What is the difference between XL and XLT connect?

Short answer: XL is Ford’s base-trim offering, while XLT Connect describes a mid-level trim paired with Ford’s connected-services package. The differences center on equipment, interior comfort, and the availability of FordPass/Connect features, though exact specs vary by model year and market.

To understand the distinction, it helps to know that Ford uses XL and XLT as trim names across several trucks and SUVs. The word “Connect” typically refers to FordPass Connect, Ford’s embedded modem that provides remote features and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Availability and feature detail change over time and by region, so the precise differences can depend on year, model, and country.

Key differences in equipment and options

XL baseline features

The XL trim serves as the entry point in Ford’s lineup, focusing on value and practicality. It generally emphasizes durable interior materials, essential controls, and basic technology, with fewer comfort and convenience options included as standard.

• Fundamental truck/SUV equipment focused on utility and durability


• Basic interior with fewer premium materials and amenities


• Standard or limited infotainment and driver-assist features, depending on year

In short, XL is designed for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize function over frills, with optional upgrades available through packages.

XLT Connect enhancements

The XLT Connect configuration builds on the XL foundation by adding more comfort, technology, and connectivity options. This often includes upgraded interior trim, a larger or more capable infotainment setup, and access to Ford’s connected services.

• Upgraded seating and interior trim options compared with XL


• Improved infotainment capabilities (larger screen, enhanced audio in many years)


• Access to FordPass Connect and related features in certain model years

These enhancements aim to balance daily practicality with a more tailored, modern cabin experience, while keeping a reasonable price differential from higher trims.

Connectivity and FordPass Connect

FordPass Connect is the connectivity package that often accompanies XLT Connect. It centers on an embedded modem that enables remote vehicle features and a built-in Wi‑Fi hotspot. The exact availability and capabilities depend on the model year and regional offerings.

• Embedded modem for in-vehicle Wi‑Fi hotspot (data plans may apply)


• Remote features via the FordPass app, such as remote start, remote lock/unlock, and vehicle status checks


• Vehicle location services, status alerts, and potential updates to navigation and software

Note that some features may require activation and/or a subscription after any included trial period, and not all XL models offer FordPass Connect. Availability varies by year and market.

Model-year and regional caveats

The exact difference between XL and XLT Connect can shift with model-year redesigns and regional configurations. Always confirm current specs with a dealer, since Ford periodically updates standard equipment, optional packages, and connectivity offerings.

• Some years may include FordPass Connect as standard on XLT or higher, and as an optional package on XL


• The naming "XLT Connect" is not guaranteed in every market; similar packages may appear under different labels

Dealers can provide the precise feature list for the exact year and region you’re considering.

Summary

XL is the value-focused entry trim, while XLT Connect adds more comfort, technology, and connectivity options, with FordPass Connect often playing a central role in the “Connect” designation. The real-world difference depends on the model year and region, so prospective buyers should verify the exact equipment and connectivity package on the specific vehicle they’re evaluating.

For readers weighing a purchase, the takeaway is simple: choose XL for the lowest sticker price and straightforward utility; choose XLT Connect if you want more interior polish, tech features, and built-in connectivity—keeping in mind that exact features can vary by year and market.

Why is Ford discontinuing 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 is the difference between connect XL and XLT?

The main differences are that the Ford Transit Connect XL is the budget-friendly, base model focusing on essentials, while the XLT is a step up with more comfort, convenience, and technology features like upgraded interior materials and advanced driver-assist systems. The XLT often adds features such as carpeted flooring, an improved infotainment system, and additional safety tech that may be optional or unavailable on the XL. 
You can watch this video to learn about the features of the Ford Transit Connect XLT trim: 1mXcelerateYouTube · May 24, 2021
Ford Transit Connect XL

• Focus: Essentials, utility, and cost-effectiveness. 
• Interior: Typically features durable vinyl or cloth flooring. 
• Technology: Comes standard with Ford Co-Pilot360™ technology (including pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking) and a basic AM/FM stereo with a 4" display. 
• Safety: Includes standard Ford Co-Pilot360™ features. 
• Price: The most affordable option. 

