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What is it? Ford introduced the European-market Transit Connect at the Chicago Auto Show. Scaled for negotiating narrow, traffic-clogged streets and engineered to deliver decent fuel economy, Ford plans to bring this vehicle to the United States where it may have appeal as an alternative to a full-sized van.
Designed for small-business owners, it provides impressive cargo capacity for its footprint. (It is only four inches longer than a Focus.) Cargo capacity is 143 cubic feet, and it can accommodate loads up to 6.5 feet in length and 4.7 ft. in width. Dual-sliding side doors and wide-opening rear doors provide good access to cargo areas, opening 180 degrees in the base model and 270 degress in the XLT.
The Transit is powered by a 2.0-liter 4-cyl. engine with four-speed automatic transmission. Specific output for America hasn't been released.
What is new or notable: To maximize space, the Transit Connect exterior has flat walls. These slab sides are well suited to enable businesses to brand the vehicle, as demonstrated on the several test examples unveiled in Chicago.
When will it be available? Mid-2009 in select markets.
Consumer Reports New cars: A to Z
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