As an inexpensive alternative to the gluttonous and ponderous full-size cargo and passenger van, the urban-centric, Euro-styled 2012 Ford Transit Connect fits the bill admirably. This eccentric two- or five-passenger mini-truck is actually a compact cargo van that can be delivered in passenger wagon livery, holds up to 130 cubic feet of cargo (though only 1,600 pounds of payload), feels right at home in city traffic and tight spaces, and can save a small fortune in gasoline. All three trims, the base XL, midlevel XLT and XLT Premium are divided into the business-oriented Cargo XL and XLT and the passenger-friendly Wagon XLT and Wagon XLT Premium. The Wagon versions have been converted to Transit Connect Taxi variations and are presently in use or on order in a number of larger cities around the world, not surprising considering this mini’s agility and economy. A fully electric configuration is also available, mainly for fleet usage.

Though challenged, utility-wise, by the likes of Ford’s own E-Series, Mercedes-Benz’s Sprinter, Chevy’s Express and GMC’s Savana, the Transit Connect must now contend with the likes of Chevy’s mini-style HHR Panel and Nissan’s brand-new NV, an Asian-flavored minivan that’s already making waves in this country.

Engine-wise, only a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder powerplant with its accompanying 4-speed automatic is available to the 2012 Transit Connect lineup. This little four-banger puts out 136 hp and 128 lb-ft of torque, perhaps a tad short of what this downsized van/wagon could really use. Mileage, however, which is what Ford had in mind from conception to delivery, is a pretty spiffy 21 mpg city/26 highway.

A bit Spartan by today’s gizmo-heavy standards, the 2012 Transit Connect makes up in utility what it lacks in exterior flash and creature comforts. The base XL, for example, is delivered with 15-inch steel wheels, cloth upholstery, front captain’s chairs, telescoping tilt-wheel steering, air conditioning and an AM/FM stereo with two speakers. Moving up to the Cargo or Wagon XLT begets remote power door locks, heated power mirrors, cruise control and a single-CD player with auxiliary MP3 input. The Wagon XLT additionally adds a rear bench seat for five-passenger seating, while the Wagon XLT Premium adds upgraded exterior trim, a couple of extra speakers and manual flip-out rear windows.

Options across the lineup include second-row privacy glass, front floormats (and rear floormats in Wagon versions), and the Ford Work Solutions in-dash computer system, Tool-Tracking, and Crew Chief vehicle telematics. Then for fleet use, there’s available Bluetooth technology through the in-dash computer, as well as touch-screen navigation, full-opening rear doors (255 degrees), rear parking sensors and a rear-view camera.

The big news for the 2012 Transit Connect stable is the addition of standard traction and stability control to complement its four-wheel antilock brakes (ABS). Alas, Ford still insists on front disc and rear drum brakes, but does provide its mini-hauler with standard front side-mounted airbags and auto-delay-off headlights. Daytime running lights, meantime, are optional for all trims.

Snail-like acceleration, poor audio quality, uncomfortable seating and a rather odd-looking profile are among the downsides noted by owners of the 2011 Transit Connect. Fuel efficiency, however, as well as city-friendly agility, loads of passenger room and some decent cargo capacity make this downsized van/wagon an ideal choice for the small business owner on a budget.