16 MPG combined. No, it’s not winning any awards, but for the 2017 Ford Transit T150 Wagon FFV 3.7L 6-cyl, it’s simply what it costs to drive it. This isn’t a vehicle purchased for its fuel sipping. It’s chosen for its large interior, its unmatched versatility, and its ability to haul people and cargo in ways few other vehicles can. Buyers of this Transit understand that efficiency is less important than functionality, and they’ve likely accepted frequent trips to the gas station.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2017 Transit T150 Wagon at 14 MPG in the city and 18 MPG on the highway. These figures show the challenges of moving a large, boxy vehicle through stop-and-go traffic or at consistent highway speeds. The 3.7L V6 engine, while generally reliable and capable, needs to work hard to overcome the Transit’s weight and aerodynamic profile, resulting in lower fuel economy than a typical passenger car or even a smaller SUV. Buyers often prioritize cargo capacity and passenger space over optimal MPG, and that’s the compromise they make.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Ford Transit T150 Wagon FFV 3.7L 6-cyl at $2,750. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. It’s a significant expense, and potential buyers should carefully consider this cost when budgeting for vehicle ownership. Actual fuel costs can vary depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel used. The FFV designation means this Transit can run on E85, which may be cheaper but delivers even worse MPG. Considering all Ford fuel economy data is always prudent.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized estimate, real-world fuel economy for the Transit T150 Wagon can vary quite a bit. Driving with a full load of passengers or cargo will significantly decrease fuel efficiency. Aggressive driving habits, such as rapid acceleration and hard braking, will also negatively impact MPG. Gentle acceleration and consistent speeds on the highway can help to improve fuel economy closer to the EPA estimates. Owners report that diligent maintenance, including regular oil changes and tire inflation, makes a difference in fuel usage over time. Factors like headwind, tire pressure and ambient temperature all impact the final figure. Always look up TRANSIT MPG across all years to get a sense of the trends.

How it compares

Compared to other vans in its class, the 2017 Ford Transit T150 Wagon FFV’s fuel economy is generally what you’d expect. The Ram ProMaster, for instance, with its standard 3.6L V6, offers similar MPG figures in the low-to-mid teens. The Mercedes-Benz Metris, a smaller van option, achieves better fuel economy, typically around 20 MPG combined, but sacrifices significant cargo and passenger space. Even larger SUVs like the Chevrolet Suburban (around 18 MPG combined with the 5.3L V8) can be more fuel-efficient, but they lack the sheer volume and versatility of the Transit. The Nissan NV200, a much smaller cargo van, gets significantly better MPG (around 25 MPG combined), but it only hauls cargo, not people.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Driving style is important in maximizing fuel economy in the Transit T150 Wagon. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible. The Transit’s boxy shape creates significant aerodynamic drag, so every bit of momentum you can maintain helps conserve fuel.

Proper tire inflation is critical for fuel efficiency. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended levels, which can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door.

Reduce unnecessary weight. The Transit T150 Wagon is designed to haul a lot, but carrying excessive cargo or equipment when it’s not needed will negatively impact fuel economy. Only carry what you actually need for each trip.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed can prevent unnecessary fluctuations in throttle position and fuel consumption. However, be mindful of hills and traffic conditions, as cruise control may struggle to maintain efficiency in certain situations.