The 2018 Ford Transit Connect Van with the 2.5L engine gets 23 MPG combined, which is practical for small business owners and entrepreneurs. This van is a tool, and fuel efficiency matters when your livelihood depends on it. Understanding its fuel performance is critical.

City and highway performance

Breaking down the combined figure, you get 20 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The city figure is the most relevant since Transit Connects are often used for deliveries and service calls typically involving stop-and-go driving. The 2.5L four-cylinder engine and six-speed automatic transmission are calibrated for predictable, reliable power delivery.

The 27 MPG highway figure is reasonable for longer trips between job sites, but a fully loaded van will see that number drop. The transmission shifts smoothly and makes good use of the engine’s torque. It’s built to last and handle commercial use demands.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $1,900 for this Transit Connect configuration based on driving 15,000 miles per year with a mix of city and highway driving, using national average fuel prices. This $1,900 is a benchmark. If you drive significantly more than 15,000 miles or spend more time in heavy traffic, you’ll exceed it. If you mainly take short or infrequent trips, you may spend less. Fuel prices fluctuate, so this is an estimation based on the prevailing rates at the time of testing. For businesses needing to monitor expenses closely, tracking fuel as a percentage of total revenue can ensure continued operation.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized testing procedure, real-world fuel economy varies. Load weight is a significant factor. A van always loaded with heavy equipment or tools will see lower MPG than an empty one. Driving style plays a role. Aggressive acceleration and braking will negatively impact fuel consumption, even in a low-powered vehicle like the Transit Connect.

Terrain also matters. Driving in hilly or mountainous areas requires more engine effort, translating to lower fuel economy compared to flat, open roads. Payload capacity for this model is adequate for most light-duty commercial applications. Pushing its cargo capacity limits will result in a noticeable drop in fuel efficiency. Consider all Ford fuel economy data to get a wider view.

How it compares

Compared to other small cargo vans like the Ram ProMaster City (24 MPG combined) and the Nissan NV200 (25 MPG combined), the 2018 Transit Connect’s 23 MPG is similar. The ProMaster City gets one MPG better, while the NV200 beats it by two. These differences may be negligible based on your specific driving conditions and payload requirements. A larger van, like a full-size Ford Transit, will have significantly lower fuel economy, often in the teens. Even its larger sibling, the TRANSIT MPG across all years, varies considerably depending on configuration. The Mercedes-Benz Metris, another competitor in this class, offered similar fuel economy to the Transit Connect, but at a higher price. For small business owners, comparing not just MPG but also overall cost of ownership including maintenance and reliability is key to making a sound financial decision.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Regular maintenance is important. Ensure that your Transit Connect’s tires are properly inflated because low tire pressure increases rolling resistance and reduces fuel economy. Follow Ford’s recommended maintenance schedule for oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug maintenance. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently.

Minimize idling. Avoid unnecessary idling, especially for long periods. Modern engines consume fuel even when stationary, and idling offers no benefit; turn off the engine if you’re stopped for more than a minute or two.

Drive smoothly. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed when possible. Gradual acceleration and smooth deceleration conserve fuel and reduce wear and tear on your vehicle.

Reduce load weight. Carry only the necessary tools and equipment. Remove unnecessary items from your van to reduce weight. Every extra pound adds to fuel consumption, particularly in city driving.

Plan your routes efficiently. Optimize your routes to minimize mileage and avoid congested areas. Use navigation apps to find the most direct and fuel-efficient pathways and avoid unnecessary detours or stop-and-go traffic.