When the Ford Transit Connect arrived on the market in 2009, it quickly became a hit with businesses for its practical design and functional features. Over the past ten years, Ford has continuously updated the Transit Connect to keep pace with the needs of modern businesses, and 2019 is no different. The 2019 Transit Connect offers updated features along with a sharp new look.

Ford offers two versions of the Transit Connect: a cargo van and a wagon. The cargo vans have panel sides, and the wagons come with full-length windows and up to three rows of seating. Both versions are available in short and long-wheelbase format, and both feature dual-sliding doors. The short-wheelbase wagon holds five people, and the long-wheelbase wagon can seat 7 in folding seats, which creates ample cargo space, if necessary.

The Transit Connect cargo van has a large, flat vinyl load floor, and tall, near-vertical walls with integrated tie-downs. The rear doors swing out 180 degrees and can be locked out in the open position, making it easy to load a standard 48-inch forklift pallet.

While the Ford Transit Connect wagon offers three trims – XL, XLT, and Titanium – the cargo van is more customizable. Ford works with many aftermarket up fitters and suppliers to fit the van to handle ladders, roof racks, and other cargo management solutions. Both versions feature an updated dashboard and infotainment system. The new instrument panel is fully digital, and the SYNC infotainment system can be operated by 6.5-inch floating touchscreen. It runs SYNC 3, which features Ford+Alexa personal assistant, allowing drivers to connect their van to the Amazon system. The Transit Connect also comes standard with 4G LTE connectivity for up to 10 devices and offers other features like wireless device charging.

The Transit Connect has a turning radius of 38.3 feet, making it great for maneuvering through cities or bustling work yards. Plus, when properly equipped, the Transit Connect can tow up to 2,000 pounds.

Under the hood, the base engine in the Transit Connect is a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. It features automatic stop-start and is paired to an 8-speed automatic transmission, sending power to the front wheels. This standard setup is E85-compatible, and it also features a heavy duty battery and alternator. Ford will also offer a 1.5-liter EcoBlue diesel engine in the new Transit Connect. This engine is also paired to the 8-speed automatic transmission and features EcoMode and EcoCoach to help with fuel economy. Buyers purchasing the Transit Connect as a fleet vehicle can also choose a 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine paired to a 6-speed automatic transmission, and Ford also offers prep packages to use compressed natural gas or propane.

Ford equips the Transit Connect with an impressive list of safety gear. Automatic Emergency Braking and a reversing camera are standard equipment, and as is a wind stabilization feature. Standalone safety options include a Blind Spot Information System with cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist.

The Ford Transit Connect is a trusty workhorse for thousands of businesses across the country, and Ford has also shown that it can be an incredibly versatile passenger vehicle for those that need plenty of space without having to opt for a larger, less-efficient vehicle.