While 20 MPG combined won’t top any fuel efficiency charts, it’s a reasonable figure for the 2022 Ford F150 Pickup 4WD with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6. This is a truck built to work, haul, and handle all kinds of weather. This isn’t a truck for drivers trying to maximize MPG; it’s a truck for contractors, ranchers, and anyone who needs serious capability and a comfortable, modern cabin. Fuel economy is a consideration, but it’s rarely the most important factor for the F150 buyer.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 18 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the reality of stop-and-go traffic, where frequent acceleration and braking use more fuel. The 3.5L EcoBoost, while powerful, needs fuel to repeatedly get this full-size truck moving. The highway number is better, showing the engine’s efficiency at steady speeds. The ten-speed automatic transmission is important here, keeping the engine in its most efficient range when cruising. Highway MPG figures also show how aerodynamics affect a large vehicle.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for this F150 configuration is $2,200. This assumes 15,000 miles driven per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and is based on national average fuel prices. Individual driving habits and local fuel prices will change this cost, but this figure provides a useful comparison point.

Real-world expectations

EPA figures provide a starting point, but real-world mileage changes with driving style, load, and weather. Owners who regularly tow heavy loads, drive aggressively, or spend a lot of time idling can expect lower numbers. Drivers who prioritize smooth acceleration, anticipate traffic flow, and minimize idling can often achieve figures closer to, or even exceeding, the EPA estimates. Tire pressure and overall vehicle maintenance also matter.

How it compares

The 2022 F150 4WD with the 3.5L EcoBoost offers fuel economy that’s generally in line with other full-size pickups. The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 4WD with the 5.3L V8 is rated at 18 MPG combined. The Ram 1500 4WD with the 5.7L Hemi gets a similar 17 MPG combined, and even the Toyota Tundra 4WD with its 3.5L twin-turbo V6 comes in around the same figure. The F150 PowerBoost hybrid variant offers better fuel economy, boasting an EPA combined rating of 24 MPG in 4WD, but costs more. The buyer choosing the standard 3.5L EcoBoost V6 prioritizes a balance of power, capability, and price, accepting the fuel economy as a trade-off. For a broader perspective, check out F150 MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Anticipate traffic flow and avoid hard acceleration and braking. The 3.5L EcoBoost delivers strong torque across a wide RPM range, so pushing the engine hard isn’t needed in daily driving. The heavier your foot, the more fuel you’ll burn.

Regularly check and maintain proper tire pressure, as this directly affects rolling resistance. Refer to the sticker on your doorjamb for the recommended pressure. Low tire pressure dramatically affects MPG and increases tire wear.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Hauling around tools, equipment, or other items when they aren’t needed hurts fuel economy. Keep the bed and cab clear of excess cargo.

Minimize idling. The 3.5L EcoBoost burns fuel even when stationary. If you anticipate a prolonged stop, turn off the engine. Modern stop/start systems can help with this, but excessive idling, even with the stop/start system engaged, wastes fuel.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a constant speed, especially on long journeys, can improve fuel economy.

For a deeper understanding of Ford’s overall fuel efficiency efforts, you can explore all Ford fuel economy data. That can help you see this vehicle’s MPG in a wider context.