22 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards, but that’s not the priority of the 2016 Ford Transit Connect Wagon LWB FWD 2.5L 4-cyl. It’s a workhorse, a cargo hauler with the practicality of a van and some driveability of a car. Its fuel consumption is a compromise buyers willingly accept because larger vans or less capable SUVs often don’t meet their specific needs.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2016 Transit Connect LWB (long wheelbase) with the 2.5L four-cylinder engine and six-speed automatic transmission are 19 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The lower city MPG reflects the stop-and-go driving that this vehicle frequently encounters, whether it’s delivering packages or ferrying passengers around town. The highway figure is respectable and achievable when cruising at a steady speed on longer journeys. Remember that loading up the cargo area with heavy equipment or passengers will significantly impact both city and highway numbers. These MPG figures are for the gasoline-powered engine. A diesel engine was sold in other model years, offering significantly better fuel economy.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates an annual fuel cost of $2,000 for the 2016 Ford Transit Connect Wagon LWB FWD 2.5L 4-cyl. This estimate assumes 15,000 miles of driving per year with a mix of city and highway conditions, and is based on national average fuel prices at the time of testing. Your actual fuel cost will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and local fuel prices where you live. If you drive more than 15,000 miles per year, or if fuel prices in your area are significantly higher than the national average, expect your annual fuel costs to exceed this figure.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standardized benchmark, but real-world fuel economy often differs. Drivers of the 2016 Transit Connect report that achieving the EPA’s combined MPG of 22 MPG requires conscious effort and a light foot. Driving style, load weight, and tire pressure all play a critical role. Owners frequently report city fuel economy hovering closer to 17-18 MPG in heavy traffic, while highway fuel economy can climb to 28-30 MPG with careful driving. Regular maintenance, including timely oil changes and air filter replacements, is critical for maintaining optimal fuel efficiency. If you are not getting the MPG you expect, start with the basics and check the mechanical health of your van. You can also find TRANSIT MPG across all years on this site.

How it compares

The 2016 Transit Connect competes against other small vans and some SUVs. The Ram ProMaster City, another popular option in this segment, offers similar fuel economy with its 2.4L engine, around 21 MPG combined. Full-size vans like the Ford Transit 150 with its base 3.7L V6 engine get significantly worse fuel economy, often in the 14-16 MPG range combined. Compact SUVs like the Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4 offer better fuel economy (around 28-30 MPG combined), but they lack the cargo capacity and configurable interior space of the Transit Connect. The Nissan NV200, a smaller competitor, also offers around 24 MPG combined. Buyers choose the Transit Connect despite slightly lower MPG than some alternatives because of its combination of cargo space, maneuverability, and relatively low running costs compared to larger vans. Be sure to check all Ford fuel economy data when shopping.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 2.5L four-cylinder engine in the 2016 Transit Connect responds well to smooth, gradual acceleration. Avoid sudden bursts of speed and maintain a steady pace whenever possible. Anticipate traffic flow and try to avoid unnecessary braking. This will not only improve your fuel economy but also reduce wear and tear on your brakes.

Tire pressure is often overlooked, but it has an important impact on fuel economy. Check your tires regularly and ensure they are inflated to the recommended pressure, which can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel efficiency. A simple tire pressure gauge can save you money over time.

Consider removing any unnecessary weight from the vehicle. The heavier the load, the more fuel the engine will consume. Clear out any tools, equipment, or other items that you don’t need on a regular basis. Even small weight reductions can add up over time and improve your fuel economy.

Pay attention to your driving environment. Headwinds and hilly terrain can significantly reduce fuel efficiency. When possible, plan routes that minimize these factors. Using cruise control on relatively flat highway stretches can help you maintain a consistent speed and optimize fuel consumption. Consider using a fuel tracking app to monitor your MPG and identify areas for improvement.