How big is the cargo space in a Ford Transit Connect?
The cargo space in the current Ford Transit Connect cargo van ranges from about 105 cubic feet on the short-wheelbase version to roughly 129 cubic feet on the long-wheelbase version. This is the baseline figure you’ll see in Ford’s specifications for the latest generation, though exact usable space can vary with roof height, partitions, and seating configuration.
What follows explains how these numbers are determined, what factors influence the usable area, and how to decide which setup fits your cargo needs. The Transit Connect is offered in two wheelbase lengths, and the space available behind the front seats changes accordingly. Below are the key figures and considerations based on the most recent model years.
Cargo space by wheelbase
Below are the official figures that illustrate the space available behind the first row for the two wheelbase configurations in the current generation. These figures give a clear baseline for planning loads and determining which version suits a given trade or business.
- Short-wheelbase (SWB) cargo van: about 105 cubic feet of cargo space behind the front seats
- Long-wheelbase (LWB) cargo van: about 129 cubic feet of cargo space behind the front seats
In practical terms, the long-wheelbase variant adds roughly a quarter more usable space than the short-wheelbase model, making it a better fit for larger or longer loads while still retaining nimble handling for urban driving.
Other factors that affect usable space
Beyond wheelbase, several design choices and configurations affect how much cargo you can actually fit. Consider these when planning capacity and workflow.
- Roof height and overall van height, which can limit vertical storage and affect tall load options
- Bulkhead or partition installations, which can reduce continuous floor space but improve load security and safety
- Seating arrangements in passenger configurations, where additional rows take up space that would otherwise be cargo
- Aftermarket shelving, drawers, and racking systems that optimize organization but consume floor area
Because these variables can shift usable space by model year and trim, buyers should verify exact specifications for the specific vehicle they’re considering and factor in any interior fittings or partitions.
Practical takeaways for buyers
Choosing between SWB and LWB should hinge on your typical payload, load length, and how you intend to use the van day to day. The SWB offers easier handling, tighter parking, and lower upfront cost, which suits smaller deliveries or frequent urban trips. The LWB, with its greater cargo capacity, is more suitable for trades that regularly move long items or require substantial equipment transport, even if it comes with a larger footprint.
Summary
For the current Ford Transit Connect lineup, expect roughly 105 cubic feet of cargo space in the short-wheelbase version and about 129 cubic feet in the long-wheelbase version. Real-world space can shift with roof height, partitions, and interior fittings, so verify exact figures from Ford’s latest brochure for the model year you’re considering. In short, pick SWB for agility and cost-effectiveness, or opt for LWB when maximum cargo capacity is the priority.
How much space is in the back of a Ford Transit Connect?
The Ford Transit Connect's cargo space varies by model, with Long Wheelbase (LWB) versions offering up to 106.0 cubic feet of space behind the front seats and up to 127.4 cubic feet with the passenger seat folded in a cargo van configuration. With all rear seats folded in a passenger wagon, a LWB model has over 77 cu. ft. and the Short Wheelbase (SWB) model has about 47.2 cu. ft. behind the second row. The load floor is low, and the LWB model can hold long items up to 85.6 inches with seats folded flat.
This video provides an overview of the cargo space available in the Ford Transit Connect Passenger Wagon: 49sCars With SteveYouTube · Dec 17, 2020
Cargo space dimensions
- Long Wheelbase (LWB):
- Cargo Van: Over 127 cu. ft. of cargo space with the passenger seat folded.
- Passenger Wagon: Up to 106.0 cu. ft. behind the first row with rear seats folded.
- Short Wheelbase (SWB):
- 47.2 cu. ft. Passenger Wagon: behind the second-row seats.
- General dimensions:
- Maximum length: Up to 85.6 inches long in LWB models with all rear seats folded flat.
- Width between wheel wells: Approximately 48 inches.
- Height: Varies by model and location, but a common maximum is around 49.7 inches in the cargo area.
