The 2017 Ford Transit Connect Van 2WD 2.5L 4-cyl gets 23 MPG combined. This is acceptable for a reliable work vehicle designed for small businesses and delivery services. It provides a balance of practicality, cargo capacity, and acceptable running costs, instead of aiming for maximum fuel efficiency. This van prioritizes utility over outright fuel sipping, and most owners accept that trade-off.

City and highway performance

The Transit Connect’s EPA ratings are 20 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban deliveries, which is a common scenario for this van. Expect lower MPG if you’re frequently stuck in heavy traffic or idling for extended periods. The 27 MPG highway rating is achievable on longer trips, assuming a steady speed and a reasonable payload. Drivers often find that keeping the van lightly loaded significantly improves highway fuel economy. Remember that the aerodynamic profile of a van isn’t good for maximizing MPG at higher speeds, so moderation is key.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2017 Ford Transit Connect Van 2WD 2.5L 4-cyl is $1,900. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using a national average fuel price. Your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do (city vs. highway), and local fuel prices. A driver who primarily uses the van for short trips in urban areas may exceed this estimate, while someone covering mostly highway miles could potentially spend less.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standardized rating, but real-world fuel economy can vary. Owners report figures ranging from slightly below the EPA estimates to slightly above, depending on their usage patterns. Cargo weight, driving style, tire pressure, and weather conditions can all influence fuel efficiency. A fully loaded van driven aggressively will naturally consume more fuel than an empty van driven conservatively. Regular maintenance, including timely oil changes and air filter replacements, also plays a critical role in maintaining optimal fuel economy. It is a tool that needs to be kept in shape if you want maximum possible efficency.

How it compares

The 2017 Ram ProMaster City, another popular compact cargo van, achieves an EPA-estimated 21 MPG combined. The Nissan NV200, a smaller and more affordable option, offers a similar combined MPG in the 24-25 MPG range. These minor differences can add up over time, but the Transit Connect’s appeal often lies in its slightly larger cargo capacity and more refined driving experience. For businesses considering larger vans, the full-size Ford Transit (see TRANSIT MPG across all years) offers significantly more space, but delivers much lower fuel economy, typically in the 14-17 MPG combined range. The key is to balance space, capability and fuel efficiency for what suits your business perfectly.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The 2.5L engine in the Transit Connect responds well to a smooth and steady driving style. Gentle acceleration and anticipating traffic conditions can significantly reduce fuel consumption, especially in stop-and-go city driving. Minimize excessive idling to save fuel, especially during deliveries. Simply turning off the engine while making stops or waiting can make a noticeable difference over time.

Maintain proper tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tires regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure, which can be found on the sticker inside the driver’s side door. This is particularly important when carrying heavy loads, as proper tire pressure ensures optimal contact with the road.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying around extra weight in the van consumes more fuel. Remove any unnecessary tools, equipment, or materials that are not needed for your daily operations. Organizing your cargo efficiently can also help distribute weight evenly and improve fuel efficiency.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed on long stretches of highway can optimize fuel economy. Cruise control helps prevent unintentional speeding and maintains a steady throttle, leading to improved MPG. Be mindful of traffic conditions and adjust your speed accordingly.

Keep up with regular maintenance. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug inspections. Addressing any mechanical issues promptly can also prevent fuel wastage and extend the life of your Transit Connect.