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POWER RANGER
Page 60
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Ford has given its Transit Conned a boost in power for those who like their light CVs to have a little extra in reserve.
We'll tell you straight off that our opinion of Ford'sTransit Connect is high —it's good to drive. has a practical load area, and is exceptionally well built.
CM recently tested the new-look Euro-4 version in 230L 90 (89hp) long-wheelbase (LWB) guise (CM19April 2007) and,just as when we first drove it in 2003, all was well.
What defines the Connect in comparison to the majority of its high-cube peers is its sense of strength, which makes it feel like a larger van—in a good way.This does come at a cost; the LWB 2301_, weighs in at 2,280kg GVW compared with aVauxhall Combo at 1,995kg, though payload is competitive at 900kg for this particular model, It had two engine outputs— 74hp and 89hp — depending on your needs and vehicle weight; both did the job more than satisfactorily. But as its nearest rival, the Volkswagen Caddy, comes with 103hp,Ford has deemed it necessary to increase the output of the 1.8-litre turbo-diesel unit to 109hp, with 250Nm of torque spread from 1,500 to 3,200rpm. On top of this there is also a transient overboost function that raises torque to 280Nm for limited periods when on full throttle.
From the outside, the Connect (even in LWB mode, which also raises the roof height), looks well proportioned and purposeful.These attributes are carried into the interior, which is co-ordinated and practical, offering an excellent driving position with plenty of adjustment. Switchgear is clearly labelled and sensibly positioned, working with a precision evident in all the fitments. Storage is catered for by accommodating door bins, central file holder, overhead parcel shelf and a few small cubbies.
On the road the Ford continues to impress, with its chassis offering high levels of composure and compliancy over different road types, whether laden or unladen:The suspension absorbs bumps and undulations without a murmur, keeping the driver well insulated and relaxed over long journeys. It also steers and brakes with precision, giving confidence in harsher conditions.
The increased power is evident when accelerating,but not outrageously so. Granted, the mid-range grunt gives the Connect useful overtaking ability, though the power delivery is biased towards higher revs.
The torque curve may be quoted as having plateau-like characteristics from low-down, but in reality it arrives later than you would expect and comes in a wave, pulling you forward in a brisk manner.This is fine when you are carrying a load or going through the gears, but on initial take-off it demands that you feather the clutch and throttle to avoid lurching forward.
Urban work with light loads could become a chore if you're. after a relaxing drive, while fuel consumption takes a notable drop over the 89hp version. A laden run achieved 36.4mpg (89hp-40.8mpg) while unladen the figure increased to 41.2 (89hp — 43.6mpg). is