While 22 MPG combined won’t top any fuel efficiency charts, the 2018 Ford Transit Connect Wagon LWB FFV 2.5L 4-cyl should be considered for its intended purpose: a versatile vehicle for hauling both people and cargo. Buyers of this configuration prioritize utility over fuel economy. They need space, flexibility, and flex-fuel capability, and they’re willing to accept average fuel consumption to get it.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Transit Connect Wagon LWB FFV at 19 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the fuel economy impact of stop-and-go driving. The highway number is better, showing the efficiency of the 2.5L engine and six-speed automatic transmission at steady speeds. Remember, 27 MPG is achievable under light loading conditions. With more passengers and cargo, especially on hills, expect lower highway fuel efficiency. The 2.5L engine, while adequate, has to work harder under load, using more gas.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Ford Transit Connect Wagon LWB FFV at $2,000. This calculation assumes 15,000 miles per year and a national average fuel price. This is a useful starting point, but individual fuel costs will vary. Drivers who drive more miles or live in areas with high fuel costs should expect to pay more annually. Those who drive less or live in areas with cheaper fuel will pay less. The $2,000 figure should be viewed as a guide.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standardized test, but real-world fuel economy depends on driving style, load, and the environment. If you’re frequently hauling cargo, driving fast, or spending time in heavy traffic, expect fuel economy on the lower end of the EPA range. Proper tire inflation and regular maintenance, like air filter replacements, will help maintain good fuel economy.

Gentle acceleration, anticipating traffic, and avoiding unnecessary idling can help you achieve fuel economy closer to the EPA estimates. Using E85 fuel, while possible with the FFV engine, will reduce fuel economy compared to gasoline.

How it compares

The 2018 Transit Connect Wagon LWB FFV exists in a unique segment. The Ram ProMaster City Wagon, another small cargo van with passenger configurations, offers similar utility but typically has slightly worse fuel economy, around 21 MPG combined. Its larger engine may feel more responsive when loaded. The Nissan NV200, focused on commercial use, is smaller and can achieve slightly better city MPG.

Comparing the Transit Connect to traditional SUVs isn’t straightforward, as SUVs often prioritize comfort and features over cargo capacity. However, some larger SUVs like the Ford Explorer (around 20 MPG combined with its base engine) offer similar passenger capacity but cost more and have less flexible cargo space. Transit Connect buyers often prioritize practicality and affordability over maximizing fuel savings, making the fuel economy trade-off acceptable for their needs. Newer Transit Connects offer different MPG, You can find all TRANSIT MPG across all years and all Ford fuel economy data which may help you select the right model.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Anticipate traffic and maintain a steady speed. Avoid hard acceleration and braking because these actions consume more fuel than smooth changes. This driving style is more critical in the city, where stop-and-go driving is frequent. Maintaining a consistent speed on the highway and using cruise control when possible will also improve MPG.

Keep your tires properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and reducing fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially when temperatures change, which can affect tire pressure.

Minimize idling. An engine consumes fuel even when stationary. Turn off the engine if you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute. This is important for those who use the Transit Connect for deliveries or other tasks that involve frequent stops.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra weight reduces fuel economy, even more so in a vehicle designed for hauling. Remove any items you don’t need from the cargo area. The 2.5L engine in the Transit Connect Wagon isn’t very powerful, so minimizing weight is helpful.

Pay attention to the fuel type. While the FFV engine can run on E85, E85 has less energy per gallon than gasoline, resulting in lower fuel economy. Only use E85 if it costs significantly less per gallon than gasoline to compensate for the lower MPG.