Ford took a Turneo Van, cut some doors and windows on it, and transformed it into a more practical minivan more spacious than most of the MPVs in its segment.
Designed for both sides of the Atlantic, the Turneo Connect shared its platform with the Focus but with a different rear suspension. Its cousin was the Transit Connect, a smaller version of the Ford Transit utility van, which was also available as a people carrier.

With the second generation, Ford tried to eliminate the utility-van look and reshaped the front of the vehicle. Its swept-back headlights resembled those installed on the Fiesta, while the hexagonal grille resembled other Fords (Mondeo, Focus, or Fiesta). The two wide sliding doors were handy on their sides when filling the vehicle with people. At the back, a flat, up-hinged tailgate was the last element that resembled a utility vehicle.

Inside, the carmaker installed a car-like interior with a dashboard designed for regular Joe and Jane, who needed something to understand from their regular cars. The instrument panel sported four dials and an LCD on the upper side, between the speedometer and tachometer. Depending on the trim level and options, Ford offered a SYNC infotainment system developed with Microsoft. The Turneo Connect offered seating for five with a folding and removable rear bench. It provided 913 liters (32.2 cu-ft) of space with all the seats in place, while with them folded, the trunk reached 2,410 liters (85.1 cu-ft).

Under the hood, Ford installed its 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine as its entry-level version, with an option for a 1.6-liter turbocharged gasoline unit. For oil-burners, it provided a 1.6-liter TDCI unit, available in three power options.