24 MPG combined won’t win any hypermiling competitions, but it makes the 2015 Ford Transit Connect Van acceptably frugal for small business owners and tradespeople who rely on it. This isn’t a vehicle purchased for weekend joyrides. It’s a tool, and like any good tool, it needs to be relatively inexpensive to operate. Every penny saved on fuel is a penny that goes back into the business.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2015 Transit Connect Van equipped with the 2.5L four-cylinder engine and six-speed automatic transmission are 21 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban deliveries and job site visits, where the Transit Connect may spend a significant amount of time idling. The highway number, while better, still reflects the aerodynamic compromises inherent in a tall, boxy vehicle designed for maximum cargo volume. These figures are for the 2WD configuration. If you need all-wheel drive, you’ll typically see a dip in fuel economy.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2015 Ford Transit Connect Van 2WD 2.5L at $1,800. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using a blend of city and highway driving, and assumes fuel prices based on national averages. Your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do (mostly city vs. mostly highway), and the price of gasoline in your area. Comparing this $1,800 figure against other vans and your current vehicle allows you to assess potential savings or increased expenses.

Real-world expectations

EPA figures are a good starting point, but real-world fuel economy can differ. Factors such as vehicle load, driving style, and even tire pressure can impact your mileage.

Owners who frequently carry heavy loads should expect to see their MPG figures trend toward the lower end of the EPA range, that additional weight simply requires more energy to move. Aggressive driving habits, like rapid acceleration and hard braking, will also negatively affect fuel economy.

Conversely, those who prioritize smooth acceleration, maintain consistent speeds, and keep their van lightly loaded may see results that meet or even slightly exceed the EPA estimates. Looking at TRANSIT MPG across all years gives further insight into user reported figures.

How it compares

Compared to other small vans of the era, the 2015 Transit Connect offers competitive fuel economy. The Ram ProMaster City, another popular choice for small businesses, achieves a combined EPA rating of 24 MPG with its 2.4L engine. The Nissan NV200, a slightly smaller and less powerful option, manages 25 MPG combined with its 2.0L engine.

The important thing is understanding the tradeoffs. The Transit Connect provides a good balance of cargo capacity, payload, and fuel efficiency. If cargo space is important, a larger van like the full-size Ford Transit (check all Ford fuel economy data) might be necessary, but expect a significant hit to fuel economy, its heavier weight and larger engine typically result in combined MPG figures in the high teens. For the type of business that needs a compact work van, the 2015 Transit Connect is a strong contender given its blend of practicality and running costs.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key to maximizing fuel economy. Avoid flooring the accelerator, especially when starting from a stop. The 2.5L engine provides adequate power for everyday driving without needing to be pushed hard. Anticipate traffic flow and try to maintain a smooth, consistent speed to avoid unnecessary braking and accelerating.

Regular maintenance keeps the engine running efficiently. Ensure the tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure, as this reduces rolling resistance. Also, follow the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule for oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug maintenance.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Hauling around extra tools or equipment you don’t need impacts fuel economy. Periodically assess the contents of your van and remove items that aren’t essential for the day’s work.

Minimize idling. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. The restart won’t use more fuel than the idling did.