What kind of engine is in the Ford Transit Connect?
The engine in the Ford Transit Connect depends on the market and model year. In North America, it uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged EcoBoost four-cylinder engine with about 162 horsepower and 144 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. In Europe and other regions, the van commonly uses diesel EcoBlue engines (1.5L and 2.0L) and, in some markets, petrol EcoBoost options.
This overview explains the current engine options by major markets and generation, reflecting how Ford tailors the Transit Connect to regional emissions rules and demand. It highlights what buyers in different regions should expect from the latest models (as of 2024–2025).
Engine options by market
Below are the primary engine choices you’re likely to encounter, broken out by region. Each list summarizes the main configurations currently offered in that market.
North America (United States and Canada)
- 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four EcoBoost gasoline engine, approx. 162 horsepower and 144 lb-ft of torque
- 8-speed automatic transmission
- Front-wheel drive
- No diesel option offered in this market
In North America, the Transit Connect emphasizes a single gasoline powertrain tuned for efficiency and practicality, with diesel not available in the region.
Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) and other markets
- Diesel EcoBlue engines (1.5L and 2.0L) with a range of outputs depending on variant and configuration
- Petrol EcoBoost options in some markets (typically smaller-displacement engines such as 1.0L–1.5L) for lighter-duty variants
- Transmissions vary by spec, including manual and automatic options depending on the market and trim
Across these markets, diesel EcoBlue engines are common due to their efficiency and torque characteristics for a work van, with petrol EcoBoost variants available where emissions rules and demand permit.
Summary
The Ford Transit Connect does not have a single universal engine; it adapts to regional needs. In the United States, it runs a 2.0-liter EcoBoost gasoline engine with an 8-speed automatic and front-wheel drive. In Europe and other regions, EcoBlue diesel engines (1.5L and 2.0L) are standard, with petrol EcoBoost options in some markets. Buyers should verify the exact powertrain and transmission for their country and model year, as configurations can vary by trim level and year of manufacture.
What is the most reliable Ford Transit Connect engine?
Which Ford Transit Engine Is Most Reliable?
- 2.5 DI Diesel (MK4/MK5 – 1994–2000) Known as the “banana engine” due to its curved intake manifold, this is the gold standard of Transit reliability.
- 2.2 TDCi Duratorq (Late MK7/MK8)
- 2.0 EcoBlue Diesel (MK8 Facelift and MK9 – 2018+)
What engine does Ford Transit Connect have?
The Ford Transit Connect has offered a variety of engines depending on the model year and market, with popular options including a 2.0L and 2.5L gasoline engines, and a 1.5L EcoBlue diesel in some markets. For example, a 2.0L gasoline engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission became standard in some 2019 models, while the 2.5L engine was an option and was also compatible with flex-fuel or natural gas.
You can watch this video to learn more about the driving experience and engine options of a Ford Transit Connect: 55sShooting CarsYouTube · Apr 9, 2024
- Gasoline Engines:
- 2.0L: A 2.0L direct-injection I4 engine was introduced as standard on some 2019 models and is a common engine in recent years, often paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. It produces around 162 horsepower and 144 lb-ft of torque.
- 2.5L: A 2.5L Duratech inline-4 engine was available on older models and could run on gasoline or a gasoline-propane (flex-fuel) blend. It provides decent power and torque.
- 1.0L EcoBoost: Some models have featured a 1.0-liter EcoBoost petrol engine with technology like cylinder deactivation.
- Diesel Engines:
- 1.5L EcoBlue: In 2019, a 1.5L EcoBlue turbodiesel was announced for some markets, but its production for North America was abandoned shortly after.
- 1.6L Duratorq TDCi: This was a diesel option offered in some international markets, with different power outputs and manual transmissions.
This video shows the replacement process for a Ford Transit Connect engine: 0:13ASM Property services UKYouTube · Sep 21, 2022
What is the most common problem with a Ford Transit Connect?
One of the most common problems with the Ford Transit Connect is transmission issues. The transmission is responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels and any problem with it can result in significant performance issues.
Is the Ford Transit Connect any good?
2014-2023. With the 2014 redesign, the Transit Connect is sold as a minivan alternative. It has very good ride and agile handling, but remains a rudimentary vehicle at heart. It has an underpowered four-cylinder, low-rent interior, cumbersome folding seats, and a skimpy feature set.
