While 22 MPG combined won’t impress efficiency enthusiasts, it’s what you get with the 2020 Ford Transit Connect Van 2WD with the 2.5L engine. This van isn’t about fuel efficiency, it’s a workhorse. It’s a compact cargo van designed for small businesses, delivery services, or anyone needing a maneuverable and affordable way to haul goods in urban areas. Its fuel economy is good enough to get the job done without costing too much, and for many, that’s acceptable.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2020 Ford Transit Connect at 20 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The city figure is more important for this vehicle because it spends a lot of time in stop-and-go traffic, tight parking spaces, and delivery routes. The 27 MPG highway rating is also respectable, meaning longer trips between job sites won’t be excessively expensive. The 2.5L four-cylinder engine, combined with a six-speed automatic transmission, provides enough power, even if it’s not thrilling. It’s a reliable powertrain chosen for its durability and reasonable operating costs, not for racing. The transmission shifts smoothly and predictably, and it prioritizes fuel efficiency under normal driving conditions.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Ford Transit Connect Van 2WD 2.5L is $2,000. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using national average fuel prices. Use this benchmark to compare against other vehicles and to estimate your own fuel expenses based on your driving habits and local fuel costs. This is just an estimate, so your actual fuel costs may vary.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a good starting point, but real-world fuel economy can change. Load weight matters. The more weight, the lower the MPG. Driving style also affects fuel economy. Aggressive acceleration, hard braking, and high speeds will reduce fuel efficiency. Regular maintenance also matters. A well-maintained engine delivers better fuel economy than a neglected one. Tire pressure, air filter condition, and even the type of oil can impact MPG. Expect the low end of the range if you constantly drive with a full payload in the city exceeding the speed limit on the highway to meet deadlines.

How it compares

The Ford Transit Connect’s fuel economy is competitive in the compact cargo van segment. The RAM ProMaster City is rated at 21 MPG combined with its 2.4L engine. The Nissan NV200 achieves 25 MPG combined, another popular choice. While the Nissan appears to be more efficient, its lower cargo volume and less powerful engine may not work for all buyers. Newer vans are entering the market. The electric Ford E-Transit gives businesses more choices. For buyers considering the 2020 Transit Connect, the cost savings of electric vans are appealing, but range limitations and charging infrastructure may make gasoline-powered options better, at least for now. Comparing all Ford fuel economy data can help you put this figure into perspective.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Minimize idling. The 2.5L engine is not efficient when idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. This can be a challenge for delivery drivers, but even small reductions in idling time matter.

Maintain proper tire pressure. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate your tires to the recommended pressure listed on the doorjamb sticker. This is even greater when carrying heavy loads.

Drive smoothly and predictably. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. Gradual acceleration and smooth braking will improve fuel economy. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a consistent speed. Speeding will decrease your mileage. Drive closer to the speed limit for optimal efficiency.

Lighten the load when you can. Every extra pound reduces fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from the van by reorganizing tools or supplies, or simply removing items that are rarely used. The Transit Connect often has a full payload, so this may increase MPG considerably.

Consider cruise control on the highway, if appropriate. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which improves fuel economy. Be mindful of traffic conditions and be prepared to disengage cruise control if necessary.