25 MPG, that’s the combined fuel economy rating for the 2016 Ford Transit Connect Van 2WD 1.6L 4-cylinder. It won’t win any awards for being green, but it’s a perfectly reasonable figure for exactly what this vehicle is: a compact, reliable work van primarily purchased by businesses that prioritize cargo space and maneuverability over using less gas. This Transit Connect isn’t chasing Prius owners; it’s chasing plumbers, electricians, caterers, and delivery drivers who need a practical tool that doesn’t punish them at the pump.

City and highway performance

The 1.6L EcoBoost engine, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, delivers an EPA-estimated 22 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. The city figure is particularly relevant, as these vans spend a significant amount of time navigating urban environments, stop-and-go traffic, and tight parking spaces. The 29 MPG highway rating, while decent, is less critical. Most fleet managers understand that loaded vans driven at high speeds will inevitably see a dip in fuel efficiency. However, it’s a welcome number for those longer trips between job sites.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $1,750 for the 2016 Ford Transit Connect Van 2WD 1.6L 4-cylinder. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Expenses will vary depending on local fuel costs and driving habits, but $1,750 offers a solid benchmark for prospective buyers to estimate their running costs. Fleet managers will be especially interested in this figure as any savings multiply rapidly across a large fleet of vehicles.

Real-world expectations

The EPA figures provide a standard, but it’s essential to remember that real-world mileage varies. Driving style, cargo weight, tire pressure, and even weather conditions can all affect fuel economy. A Transit Connect constantly loaded with heavy equipment and driven aggressively will likely fall short of the 25 MPG combined rating. Conversely, a lightly loaded van driven conservatively, with properly inflated tires and regular maintenance might exceed it. Manage expectations and understand that these figures are a baseline, not a guarantee.

How it compares

The 2016 Transit Connect 2WD 1.6L exists in a small class of commercially-focused, compact vans. The Ram ProMaster City, for example, typically achieves around 24 MPG combined with its 2.4L four-cylinder. Older versions of the Nissan NV200 are EPA-rated at 25 MPG combined, matching the Transit Connect’s rating, but often feel less refined and have a smaller cargo capacity. The Mercedes-Benz Metris, aiming for a slightly more premium market, gets somewhere closer to 22 MPG combined with its turbocharged 2.0L engine. For business owners, the slightly better fuel economy of the Transit Connect versus others on the market may not be a deciding factor alone, but can affect total cost of ownership when factored in over the vehicle’s lifespan. You can view all Ford fuel economy data on our website, and specifically see TRANSIT MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 1.6L EcoBoost engine benefits from a light foot. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking to conserve fuel. The automatic transmission is programmed for efficiency; let it do its job rather than trying to force downshifts.

Tire pressure is critical for optimal fuel economy. Regularly check and maintain the recommended tire pressure (found on the driver’s side doorjamb). Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, which decreases fuel efficiency.

Minimize unnecessary weight. Extra cargo adds load to the engine, forcing it to work harder and consume more fuel. Remove any non-essential items from the van to reduce weight and improve MPG.

Regular maintenance is key to long-term efficiency. Ensure the engine is properly tuned, the air filter is clean, and the oil is changed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. A well-maintained engine operates more efficiently.