Among all of the glamorous reveals and Hollywood stars pulling silk off of fancy, sexy and technology-packed new car at the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show, Ford very quietly pulled the wraps off of a new trim level for its new-to-America Transit Connect.
The Transit Connect comes in essentially two forms: Transit Connect Van (traditional cargo hauling mode) with rear panels where the windows would normally be and only two front seats; or Transit Connect Wagon, which essentially replaces the rear panels with windows and adds a second row three-person bench-like seat.
Until now, however, the Transit Connect Wagon was only available in XLT form, and only had second row rear windows and minimal trim to spice up the outside and dignify its existence compared to the work-minded Van. But alas, XLT Premium adds a “third row” set of flip-out windows – despite only have two rows of seats – and more consumer-minded exterior belt line trim to give the vehicle a proper look for people moving duties.
Also added with families in mind were standard blind-spot sideview mirrors, a rear view camera, rear cargo door pocket storage and privacy glass.
“Since Transit Connect arrived here as the ‘ultimate tool’ for small business proprietors, we’ve heard requests from potential personal-use customers,” said Rob Stevens, chief nameplate engineer for commercial vehicles. “Buyers looking for a taller wagon with seating for five passengers and generous cargo space have shown significant interest in Transit Connect.”
Since Ford doesn’t currently offer a minivan in America – the Flex CUV being the closest thing to a van – this expansion helps Ford fill a niche that was previously arguably empty in its lineup, at least until the C-Max arrives next year.
The Transit Connect XLT Premium is available now on Ford’s website, and comes powered by the same 2.0-liter four-cylinder found in all Transit Connect models, with a best-in-class highway rating of 26 miles per gallon.
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