Ford has lifted the wraps off a new facelift version of the automaker's smallest van, the Transit Connect, for the 2019 model year at this week's Chicago Auto Show, marking the first time the model has been refreshed since the second-generation Transit Connect Wagon was introduced back in 2009. Designed for entrepreneurs and baby boomers, the spacious van features a fresh new face, new engine options, and added tech "without the expensive minivan price tag."

For the first time in the US, the 2019 Transit Connect is available with an all-new 1.5-liter EcoBlue diesel engine that was recently introduced in Europe for the EcoSport crossover. Visually, the front fascia has been redesigned with new headlights and LED running lights, along with optional LED foglights. Available in two wheelbases to accommodate five or seven passengers and in three trim levels, XL, XLT and Titanium, the spacious, flexible interior makes loading cargo easier as the rear seats can fold flat to the floor. For added convenience, the Ford minivan features dual sliding doors, while roof rails extend its versatility allowing you to transport bikes, kayaks, stand-up paddle boards or luggage on the roof.

If you want to tow a trailer wit the Transit Connect Wagon, an available trailer tow package is expected to offer unsurpassed towing capability of 2,000 pounds. The instrument panel has also been redesigned, featuring an optional 6.5-inch floating touch screen, a digital driver information center in the cluster, and available wireless charging for mobile devices. In terms of tech, the new Transit Connect Wagon features new driver-assist features, including Automatic Emergency Braking as standard as well as Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection to help avoid collisions with other vehicles and pedestrians.

Adaptive Cruise Control is also available for highway driving as an optional extra, along with Blind Spot Information System with Cross-Traffic Alert which uses a radar to detect surrounding vehicles. There's no pricing information available yet, but Ford promises the 2019 Transit Connect Wagon will be one of the most affordable seven-passenger vehicles in the US when it goes on sale in the fall.

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