Ford Transit Connect Family Concept: Innovative But Impractical?

When Ford announced a family-oriented version of its commercial Transit Connect van, automotive enthusiasts raised eyebrows. This unconventional approach to family transportation promises clever kid-friendly features but faces stiff competition from established compact SUVs and minivans. We analyze whether this boxy concept delivers genuine value or misses the mark for modern families.

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Design and First Impressions

The Transit Connect Family Concept maintains the commercial version's utilitarian box shape now arriving at U.S. dealerships. While Ford markets this as a "cool mom" vehicle, the aesthetics challenge conventional family car expectations:

• Identical exterior dimensions to the cargo van (178.9" length, 72.2" height)
• Unchanged 22/25 mpg city/highway fuel economy
• Base price comparable to compact SUVs at $22,475 (including destination)
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Questionable Design Choices

While some features show thoughtful innovation, others seem impractical for daily use:

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Competitive Landscape

At its $22,000+ price point, the Transit Connect faces formidable alternatives:

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Compact SUVs

• Toyota RAV4: 22/28 mpg with more passenger comfort
• Honda CR-V: Superior resale value and reliability scores
• Mazda CX-5: Premium interior at comparable pricing

Minivan Alternatives

• Kia Rondo: More seating for less money
• Mazda5: Compact dimensions with sliding doors
• Chrysler Pacifica: True family-hauling capabilities
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The Better Ford Alternative: S-Max

European buyers enjoy Ford's acclaimed S-Max - a legitimate family vehicle that combines:

• Sportier handling than conventional minivans
• Flexible 7-seat configuration
• Efficient turbocharged engine options
• Premium interior appointments
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Unlike the Transit Connect concept, the S-Max earned Euro NCAP's 5-star safety rating and tops European family vehicle rankings. Its absence in the U.S. market remains puzzling given its superior suitability for family needs.

Final Verdict

While Ford deserves credit for reimagining family transportation, the Transit Connect concept suffers from fundamental flaws:

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• Packaging: Commercial vehicle roots limit family-friendly refinement
• Value: Competitors offer better fuel efficiency and comfort
• Practicality: Niche features don't compensate for daily usability shortcomings

For American families, compact SUVs and traditional minivans remain smarter choices. Should Ford reconsider importing the S-Max instead? The European success story suggests U.S. families would benefit more from this proven people-mover than an adapted cargo van.

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