22 MPG combined isn’t going to win any efficiency awards, but for the 2019 Ford Transit Connect USPS with the 2.5L 4-cylinder engine, it’s a reasonable compromise. This isn’t a personal commuter vehicle; it’s a workhorse designed for delivering mail. The United States Postal Service prioritizes reliability, cargo capacity, and ease of access over Prius-like fuel consumption. The Transit Connect is built to get the job done within the constraints of its intended application.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2019 Ford Transit Connect USPS at 20 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. This split reflects the vehicle’s operational realities. City mail routes demand constant stop-and-go driving, idling, and low-speed maneuvers, which take a toll on fuel economy. The USPS vehicles spend a lot of time working on city routes. The 2.5L engine, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, provides adequate power for these tasks, but it doesn’t prioritize fuel sipping. The highway figure, while better, isn’t stellar compared to smaller vehicles. The Transit Connect’s boxy shape and cargo load create aerodynamic challenges at higher speeds. For the USPS driver, the number is what it is, and their only concern is delivering the mail on time and safely.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for operating a 2019 Ford Transit Connect USPS at $2,000. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using national average fuel prices at the time of calculation. For the USPS, this $2,000 figure is just one part of a larger operational budget that includes fleet maintenance costs, driver salaries, and other overhead expenses. While fuel economy plays a role in budget considerations, the reliability and utility of the Transit Connect in its specific role likely outweigh minor differences in annual fuel costs compared to alternative vehicles.

Real-world expectations

Do not expect to replicate the EPA numbers exactly. Real-world fuel economy will fluctuate based on factors like driving style, route conditions, cargo weight, and even the weather. USPS drivers often operate on fixed routes with consistent stops, meaning their fuel consumption will be relatively predictable. However, heavy loads of mail, particularly around the holiday season, will reduce fuel efficiency. Aggressive acceleration and braking, while potentially tempting to stay on schedule, also negatively impact mileage. The best way to approach fuel economy with this vehicle is to drive smoothly, maintain consistent speeds where possible, and avoid unnecessary idling.

How it compares

The 2019 Ford Transit Connect USPS doesn’t have a direct competitor in the mail-delivery segment; it’s in a vehicle class of its own. However, when looking at other compact vans, the Ram ProMaster City achieves around 24 MPG combined, offering a fuel economy advantage. Even a larger van like the Ford Transit cargo van with the 3.5L EcoBoost engine is capable of around 17 MPG, showing even larger vans have improved fuel economy, but for USPS, size and cargo capacity requirements are important. Review TRANSIT MPG across all years to see the full performance range of these vehicles. The Transit Connect is likely chosen for its maneuverability in urban environments and its cargo capacity to footprint ratio, sacrificing some fuel efficiency for enhanced practicality in its intended role. For those interested in other Ford models, check all Ford fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration pays dividends. The 2.5L engine responds well to a smooth, gradual application of the accelerator pedal. Avoid stomping on the gas, as this will quickly deplete your fuel reserves. Anticipating traffic flow and maintaining a consistent speed will minimize the need for frequent acceleration and braking.

Reduce idling time whenever possible. Idling consumes fuel without adding any miles to the odometer. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Restarting is more fuel-efficient than prolonged idling. This is especially crucial with the 2.5L engine, which isn’t designed with advanced fuel-saving technologies like auto start-stop.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level. These guidelines are typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb or in the owner’s manual. Remember to check when the tires are cold for the most accurate reading.

Minimize cargo weight where possible. While the Transit Connect is designed to carry substantial loads, unnecessary weight will negatively impact fuel efficiency. Try to remove any non-essential items from the cargo area. Even small reductions in weight can add up over time, improving your overall mileage.