• Stylish new Transit Connect Sport model completes Ford's family of sporty commercial vehicles 
  • Available in Performance Blue with white bonnet stripes 
  • Powered by the acclaimed 1.8-litre Duratorq TDCi 110 PS engine 
  • Transit Connect Sport launched in selected European markets from May 2008 
  • Tourneo Connect Sport model also available in selected LHD markets 

Birmingham, April 15, 2008 – The new Ford Transit Connect Sport production model makes its global debut today at the Birmingham Commercial Vehicle Show.

"The Transit Connect Sport was first showcased as a concept at Birmingham in 2007. It showed how the Transit Connect range could be further extended to offer a sporty, light commercial vehicle for business-owners seeking additional styling for their van," explains Phil Collareno, Ford of Europe's Vehicle Line Director for Commercial Vehicles. "The reaction to the Transit Connect Sport Concept van left us in no doubt that there is demand for a production version."

Since its original launch in 2002, the Transit Connect has established itself as the ideal mid-sized partner to the dependable Fiesta van and the iconic Ford Transit. In 2003, Transit Connect was awarded the coveted International Van of the Year accolade and it has become a regular sight on Europe's roads in both van and Tourneo Connect bodystyles and available in a choice of short wheel base (SWB) and long wheel base (LWB) versions.

Ford announced in February 2008 that the Transit Connect will also be launched in selected North American markets from mid-2009.

Eye-Catching Style
Continuing the tradition set by the other Sport vans and ST performance passenger cars in Ford of Europe's portfolio, the Transit Connect Sport comes in eye-catching Performance Blue metallic paint. The Sport is the only Transit Connect model available in this metallic colour.

The Transit Connect Sport has an array of additional exterior and interior styling features over and above the established Transit Connect. Developed in conjunction with MS Design – suppliers of styling components to Ford's other Sport commercial vehicle derivatives – the bespoke features include full body-coloured bumpers, a bright chrome grille and protective silver 'cups' behind the exterior door handles.

Side skirts, front and rear sports skid plates, an aerodynamic body-coloured roof spoiler and exhaust finisher complete the unique look.

For extra panache, bold Ford GT-style white stripes extend from the lower front bumper across the bonnet and 18-inch seven-spoke alloy wheels complete the sporty exterior styling features.

Like all Transit Connect models the cabin is ergonomically and practically designed, with overhead full width storage.

Recognising the fact that high security is needed for many of the goods carried in the Transit Connect, an alarm and remote double locking is fitted as standard in right hand drive markets (UK and Ireland) and is optional in left hand drive markets.

"The Transit Connect has always been highly specified with a number of driver assistance and convenience features and equipment," said Henrik Nenzen, Director Commercial Vehicles, Marketing, Sales & Service. "The Transit Connect Sport takes this a few steps further. Especially when it comes to eye-catching visual features, and this reflects a growing trend for highly stylish vans that owner-operators are proud to own and work in."

Elements of the special and unique exterior are continued in the interior where sporty detail touches are added, including a Sport steering wheel and gear knob, plus a silver surround to the centre stack and bright air vent controls.

"Our research tells us that typical Sport van customers often use their vehicle for private purposes outside of work and that they often carry a passenger. We've therefore ensured that the Transit Connect Sport is equally attractive and comfortable for passengers," explained Nenzen.

Car-like Convenience with Professional Practicality
Like the other Sport models in the Ford Commercial Vehicles range, the Transit Connect Sport is highly specified with a range of standard features and equipment.

Driver assistance features include ABS with Anti-Spin, Traction Control and Park Distance Control. All of these features are fitted as standard to RHD models and – with the exception of ABS – are optional on LHD models. These are complemented by high levels of 'car-like' comfort features to ensure that the cab delivers on what's promised by the exterior styling.
Standard features include air conditioning, power windows and mirrors and – for the UK market – twin side loading doors and a single side load door on the passenger side for LHD markets. High levels of audio equipment are included; a high-end CD radio on LHD models and 6-CD changer on RHD models, both of which are Bluetooth® enabled. Both radios have remote stalk operation. Stowage areas are provided throughout, including a large overhead storage area that extends the entire width of the cab.

Increased interior comfort is exemplified by the standard Pewter leather seats on RHD models, with eight-way seat adjustment for the driver's seat and heated seats available as options. Pewter leather seats are also available as an option for LHD models.

The Tourneo Connect's rear storage area is accessed from the rear via a tailgate opening while the van's cargo area is accessed via twin opening rear doors that are available with optional glazing. The standard twin rear doors are useful in height-restricted conditions and ensure that items can be loaded with ease.

A full bulkhead prevents any cargo movement and is partly glazed. The provision of a rear floor mat helps retain the high level of finish to the floor and is designed to prevent any cargo from slipping.

In terms of safety, front and side airbags are standard in all markets. Front fog lamps are also standard as is the heated windscreen with Ford's Quickclear technology.

Equipped to Provide Performance and Efficiency
The Transit Connect Sport is based on the SWB 200 van. The Tourneo Connect Sport is also uniquely available as a SWB derivative. They are both fitted with the acclaimed 1.8-litre Duratorq TDCi engine. Delivering 110 PS, this engine is the most powerful of the three available to Transit Connect customers, delivering
280 Nm of torque.

"With the Sport range we offer performance and style in a van that reflects the driver's personality and makes a positive statement about their business activities," said Collareno "With the Transit Connect Sport and Tourneo Connect Sport models we have tailored the specifications and equipment to preferences in the markets where it will be sold. We're confident our customers will respond positively to this great looking, sporty new vehicle."

In parallel with Ford Motor Company's ongoing global commitment to sustainability, the Transit Connect range is now available with a c-DPF (coated Diesel Particulate Filter.) It is available as an option on two of the three power outputs of the 1.8-litre Duratorq TDCi – the 110 PS and 90 PS. Compliant with Euro Stage IV regulations, the c-DPF is of a design that re-generates itself. If normal driving conditions are maintained, there is no need for special servicing or individual attention to be given to the c-DPF.