is a medium-sized, light-duty work van. It comes in a number of different styles and configurations. It can be set up for cargo hauling or for passenger transportation. The Transit Connect Cargo is a good alternative to some of the larger work vans on the market today. This vehicle is well suited for large company fleets, small businesses or even one-person service type jobs. We will be taking a look at ten of the top reasons to own a Ford Transit Connect Cargo. We'll also explore some of the reasons why it may not be the best option for you.

What's New for 2019?

For 2019, the Transit Connect Cargo gets a couple of new engine choices. One of them is a diesel engine. These get paired with an all-new, 8-speed automatic transmission system. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity will now be included for most models. Ford has also added in some new driver-assist systems such as Pedestrian Detection and a Forward-Collision Warning. There are some minor cosmetic upgrades for the exterior. The front fascia gets a complete makeover.

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2019 Ford Transit Connect Cargo – The Pros

1. The Engine Choices

The Ford Transit Connect Cargo gives you the choice of three different engines. The base model is a 2.0-liter I-4. It produces around 169 horsepower. You should get around 24 miles-per-gallon in the city and 29 miles-per-gallon on the highway. The real star of the show here is Ford's 2.5-liter engine. You get a slight downgrade in fuel economy, but a nice boost in power and torque. Acceleration is markedly improved by moving up to this model. Ford also offers a 1.5-liter, 4-cylinder turbodiesel. This is an interesting option that could save your business money on fuel. Multiple options to fit specific needs is a reoccurring theme when it comes to this work van.

2. Good Steering and Handling

2019 Ford Transit Connect Cargo is a lot easier to maneuver than most traditional minivans. It has a tight, small turning radiance. Steering is accurate, light and responsive. You get a good amount of road feedback too. This van isn't a large model, but it's still a van and a good deal bigger than your average sedan. Fortunately, the steering dynamics make it easy to maneuver and park.

3. Modern Tech and Infotainment System

Ford has included a number of high-tech systems in this van for 2019. You get an impressive infotainment system. The audio system will allow you or your drivers to enjoy their favorite music with plenty of volume. The Ford SYNC 3 system includes navigation software and a lot of connectivity options. You have Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Alexa compatibility. There are USB ports for your smart devices and a 6.5-inch touchscreen display.

4. A Spacious Interior

The 2019 Ford Transit Connect Cargo provides for a ton of interior space. There's plenty of room for the driver and passenger to stretch their legs a bit. It's easy to get in and out of the van too. The Transit Connect Cargo has room for plenty of cargo. You can configure this van in a number of ways, and the final numbers will depend on the specific body style you choose. At the top of the spectrum, you can have as much as 123.2 cubic-feet of space/

5. It's Practical and Compact

There are a lot of large work vehicles on the market for 2019. The Transit Connect Cargo is smaller, lighter and better on fuel than the bulk of them. It's also easier to move around from one loading point to the next. It can easily be reversed into a space or parked wherever you need to go. It's the ideal solution for many businesses that don't particularly need an enormous delivery van.

6. A Lot of Safety Features

The 2019 Ford Transit Connect Cargo offers plenty of standard safety features. Ford has equipped the Transit Connect Cargo with a ton of driver-assist systems. You get the previously noted Pedestrian Detection and a Forward-Collision Warning. Ford also includes a rear-view camera and advanced airbags. Lane-Keeping Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control and Blind-sport Monitoring are all optional for any trim level.

7. Multiple Body Configurations

You can purchase a Transit Connect Cargo in a variety of different lengths and heights. You can get one outfitted to transport passengers. A model specifically for hauling around cargo is also available. This suits the needs of delivery services, transportation businesses and individual service providers who just need to haul around tools and equipment.

8. Exterior Graphics and Customization

The 2019 Ford Transit Connect Cargo offers customization for both function and for appearance. Ford offers custom artwork to show off your company name and logo. You can choose from dozens of colors and templates. If you already have a company logo, Ford can take care of that and add it on to your van too.

9. It's Tough and Reliable

The term "built Ford tough," is more than just a clever marketing slogan. This Ford van has a simple but rugged design. It is built to last and should provide years of service to you and your company. These vans have a good track record when it comes to longevity on the road.

10. Ford Commercial Solutions

The 2019 Ford Transit Connect Cargo was built for businesses. You get some amazing tools to assist you. Software and hardware is integrated seamlessly to help you to optimize performance from your fleet. Ford Telematics allows you to monitor and manage fleet operations for maximum efficiency. Ford Data gives you quick access to specific data and fleet information over a secure platform.

Reasons Not to Buy a 2019 Ford Transit Connect Cargo – The Cons

1. The Base Engine Power

The base engine is more than adequate for most needs. It does feel sluggish at times, though. The standard 2.0-liter engine only produces around 169 horsepower. Acceleration isn't as good as it is with some competing vehicles. It may be best to choose the 2.5-liter, iVCT I-4 engine or the diesel model.

2. Folding Down the Passenger Seats Gets Tricky

Configuring your passenger seats can get a bit tricky in the 2019 Ford Transit Connect Cargo. It's a clumsy process that consumes more time than it should. Still, it's nice that this feature was added in the first place. It's always good having options and flexibility in a work van. This won't be a deal breaker for most buyers as it hardly outweighs all of the positives of owning a Transit Connect Cargo.

3. The Firm and Bumpy Ride Quality

This is a general issue with almost every work van on the market. Unfortunately, the Transit Connect Cargo doesn't do anything new to alleviate this problem. The suspension system is stiff and you can feel every little bump in the road. That's not good for a work vehicle that you may need to spend a lot of time inside of. Still, it's kind of par for the course in this class of vehicles.

How It Stacks Up to the Competition

The 2019 Ford Transit Connect Cargo faces some stiff competition from three other work vans on the market. These are the 2019 Mercedes-Benz Metris, the 2019 Nissan NV200 and the 2019 Ram ProMaster City. All are fine vehicles with a lot to offer.

The Mercedes-Benz Metris has a base engine that is more powerful than that of the Ford Transit Connect Cargo. The Ford does have other options, however. The 2.5-liter and diesel options for the Ford crank out more horsepower than what the Mercedes can handle. The Mercedes offers some nice comfort features. The Ford does a better job of providing customization options and tools for businesses.

The Nissan NV200 has a price and fuel-economy rating very similar to what the Ford Transit Connect Cargo offers. The cargo capacity and maximum payload numbers are both very similar as well. The Ford once again wins out when it comes to customization options. The Transit Connect Cargo can truly be configured to meet any type of work-related needs. It also offers slightly better steering and handling dynamics when compared to the Nissan.

The Ram ProMaster City gives you a little bit more cargo space in the rear when compared with the Ford Transit Connect Cargo. The base-engine power is very similar for the Ram and Ford vans. The fuel-economy ratings are nearly identical. The Ford edges out Ram here by including business tools such as their Data and Telematics systems. You can also order a Ford van with custom artwork, text and logos already added on. This may make it a better choice for company fleets.

In Conclusion:

The 2019 Ford Transit Connect Cargo is the perfect solution to a number of different business needs. It may even be a good choice for a family hauler. It offers numerous perks that you might not even find on your average minivan. The Transit Connect Cargo stacks up well when compared to the competition. You get a great amount of passenger room and cargo space depending on how your van is configured. Ford goes a long way to provide options for practical and visual customization to suit your specific needs. It's easy to recommend this vehicle to anyone looking for a work van in this size and price range.