- Load floor height: Under 2 feet, making it easy to load items.
This video demonstrates how to fold the seats in a Ford Transit Connect Passenger Wagon to maximize cargo space: 55sFord Motor CompanyYouTube · Apr 1, 2017
Other features
- Folding seats: The rear seats can be folded in various configurations to accommodate different cargo and passenger needs.
- Split-folding seats: On passenger models, the second and third-row seats can be folded in a split configuration to secure long objects while still allowing passengers to be seated.
- Low step-in height: The low load floor makes it easy to get in and out of the vehicle and to load and unload cargo.
- Dual sliding doors: Passenger models come standard with dual sliding side doors.
You can watch this video to see a step-by-step demonstration of the interior measurements of the Ford Transit Connect Long Wheelbase model: 59sUpfit SupplyYouTube · Nov 14, 2024
Why did Ford discontinue the Transit Connect?
Ford discontinued the Transit Connect in the U.S. due to decreased demand for small vans in the U.S. market and a strategy to reduce global manufacturing costs and complexity. The company also planned to build the next-generation model on a different platform shared with other vehicles, but the project was ultimately scrapped. The smaller van segment in North America saw declining sales, and competitors like Ram and Nissan had already exited it. The Transit Connect will continue to be sold in Europe.
- Decreased demand: The small van segment in the U.S. has seen a decline in sales, making the Transit Connect less profitable.
- Manufacturing cost and complexity: Ford is focused on reducing its global manufacturing costs and complexity by streamlining its operations.
- Strategic shift: Ford is focusing on more popular models in the U.S. like its larger Transit van and SUVs, while also expanding its EV lineup.
- Product platform changes: A next-generation Transit Connect was planned to be built in Mexico on the same platform as the Maverick and Bronco Sport, but this was canceled.
- European market: The Transit Connect will continue to be produced and sold in Europe.
What size bed fits in a Ford Transit Connect?
In terms of standard mattress sizes, the closest mattress that will fit in the back of most Ford models is a Twin.
What are the cargo dimensions of the Ford Transit Connect?
The Ford Transit Connect cargo dimensions vary by wheelbase, but key measurements for the Long Wheelbase (LWB) model include a cargo length of approximately 797979 inches (6' 7") and an interior width between the wheel wells of about 484848 inches (444 ft). The maximum interior height is around 505050 inches, with the rear door opening width at the bottom being about 505050 inches. The Short Wheelbase (SWB) cargo length is approximately 71.571.571.5 inches, and the interior width between the wheel wells is also about 48.348.348.3 inches.
You can watch this video for a demonstration of the Ford Transit Connect's interior cargo measurements: 59sUpfit SupplyYouTube · Dec 20, 2022
Long Wheelbase (LWB)
- Cargo length: ~ 797979 inches (6′6 prime6′ 7") from the cab to the rear threshold.
- Cargo length with load-through feature: Up to 3.43.43.4 meters (11′11 prime11′ 2").
- Interior width between wheel wells: ~ 484848 inches (444 ft).
- Maximum interior height: ~ 505050 inches.
- Rear door opening width (at base): ~ 505050 inches.
Short Wheelbase (SWB)
- Cargo length: ~ 71.571.571.5 inches.
- Interior width between wheel wells: ~ 48.348.348.3 inches.
- Maximum interior height: ~ 49.749.749.7 inches.
General cargo area features
- The LWB model has a cargo capacity of up to 123.2123.2123.2 cubic feet, while the SWB model has a capacity of around 104.8104.8104.8 cubic feet.
- Both SWB and LWB van models offer a flat load floor and near-vertical walls, which helps maximize usable space.
- You can also gain an additional 666 to 777 inches of length by utilizing the space near the cab.
- Available with swing-out rear doors that can open to 180∘180 raised to the composed with power180∘ or an optional 255∘255 raised to the composed with power255∘ hinge angle.
