20 MPG combined isn’t going to win any hypermiling contests, but for the 2016 Ford F150 4WD with the 2.7L EcoBoost V6, it represents a sweet spot of capability and relative efficiency. Don’t picture it parked next to a Prius, remember this is a half-ton pickup truck designed to haul, tow, and tackle all kinds of terrain. This specific F150 configuration appeals to buyers who need the utility of a truck but don’t necessarily want the bulk and fuel demands of a larger V8.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 18 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway for this F150 configuration. The city number reflects the stop-and-go driving and lower average speeds, where the truck’s weight and aerodynamic profile take a bigger toll. On the open road, at a steady speed, the 2.7L EcoBoost can stretch its legs and deliver surprisingly respectable fuel economy. The six-speed automatic transmission plays a critical role, keeping the engine in its most efficient range. For owners who spend a significant portion of their time on the highway, or those who live in areas with less congested roads, the highway figure is a more realistic expectation of everyday fuel economy.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates that the average owner of this 2016 Ford F150 4WD 2.7L will spend $2,200 per year on fuel. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles annually, using the EPA’s combined MPG rating, and assuming national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that this is an estimate, and your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and local fuel prices. Someone who hauls heavy loads frequently or spends a lot of time idling in traffic will likely exceed this figure, while a driver who prioritizes fuel-efficient driving techniques could potentially come in under it. It’s a useful benchmark to compare against other vehicles, but not a guaranteed prediction of expenses.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides standardized testing, real-world driving is far more diverse. Owners of this F150 configuration often report fuel economy that fluctuates around the EPA estimates. Many see figures closer to 17-21 MPG in mixed driving. Variables like driving style, load, tire pressure, and even weather conditions can all impact fuel consumption; heavy acceleration, frequent braking, and towing will decrease gas mileage. Conversely, gentle acceleration, maintaining consistent speeds, and properly inflated tires can help achieve closer to the EPA’s estimates. The four-wheel-drive system, while beneficial in inclement weather or off-road situations, slightly reduces fuel economy compared to the two-wheel-drive version.

How it compares

Compared to other full-size pickup trucks from the 2016 model year, the Ford F150 4WD with the 2.7L EcoBoost holds its own. The Chevy Silverado 1500 4WD with the 5.3L V8, for instance, typically achieves around 16 MPG combined. The Ram 1500 4WD with the 3.6L V6 often sits around 19 MPG. Even the Toyota Tundra, known for its reliability but not necessarily its fuel efficiency, gets about 15 MPG combined with its 5.7L V8. The Ford F150 offers a good mix of capability and efficiency. Buyers who prioritize raw power and towing capacity above all else might still opt for a V8, but the 2.7L EcoBoost provides a balance between the two. You can review F150 MPG across all years to see how this truck compares over time. And remember to check all Ford fuel economy data for details on the current lineup.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Minimize idling as much as possible. The EcoBoost engine is designed to shut down and restart in traffic (auto start/stop), so use this feature if your truck is equipped with it. Prolonged idling burns fuel without covering any distance, significantly reducing overall fuel economy.

Drive smoothly and avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The 2.7L EcoBoost delivers its torque at relatively low RPMs, meaning you don’t need to rev the engine hard to get moving. Gentle acceleration and anticipating traffic flow can help prevent unnecessary fuel consumption.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which increases the engine’s workload and decreases fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels, often found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Reduce aerodynamic drag. Remove unnecessary items from the truck bed, as they can disrupt airflow and increase drag, especially at highway speeds. If you frequently carry cargo in the bed, consider using a tonneau cover to improve the truck’s aerodynamics; even the minor drag of a few tools can impact fuel economy.