Ford have made some amendments to their small panel van the Ford Transit Connect with alterations being made across the whole range.

The previous 1.6-litre engine has been replaced with a more efficient 1.5-litre TDCI diesel engine, which Ford is saying offers a six per cent improvement in fuel economy (around 74.3mpg) over the 1.6-litre engine.

Less than two years since the original Ford Transit Connect was released onto the market, this new upgrade ensures that the new range of vehicle will be Euro 6 compliant without the use of Adblue and Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) technology.

Ford are now offering Traffic Sign Recognition as an additional extra a useful feature that scans the oncoming road for speed signs and other road rules then alerts the driver of speed limits and displays them on the main instrument panel. Also offered is Ford's Lane Keeping Aid (a useful addition which steers you back into your lane if the system detects you're drifting without wishing to), both of these features have never been offered in the small van segment before and Ford have made a first by making these features available with the Transit Connect.

 

The new vehicles will have access to Ford's second generation infotainment system, the 'SYNC2'. Featuring a high-resolution, six inch colour touchscreen, the SYNC2 allows advanced voice control over connected mobile phones, audio, navigation and even climate control (inside the van, not globally).

Phil Hollins, Ford's Commercial Vehicle marketing, sales and service director has stated, "The all-new Transit Connect has proved a real hit with European businesses thanks to its smart looks, great fuel economy and capable load space."

He also added, "With even lower fuel costs and amazing new technologies, Transit Connect delivers an even stronger proposition to our commercial customers."

Pricing has yet to be announced.