The 2018 Ford Transit T150 Wagon with the 3.7L V6 gets 16 MPG combined. This isn’t a vehicle purchased for sipping fuel. The T150 is a workhorse, a people-mover, a blank canvas for mobile businesses and large families. Fuel efficiency is a consideration, but it takes a backseat to capability, space, and reliability. Those who choose this Transit likely need the sheer volume it offers, and volume comes with a trade-off.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 14 MPG in the city and 18 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect the Transit’s size and aerodynamics, or rather, the lack thereof. City driving, with its stop-and-go nature, is the worst-case scenario for fuel consumption in a vehicle like this. The 3.7L V6 has to work hard to get the heavy van moving from a standstill. Highway driving improves slightly, but the Transit’s large frontal area creates significant wind resistance at higher speeds. Expect to see only slight improvements on long road trips unless you’re meticulously managing your speed.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Ford Transit T150 Wagon 3.7L V6 at $2,750. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. This is just an estimate, and actual fuel costs will vary. Your driving habits, the type of driving you do, and fuel prices in your area all have an effect. If you primarily drive in the city or have a heavy foot, you’ll likely exceed this estimate. If you are meticulous about driving, you *might* come under this figure, but it’s going to be close.

Real-world expectations

Real-world owners report MPG figures that generally align with the EPA estimates, though some report slightly lower numbers, particularly in city driving or when the van is heavily loaded. Expect to see somewhere between 13-16 MPG in mixed driving conditions. Consistent highway driving might push you closer to 18 MPG if you’re careful. Payload and cargo weight drastically affect fuel economy. The more weight you add, the lower your MPG will be. Remember to check TRANSIT MPG across all years to see how the 2018 model compares to later versions.

How it compares

The 2018 Ford Transit T150 doesn’t exist in a vacuum. The Nissan NV2500 HD with the 4.0L V6 is a direct competitor and achieves a similar 15 MPG combined. The Ram ProMaster 1500 with the 3.6L V6 is another option, offering around 17 MPG combined. The Mercedes-Benz Metris, while smaller, offers significantly better fuel economy, hovering around 21 MPG combined with its 2.0L turbocharged engine. The Metris offers less cargo space and payload capacity, making it unsuitable for some applications. These figures are important for buyers who are cross-shopping and weighing the trade-offs between fuel efficiency and practicality. If you’re considering other Ford vehicles, it’s helpful to view all Ford fuel economy data to see how the Transit fits within the broader lineup.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and smooth braking are vital. Avoid jackrabbit starts and hard stops, as these waste fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and coast whenever possible. The less you use the brakes, the better your fuel economy will be. This is especially important with such a large, heavy vehicle.

Tire pressure is another critical factor. Check your tires regularly and ensure they are inflated to the recommended pressure indicated on the doorjamb sticker. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Remove any cargo or equipment that you don’t need. Every pound counts, especially when the 3.7L V6 is already working hard to move the Transit’s considerable mass. Even small items can add up and negatively impact your MPG.

Minimize idling. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Idling consumes fuel without moving the vehicle. This is particularly important in urban environments where idling is common.

Consider your route. Try to avoid congested areas and routes with frequent stops and starts. Opt for routes with smoother traffic flow and fewer hills. Planning your route ahead of time can significantly improve your fuel economy.