Transit Connect Wagon Brings Ford Back to Minivans in US

FordFordUnited Kingdom, 1909 > present33 models
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has not offered a minivan in the US since the FreestarFord FreestarUnited States of America, 2003 > 20062 versions
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in 2007, but it will sell the seven-passenger TransitFord Transit Gen.8United Kingdom, 2011 > present359 versions
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Connect Wagon in the US starting in 2013 and return to the market. 

Ford will offer the Transit Connect Wagon in three trim levels - XL, XLT and Titanium - and two wheelbases that seats either five- or seven-passengers. Regardless of configuration, the wagon's seats fold flat and can carry 1,200lbs (544kg) of payload and offers over 100ft³ (2,832 liters) of cargo space. Depending on engine, it can tow up to 2,000lbs (907kg).

The wagon will be offered in North America with either the 2.5-liter four-cylinder or 1.6-liter EcoBoost. Both come standard with a six-speed automatic transmission. The 1.6-liter EcoBoost gives the wagon 30mpg (7.8l/100km) on the highway. 

“Transit Connect Wagon gives young families and people on the go the fun-to-drive and efficient vehicle they’ve been looking for,” said Mark Fields, Ford President of the Americas.

“It’s an all-new, smaller seven-seater that has better mileage than larger vans and creates a segment of its own. Customers also will love the unique combination of style, adaptability and affordability this wagon brings," said Fields. 

Because the car will be mainly aimed at families, Ford is equipping it with standard first-row frontal, pelvis and side airbags and side curtain airbags for the second- and third-row of seats. There are also child observation mirrors in the interior so parents can keep an eye on their kids. 

Options for the Transit Connect Wagon include a panoramic sunroof, rear view camera, navigation with 6.5in touch screen, Sync, MyFord Touch, electric windshield defroster

The car will go on sale in the fourth quarter of 2013 in North America. 

The versatile Transit Connect Wagon offers far better fuel efficiency than traditional minivans, compact-car-like maneuverability and handling, combined with unprecedented payload and cargo capabilities.