2008 Chicago Auto Show: Ford Transit Connect

• Competes with: GMC Savana, Dodge Sprinter
• Looks like: An airport shuttle
• Drivetrain: 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with automatic transmission
• Hits dealerships: Mid-2009

Business owners will have a fuel-efficient gasoline-powered option for delivery vans in 2009. The Ford Transit Connect has been on the scene in Europe for years, and the recent success of Dodge’s Sprinter in the states makes Ford’s Transit Connect a little more understandable.

Ford is saying the Transit Connect will get an estimated 19/24 mpg city/highway, but official power numbers won’t be available until closer to its on-sale date in mid-2009. At the Chicago Auto Show we’ll hear lots of stories of Chi-town businesses that rely on delivery vans for their livelihood, including a catering company and a wine shop.

Interior cargo room is substantial at 143 cubic feet — Dodge’s Sprinter has 127 cubic feet — and there will be numerous options on interior configurations. We’ll learn more about the Transit Connect this week, but for now check out more photos below. 

Comments

Funny, looks smaller than a Sprinter.

Turbo Diesel option?

I predict this will be a successfull addition to the Ford lineup. I would like to see a 4 or 6 diesel; maybe shared with the new Explorer??

Like to see a camper option, and hell yes bring on a small diesel!