20 MPG combined is what you can expect from the 2023 Ford F150 2WD FFV with the 5.0L V8, a figure that may not be a key selling point for its target buyer. This isn’t a commuter car; it’s a workhorse, a tow rig, and a weekend project companion. Buyers choosing the 5.0L V8 in a rear-wheel-drive F150 know they’re getting capability and that characteristic V8 rumble, understanding that fuel economy is less important.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2023 F150 2WD FFV 5.0L at 17 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, where the truck’s weight and the engine’s displacement affect fuel consumption. However, the highway number is more appealing. At a steady cruise, the 10-speed automatic transmission helps keep the engine at its most efficient, reducing fuel use. Aggressive acceleration or sustained speeds above 70MPH will quickly lower that 25 MPG number.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for this F150 configuration at $2,200. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using a national average fuel price at the time of evaluation. Your actual fuel cost will depend on how many miles you drive, how you drive, and the fuel prices in your area. Using premium fuel can quickly increase that $2,200. It’s a point of comparison, rather than a precise prediction.

Real-world expectations

Real-world MPG for the 2023 F150 2WD FFV 5.0L is heavily dependent on how the truck is used, so consider the EPA numbers as estimates. Primarily highway miles at moderate speeds might reach 23-24 MPG, but consistent towing or hauling will drop that number into the teens. Short trips around town will likely get you closer to the 17 MPG city rating. Reaching the combined 20MPG in the real world is rare. If fuel economy is a priority, consider the F150 Hybrid or click for F150 MPG across all years to view MPG ratings with smaller engines.

How it compares

The Ram 1500 with the 5.7L Hemi in a similar 2WD configuration is EPA rated at around 17 MPG combined, making it a close competitor in terms of fuel consumption. The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with the 5.3L V8 gets around 18-19 MPG combined. The Ford’s slightly better numbers might attract some buyers. For most F150 5.0L V8 buyers, these small differences matter less than towing capacity, payload, and perceived reliability. The Toyota Tundra with the standard twin-turbo V6 gets around 20 MPG combined depending on configuration, making the Toyota slightly more competitive in terms of fuel.

Tips to maximize efficiency

First, ease off the throttle. The 5.0L V8 is eager to rev, but aggressive acceleration wastes fuel without significantly improving your arrival time. Smooth, gradual acceleration makes a noticeable difference over time. Steady and consistent driving will improve MPG.

Tire pressure is critical. Check your tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the level listed on the door jamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consuming more fuel.

Minimize idling. Modern engines don’t need extended warm-up periods. Idling consumes fuel without moving you forward. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. This simple habit can save a surprising amount of fuel over time.

Proper maintenance is key. Keep your engine properly tuned, change the oil as recommended, and replace air filters when needed. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently, resulting in better fuel economy. Consult all Ford fuel economy data to learn about which engines offer better fuel economy.

Finally, unload unnecessary weight from the bed. Every extra pound reduces fuel efficiency. Remove tools, equipment, or anything else that isn’t essential for your daily driving. Lightening the load will save fuel!