Ford Transit Connect Taxi invades Hong Kong

Ford is taking World War T(axi) to Nissan with its Transit Connect Taxi, which added Hong Kong to its list of cities served on Monday.

Redesigned for 2014, the Transit Connect features a 2.5-liter four with a six-speed automatic transmission. That engine makes 175 hp and 170 lb-ft in the Fusion, but we’d expect it to produce less for fuel mileage purposes in the Transit. It will also be the only taxi in the States offered with a compressed natural gas and LPG engine prep package. The conversions are supported by Ford Qualified Vehicle Modifiers, which means that the modifiers are OK’d by Ford to build, service and repair the vehicles, while not voiding the factory warranty. Those looking for a little more pep could opt for the 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine, though horsepower numbers haven’t been released for this configuration either.

The second-generation Transit Connect has a lower step-in height than its predecessor, and a lower height overall, providing more roof clearance for taxi signs. The new Transit is also longer, allowing for more passenger space, even when a compressed natural gas tank is included. It can also be modified for wheelchair access and is rated at 60.5 cubic feet of space behind the second row.

The Nissan NV200, for its part, won’t go down without a fight. It’s already the official taxicab of New York City. Its 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine makes 131 hp and returns 24 mpg combined with a CVT. Passenger volume is rated at 55.6 cubic feet.

Ford
The Ford Transit Connect Taxi is now welcome in Hong Kong.

By Jake Lingeman