The 2019 Ford Transit Connect Van 2WD 2.5L 4-cyl gets 22 MPG combined, making it a practical workhorse, not an economy champion. Ford designed this van for small businesses or tradespeople who prioritize cargo capacity and maneuverability over Prius-like fuel efficiency. It’s a tool and, like any tool, its suitability depends on the job.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Transit Connect manages 20 MPG in the city. This is a reasonable figure considering the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, which frequently impacts fuel consumption. The 2.5L four-cylinder engine performs adequately in this environment, offering enough power to get the van moving with a decent load. The 27 MPG highway rating is more impressive. Constant speed cruising allows the engine to operate more efficiently, making longer commutes or delivery routes less painful at the pump. However, remember that loading the van with heavy cargo or driving at higher speeds will invariably reduce these numbers.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,000 for the 2019 Ford Transit Connect Van 2WD 2.5L 4-cyl. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using national average fuel prices. This figure provides a benchmark for potential owners. However, your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do (mostly city or highway), and local fuel prices. If you drive significantly more than 15,000 miles annually, or if fuel prices are higher in your area, expect to pay more. Conversely, if you drive less and prices are low, your costs will be lower. $2,000 is a significant operating cost for any business, and deserves careful consideration alongside other factors such as purchase price, maintenance, and insurance.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized test, real-world fuel economy always varies. Owners of the 2019 Transit Connect report that achieving the EPA’s 22 MPG combined rating is possible, but requires a conscientious driving style. Hustling hard between job sites, fully loaded, will see numbers drop into the high teens. Lightly loaded, sticking to speed limits on the open road, will push it toward the upper end of the EPA range. How you drive and the conditions matter. Don’t expect hybrid-like efficiency, but anticipate reasonable economy for a small commercial van.

How it compares

For buyers exploring small cargo vans, direct competitors provide context. The Ram ProMaster City, for example, achieves an EPA estimated 21 MPG combined, offering similar fuel economy. Compared to the larger full-size vans, the Transit Connect offers a distinct advantage: A Ford Transit, with its larger footprint and V6 engine, manages significantly lower fuel economy in the high teens. The Nissan NV200, a smaller and less powerful competitor, offers similar fuel economy around 24 MPG, but lacks the power of the Transit Connect. These comparisons matter because Transit Connect buyers are likely cross-shopping based on payload, cargo volume, and city maneuverability, where fuel economy is just one piece of the puzzle. For more data, examine all Ford fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration makes a noticeable difference in the Transit Connect’s fuel consumption. The 2.5L engine delivers adequate power, but rewards a measured approach. Avoid aggressive starts and maintain a steady speed to minimize fuel waste.

Regular maintenance keeps the engine operating at peak efficiency. Ensure the tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure, and schedule regular oil changes and tune-ups. A well-maintained engine consumes less fuel.

Minimize excess weight in the van. The more weight the engine has to move, the more fuel it will consume. Remove any unnecessary tools or equipment from the cargo area when they are not needed.

Plan your routes efficiently to minimize stop-and-go driving. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. Optimize routes to avoid heavy traffic and unnecessary detours. Consider the TRANSIT MPG across all years for alternative models.