The Ford Grand Tourneo Connect II 1.6 Duratorq TDCi (95 horsepower) with Start/Stop technology represents an entry-level offering within the second generation of Ford’s compact people carrier, produced from 2014 to 2015. Positioned as a practical and fuel-efficient option, this variant catered to buyers prioritizing affordability and functionality over outright performance. It shared its platform – the 1HX0/A3 – with other Ford and joint-venture vehicles, including the Ford C-Max and the Renault Scenic. The Grand Tourneo Connect, in general, aimed to provide a spacious and versatile alternative to traditional small hatchbacks, particularly for families.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Tourneo Connect |
| Generation | Grand Tourneo Connect II |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 Duratorq TDCi (95 Hp) S&S |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg, 61.4 UK mpg, 21.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 121 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 15.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 15.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 14.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 160 km/h (99.42 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Power | 95 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Torque | 230 Nm @ 1500-2000 rpm (169.64 lb.-ft. @ 1500-2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | TZGA, TZGB |
| Engine displacement | 1560 cm3 (95.2 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 88.3 mm (3.48 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.2 l (6.55 US qt | 5.46 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.3 l (7.71 US qt | 6.42 UK qt) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1529 l (54 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2761 l (97.5 cu. ft.) |
| Length | 4818 mm (189.69 in.) |
| Width | 1835 mm (72.24 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1966 mm (77.4 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2137 mm (84.13 in.) |
| Height | 1845 mm (72.64 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2662 mm (104.8 in.) |
| Front track | 1568 mm (61.73 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1584 mm (62.36 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 12.2 m (40.03 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Semi-dependent beam with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 320 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 280 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Grand Tourneo Connect variant is the 1.6-liter Duratorq TDCi diesel engine, specifically the TZGA or TZGB engine code. This engine is a four-cylinder, inline configuration, utilizing a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. A key feature is its turbocharger with intercooler, which helps to boost power and improve efficiency. The engine employs a diesel common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at high pressure for optimized combustion. The 95 horsepower output is achieved at 3500 rpm, while peak torque of 230 Nm (169.64 lb.-ft.) is available between 1500 and 2000 rpm. This relatively low-end torque delivery is characteristic of diesel engines and contributes to the vehicle’s usability in everyday driving. The engine is paired with a five-speed manual transmission, chosen for its simplicity and cost-effectiveness in this entry-level trim.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 Duratorq TDCi 95 hp engine, coupled with the five-speed manual gearbox, provides adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes around 14.3 seconds, and top speed is limited to 99.42 mph. The focus is on fuel economy rather than speed. The gear ratios are tuned for maximizing efficiency, meaning the engine can feel strained when accelerating quickly or climbing hills. Compared to higher-output versions of the Grand Tourneo Connect, such as those with the 1.6-liter engine in a higher state of tune or the 1.0 EcoBoost petrol engine, this variant feels noticeably slower. However, the plentiful low-end torque makes it suitable for urban driving and carrying loads. The manual transmission allows for greater driver control compared to an automatic, but requires more driver involvement.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 Duratorq TDCi (95 hp) S&S typically represented the base trim level for the Grand Tourneo Connect II. Standard equipment generally included power steering, ABS, driver and passenger airbags, and basic audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional, if somewhat basic, design. Optional extras could include air conditioning, alloy wheels, parking sensors, and upgraded audio systems. The “S&S” designation indicates the inclusion of Ford’s Start/Stop system, which automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary to improve fuel economy.
Chassis & Braking
The Grand Tourneo Connect II utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension setup at the front, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling. The rear suspension employs a semi-dependent beam with a stabilizer bar, which helps to reduce body roll. Brakes are ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The braking system is adequate for the vehicle’s weight and performance, with ABS providing additional safety. The steering is a rack and pinion system, offering reasonable precision and feedback.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.6 Duratorq TDCi (95 hp) variant of the Grand Tourneo Connect II was generally well-received as a practical and economical choice. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and spacious interior, but noted its lack of outright performance. Compared to the more powerful engine options, this variant offered a lower purchase price and better fuel economy, making it attractive to budget-conscious buyers. The 1.0 EcoBoost petrol engine offered a more refined driving experience, but at the cost of fuel economy. The higher-powered diesel variants provided more performance but were more expensive to purchase and operate.
Legacy
The 1.6 Duratorq TDCi engine, in various states of tune, proved to be a reliable and durable powerplant. While not without its potential issues (such as diesel particulate filter problems if not properly maintained), it generally offered good longevity. In the used car market, the 95 hp variant of the Grand Tourneo Connect II remains a popular choice for those seeking an affordable and practical people carrier. Its simplicity and relatively low running costs make it an attractive option for families and small businesses. However, potential buyers should be aware of the importance of regular maintenance, particularly regarding the diesel particulate filter and turbocharger.
