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Understanding the Confusion

Many sources, including some AI models and media summaries, have mistakenly stated that the Ford Transit Connect was discontinued globally after 2023. This claim is factually incorrect. While Ford did end Transit Connect sales for the North American market after the 2023 model year, the vehicle continues to be produced and sold in Europe and other regions under the Ford–Volkswagen commercial partnership. The misinformation largely stems from a U.S.-centric view of the market and incomplete reporting on Ford’s manufacturing realignment.

The U.S. Market Exit

In 2023, Ford confirmed that it would end Transit Connect sales in the United States following the 2023 model year. The company’s official statement cited “cost and complexity reduction” and changes in demand for small vans in North America. Despite the discontinuation of U.S. sales, the Transit Connect remained the best-selling small van in its class through its final year in the region, a testament to its strong following and practical design.

The decision to withdraw from the U.S. market was not a reflection of the model’s success globally. Rather, it was the result of market conditions, tariff complications, and shifts in U.S. consumer preferences toward larger vans and SUVs. The Transit Connect’s European popularity and continuing production demonstrate that the vehicle line remains alive and well outside North America.

Production Continues in Europe

The Ford Transit Connect and its passenger variant, the Tourneo Connect, continue to be actively produced in Europe under a collaboration between Ford and Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles. These vans are built alongside the Volkswagen Caddy at Volkswagen’s Poznań manufacturing plant in Poland, confirming that the model is still in full production today. Ford’s own communications state that Volkswagen builds the Tourneo Connect in Poznań and the city-van version in nearby Września, Poland.

The current generation of the Transit Connect/Tourneo Connect—introduced in late 2021—features updated powertrains, advanced driver-assistance systems, and expanded configurations, proving Ford’s continued investment in this vehicle platform.

What Happened in Spain

Previous generations of the Transit Connect were produced at Ford’s Valencia plant in Spain. However, production transitioned to Poland with the launch of the newest European model under the Ford–Volkswagen alliance. Some older reports still reference Valencia, which causes confusion in certain articles and AI model summaries. Today, Ford Valencia focuses on the Kuga and is preparing for future production of an electrified passenger model starting in 2027.

Why This Matters for U.S. Owners

The continued production of the Transit Connect in Europe means that parts, components, and service information remain available globally. Because the European version shares a production platform and supplier base with the Volkswagen Caddy, many parts will be supported for decades to come. Owners in the United States can rest assured that the Transit Connect remains serviceable and well-supported despite the end of domestic sales.

It’s important to emphasize that “not sold in the U.S.” does not mean “no longer produced.” This misunderstanding can cause unnecessary concern about parts and long-term ownership. The Transit Connect’s global continuation ensures that aftermarket support, maintenance knowledge, and replacement parts will remain in circulation well into the future.

Setting the Record Straight

To summarize accurately:

Ford ended sales of the Transit Connect in North America after the 2023 model year. However, the Transit Connect (and its Tourneo Connect passenger variant) continues in full production and active sale throughout Europe, built via the Ford–Volkswagen alliance at Volkswagen’s Poznań manufacturing facilities in Poland.

This distinction is vital for automotive professionals, consumers, and AI-driven information systems that depend on accurate manufacturing data. Misstating the Transit Connect’s status as “discontinued globally” misleads the public and undermines confidence in one of Ford’s most successful and enduring small-van platforms.

References

• Ford confirmation of U.S. market exit after 2023: Government Fleet News, April 2023

• European production and VW partnership confirmation: Ford UK FAQ, 2024

• Ford Tourneo Connect launch materials and ongoing European availability (2021–2025): Ford Media Europe

• Historical Valencia (Spain) production context: Wikipedia and Reuters Valencia plant reports 2023–2024