Are transit connects good on fuel?
Yes. Ford's Transit Connect compact cargo van is generally considered fuel-efficient for its class, especially with the standard gasoline engine. In the U.S., real-world mileage tends to run in the mid-20s mpg combined under typical use, with highway trips delivering better numbers than city driving. In Europe, a diesel option historically offered higher efficiency, but that variant isn’t sold in the U.S. As of 2024, Ford’s all-electric option in the van family is the larger E-Transit, not the Connect.
How fuel economy stacks up
The Transit Connect’s fuel economy depends on configuration, payload, and driving conditions. Here is a quick look at what shoppers can expect across common setups.
- Gasoline 2.0-liter engine with front-wheel drive (Cargo Van or Passenger Wagon): typically falls in the mid-20s mpg combined in mixed driving, with highway mileage higher and city driving lower. Real-world results vary based on load and terrain.
- Payload and body type: heavier configurations and heavier cargo load generally reduce mpg, while lighter cargo or passengers can improve efficiency.
- European EcoBlue diesel option (not available in the U.S.): when offered, diesel engines can deliver higher highway efficiency and better mpg in many scenarios, especially on longer trips.
- All-electric option: the Transit Connect itself does not have a current all-electric version in the U.S.; Ford’s electrified lineup for smaller vans centers on the E-Transit, which is a larger van and not the Connect.
For any given build, the official EPA rating is the best starting point, but real-world results will be influenced by cargo, climate, tires, and driving style.
Tips to maximize fuel economy
Improving fuel economy for a Transit Connect is mostly about operating efficiency and maintenance. Here are practical steps to get better mileage from your van.
- Keep tires inflated to the recommended pressure; underinflation reduces fuel economy and increases wear.
- Lighten the load when possible and remove roof racks or other drag-inducing accessories when not in use.
- Plan efficient routes and combine trips to reduce total mileage; avoid prolonged idling.
- Drive smoothly: accelerate gradually, anticipate stops, and use cruise control on appropriate highways.
- Schedule regular maintenance: timely oil changes, air filter replacement, and wheel alignment help maintain fuel efficiency.
- Use manufacturer-recommended tires and ensure proper wheel alignment; mismatched tires or poor alignment can hurt mpg.
Applying these practices can yield noticeable real-world gains in fuel economy for Transit Connect owners and fleet operators alike.
Real-world considerations and current options
Owners often report that the Transit Connect delivers dependable fuel economy for daily work duties, especially when payload is moderate and driving is mostly highway or mixed. City driving with frequent stops tends to reduce mpg. For buyers seeking zero-emission operation, note that the Connect line itself isn’t offered as a fully electric model; Ford’s electric option in the van lineup is the larger E-Transit, which targets different use cases and payload ranges. Always check the latest EPA window sticker and Ford’s official specs for the precise numbers tied to your exact configuration.
Summary
In summary, the Transit Connect is a relatively efficient choice in a compact van segment, with mid-20s mpg combined commonly cited for gasoline versions and higher efficiency on longer highway trips. Real-world results depend heavily on payload, driving style, and climate. For those prioritizing ultra-low emissions, the Connect’s electrified options are limited, but Ford provides a larger, fully electric E-Transit for heavier-duty needs. When evaluating a Transit Connect, compare the EPA ratings for your chosen configuration and consider practical fleet usage to gauge true fuel costs.
What is the most common problem with a Ford Transit Connect?
One of the most common problems with the Ford Transit Connect is transmission issues. The transmission is responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels and any problem with it can result in significant performance issues.
Is the Ford Transit Connect good on gas?
MPG Ratings for Ford Transit Connect
At the high end, though, the Ford Transit Connect achieves an EPA-estimated 24 city/29 highway MPG. It's able to achieve this rating thanks to a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine.
What year to avoid Ford Transit Connect?
Aside from the 2012 redesign, some 2013-2021 Transit Connects have also been reported to have transmission issues. Early in 2021, Ford issued a recall for over 192,000 2013-2021 Transit Connects due to their high probability of rolling away when in park mode.
What are the pros and cons of the Ford Transit Connect?
Review Summary
The vehicle offers versatility, ample cargo space, and a comfortable driving experience. However, many customers report serious issues with the transmission, including premature failures, as well as concerns about build quality, uncomfortable seats, and design choices that hinder functionality.