Ford Transit Connect XLT

• Focus: Added comfort, convenience, and technology. 
• Interior: Upgraded to carpeted flooring and a more comfortable cloth interior. 
• Technology: Upgrades to an improved infotainment system, often with a larger touchscreen, and may include enhanced connected navigation. 
• Safety: Often adds standard safety features not on the XL, such as blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. 
• Price: Costs more than the XL but offers more features as standard. 

How to choose

• Choose the XL if your priority is the lowest possible price and you only need essential features. 
• Choose the XLT if you are willing to pay more for a significant upgrade in comfort, technology, and standard safety features that enhance the driving experience. 

What are the trim levels for the Ford Transit Connect?

The Ford Transit Connect is available in three main trim levels: XL, XLT, and Titanium. The XL is the base model, the XLT adds more comfort and technology features, and the Titanium is the premium option with upscale finishes and advanced technology. Some markets also offer other names like Trend, Limited, and Active. 
Trim Levels

• XL: This is the entry-level trim, offering a balance of functionality and affordability. 
  • Features include a 4.2-inch touchscreen, manual mirrors, and Ford Co-Pilot360™ technology on some models. 
  • Often comes with vinyl flooring and seats. 
  • May be available as a cargo van or passenger wagon. 
• XLT: Positioned as the mid-range trim, it adds more comfort and technology. 
  • Typically includes a larger 6.5-inch Sync 3 touchscreen with smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto). 
  • Adds features like dual-zone climate control, carpeted flooring, and additional USB ports. 
  • Includes more of the Ford Co-Pilot360™ suite as standard, which can include blind-spot monitoring and lane-keeping assist. 
• Titanium: The top-of-the-line trim, offering premium features and finishes. 
  • Often includes leather upholstery, xenon headlights with LED foglights, and a premium audio system. 
  • Features keyless entry and ignition, power-folding mirrors, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. 
  • Note: On some models, the Titanium trim is only available as a passenger wagon. 

Other models and considerations

• International variations: Some international markets may use different trim names, such as the Trend, Limited, and Active trims available in Europe. 
• Cargo vs. Passenger: The Transit Connect is offered in both cargo van and passenger wagon configurations, and the available trims can vary between them. 
• Wheelbase: The Transit Connect also comes in different wheelbase lengths, often labeled as L1 (short) and L2 (long), which affects cargo space. 

What is the difference between XL and XLT?

The main difference is that the XL is the base, functional trim, ideal for work, while the XLT is a mid-level trim that adds more comfort, convenience, and style features for daily driving. The XLT builds on the XL by including upgrades like aluminum wheels, power mirrors, cruise control, a keyless entry keypad, and enhanced interior materials. 
Ford XL (Base model)

• Focus: Basic functionality and work-oriented features. 
• Key features: Often comes with a base engine, steel wheels, and manual mirrors. 
• Best for: Businesses, fleet vehicles, or those needing a no-frills, budget-friendly truck. 

Ford XLT (Mid-level model)

• Focus: Added comfort, convenience, and style for daily use. 
• Key features:
  • Exterior: Aluminum wheels, power mirrors, and often a power lock tailgate. 
  • Interior: Upgraded fabric seats, carpeted floor mats, and a center armrest. 
  • Technology & Convenience: Cruise control, a SecuriCode™ keyless entry keypad, and features like the Integrated Tether System in the bed. 
• Best for: Daily drivers who want more creature comforts and technology than the base model. 

How they compare

Feature	XL	XLT
Primary Use	Workhorse, fleet vehicle	Daily driver
Wheels	Steel wheels	Aluminum wheels
Mirrors	Manual side mirrors	Power mirrors
Entry	Standard	SecuriCode™ keyless entry keypad
Convenience	Basic	Cruise control, carpeted floor mats
Interior	Utilitarian	Upgraded fabric seats and center armrest
Tailgate	Manual lock	Power lock tailgate

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