Why did Ford discontinue the Transit Connect?
Ford has decided to discontinue the Transit Connect, a compact commercial van that was once a popular choice for small businesses and tradespeople. This decision comes as the automaker shifts its focus to larger, more profitable vehicles in the North American market.
Declining Sales and Changing Market Trends
The Transit Connect, first introduced in the United States in 2009, was designed to fill a niche for a smaller, more maneuverable commercial van. However, over the years, its sales have steadily declined as consumer preferences have shifted towards larger, more versatile SUVs and pickup trucks. The rise in popularity of these larger vehicles, coupled with the Transit Connect's relatively limited cargo and passenger capacity, has contributed to its declining appeal in the market.
Competitive Landscape and Profitability Concerns
The compact commercial van segment has become increasingly crowded, with competitors such as the Nissan NV200 and Ram ProMaster City offering similar features and capabilities. In this competitive environment, the Transit Connect has struggled to maintain its market share and profitability for Ford. The automaker has likely determined that allocating resources to more profitable and in-demand vehicle segments, such as its popular F-Series trucks and SUVs, would be a more strategic move for the company's long-term success.
Ford's Shift in Product Lineup
The discontinuation of the Transit Connect is part of a broader shift in Ford's product strategy. The company has been focusing on strengthening its position in the truck, SUV, and crossover segments, which tend to generate higher profit margins. This strategic realignment has led Ford to discontinue or phase out several of its smaller, less profitable models, including the Fiesta, Fusion, and now the Transit Connect.
Conclusion
The decision to discontinue the Ford Transit Connect is a reflection of the changing market dynamics and Ford's evolving product strategy. As consumer preferences shift towards larger vehicles and the compact commercial van segment becomes increasingly competitive, Ford has determined that the Transit Connect no longer aligns with its long-term goals and profitability targets. This move allows the automaker to focus its resources on the development and production of its more profitable and in-demand vehicle offerings.
What is the problem with the Ford Transit Connect?
The main Ford Transit Connect van problems are the Cambelt shredding its teeth. This results in the same effect as the Cambelt snapping, causing the piston valve damage resulting in head removal for investigation or a replacement engine being needed. Other common faults known are turbo failure.
Will Ford replace the Transit Connect?
Back in March 2023, The Blue Oval announced that the Ford Transit Connect had been officially canceled for the North American market, noting that it would be removed from that lineup following the conclusion of the 2023 model year.
Will there be a 2024 Ford Transit Connect?
Transit Connect enters production in spring 2024, with initial deliveries of the diesel van scheduled for summer this year as part of a phased launch plan. Transit Connect PHEV will join the range before the end of the year, with all-wheel drive and Kombi models completing the line-up in early 2025.
What is the life expectancy of a Ford Transit Connect?
is157,000 miles
What is Ford Transit Connect lifespan? The estimated lifespan of a Ford Transit Connect is157,000 miles, before reaching the life expectancy upper limit. Factors such as ULEZ compliance and BHP are major when looking into a vehicle's lifespan/life expectancy.
Which Transit Connect to avoid?
Among the Ford Transit Van years to avoid, as noted by MotorBiscuit, the 2015 model year stands out as the most problematic. Known for significant issues in its engine, transmission, and electronic systems, the 2015 Ford Transit Van has faced several recalls and numerous owner complaints.
What year is the bad Ford Transit Connect?
Aside from the 2012 redesign, some 2013-2021 Transit Connects have also been reported to have transmission issues. Early in 2021, Ford issued a recall for over 192,000 2013-2021 Transit Connects due to their high probability of rolling away when in park mode.
