Anyone have a Ford Transit Connect?

[nuliajuk]

We're looking at what we could replace our Caravan with in a couple years time, and the Transit Connect is on our list of models to consider as well.
From what I've read so far, they're made in Turkey as passenger vehicles to avoid something called the "chicken tax" when imported, then some are converted to commercial use after arriving. So, in theory at least, the full-on passenger version should be cheaper as it has required no conversion. Something to use as a bargaining chip when buying, maybe?
They look a lot like the Citroen Berlingo - I wonder if Ford and Citroen have any connection?

[tulip]

I've heard that the Ford Transit Connect are a pretty rough ride. If you are used to a passenger vehicle, the switch to a cargo vehicle can seem pretty harsh--ride and noise.

What about one of those boxy things--I don't know what they are called but the hamsters (or are they rats?) drive them in the ads.

[emily_in_nc]

We're looking at what we could replace our Caravan with in a couple years time, and the Transit Connect is on our list of models to consider as well.
From what I've read so far, they're made in Turkey as passenger vehicles to avoid something called the "chicken tax" when imported, then some are converted to commercial use after arriving. So, in theory at least, the full-on passenger version should be cheaper as it has required no conversion. Something to use as a bargaining chip when buying, maybe?

Unfortunately, not so. In my research I read that ALL of them are converted to cargo vans (seats removed, windows replaced with metal, etc) when they come to the USA. Then a small number are converted BACK to passenger vans to be used by taxi and other companies, at the buyer's expense. Absolutely screwy!

Make sure to read the reviews link I posted somewhere above. Reading some of those reviews was enough to scare my DH and me off from the current model, and we were quite gung-ho before that.

[emily_in_nc]

I've heard that the Ford Transit Connect are a pretty rough ride. If you are used to a passenger vehicle, the switch to a cargo vehicle can seem pretty harsh--ride and noise.

What about one of those boxy things--I don't know what they are called but the hamsters (or are they rats?) drive them in the ads.

And since I am used to a beach bike on unpaved gravel and cobblestone roads, I expect the Transit Connect would not feel too rough a ride.

Not sure about the "boxy things" -- have not seen that ad.

[ny biker]

And since I am used to a beach bike on unpaved gravel and cobblestone roads, I expect the Transit Connect would not feel too rough a ride.

Not sure about the "boxy things" -- have not seen that ad.

I think the boxy things in the commercials are made by Kia.

I binged "Kia box" and found this from a few years ago

http://www.automobilemag.com/reviews...n/viewall.html