21 MPG combined doesn’t make the 2016 Ford F150 Pickup 2WD with the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 a Prius competitor, but it’s an impressive figure for a full-size truck that can still tow over 7,000 pounds. This powertrain delivers a sweet spot of capability and efficiency that appeals to buyers who need a truck for work or recreation, but don’t want to spend a lot on gas like they would with a traditional V8.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 19 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway for this specific F150 configuration. These numbers reflect stop-and-go traffic and steady cruising. The 2.7L EcoBoost V6 benefits from turbocharging, giving it more power at lower RPMs than a naturally aspirated engine, which helps when accelerating from a standstill in city driving. Out on the highway, the six-speed automatic transmission allows the engine to settle into a fuel-sipping gear, making the 25 MPG figure believable on long road trips. Driving style greatly influences these numbers; aggressive acceleration and high speeds will dramatically reduce fuel economy.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for this F150 at $2,100. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. The price of gasoline fluctuates, meaning you might spend more or less depending on market conditions. It’s also important to remember that your personal driving habits will impact how much you spend on fuel annually. If you drive significantly more or less than 15,000 miles or have a lead foot, expect your actual fuel costs to vary from the EPA estimate. Regardless, $2,100 shows the affordability of owning a full-size truck equipped to do real work.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy always varies. Many factors can influence MPG, including weather conditions, terrain, tire pressure, and cargo weight. Owners report real-world MPG figures that fall slightly below the EPA estimates. A common range reported by drivers is 17-23 MPG in mixed driving. However, those who want better fuel efficiency and drive conservatively can often achieve numbers closer to, or even slightly above, the EPA’s combined rating. Consider these reports as what to realistically expect, especially if you typically drive in challenging conditions or frequently use the truck’s towing capabilities. Remember to keep your truck properly maintained, a poorly maintained engine will not be as fuel efficient.

How it compares

Compared to other full-size trucks from 2016, the 2.7L EcoBoost F150 2WD holds its own in fuel economy. A comparable Chevrolet Silverado 1500 2WD with the 4.3L V6 offered a similar EPA combined rating of 20 MPG. The F150’s EcoBoost engine often feels more responsive thanks to its turbocharging. The Ram 1500 2WD with the 3.6L V6 achieved 20 MPG combined as well. This F150 shines against its own V8 counterparts. The 5.0L V8 F150 2WD from the same year nets only 18 MPG combined. This improved efficiency is why many buyers opt for the 2.7L EcoBoost – it offers a blend of fuel economy and capability that other trucks struggle to match. You can examine F150 MPG across all years to see how this truck compares to older and newer models.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Proper tire inflation is critical. Ensure your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure listed on the doorjamb sticker. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which directly impacts fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially during temperature changes, as pressure fluctuates with weather.

Avoid unnecessary idling. Modern engines are designed to be efficient at startup, so idling for extended periods wastes fuel. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. This is especially important in city driving where you may encounter frequent stops.

Drive smoothly and avoid aggressive acceleration. The 2.7L EcoBoost provides ample torque at low RPMs, allowing you to accelerate gently and maintain a steady speed. Hard acceleration and braking consume excessive fuel, so adopt a more relaxed driving style to improve your MPG.

Reduce weight and aerodynamic drag. Remove any unnecessary items from the truck bed and cab, as added weight reduces fuel economy. Consider purchasing a tonneau cover to improve aerodynamics, especially on highway driving. These simple upgrades can have a positive impact.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed minimizes throttle changes and optimizes fuel consumption. Cruise control helps you avoid speeding and promotes a more fuel-efficient driving style on long stretches of highway. If you’re curious to see all Ford fuel economy data and compare it to other brands, be sure to browse our other sections!