The 2017 Ford F150 4WD FFV BASE PAYLOAD LT TIRE with the 5.0L V8 gets 17 MPG combined. While some might not find that impressive, it’s what you can expect given the truck’s capability and durability. This isn’t a fuel-sipping car, but a strong workhorse that can tow and handle weekend adventures for people who need to get things done and don’t focus on saving every drop of gas. They know moving heavy loads and taking on tough terrain takes power, which uses more fuel.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates this F150 gets 15 MPG in the city and 20 MPG on the highway. The city MPG is lower because of stop-and-go driving, where the truck’s weight and large engine reduce efficiency. The 20 MPG highway rating is better because of consistent speeds and less accelerating. Still, even on the highway, this F150 isn’t very aerodynamic, but its shape helps maximize utility.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for this F150 is $2,600. This estimate assumes 15,000 miles driven per year, with 45% in the city and 55% on the highway. It also assumes a national average fuel price. Your actual costs will depend on your driving and fuel prices, but $2,600 is a standard way to compare this F150 to other vehicles. If you mainly drive short distances in town or tow heavy loads, expect to spend more than this. If you mainly commute on the highway, you might spend less.

Real-world expectations

EPA numbers are a starting point, but real-world driving is often different. This F150 is often used for tasks that lower fuel economy. Towing a trailer, carrying heavy loads in the bed, or off-roading will all lower MPG. Quick acceleration and braking will also decrease fuel economy. On the other hand, careful driving, regular maintenance, and avoiding idling can help you get closer to the EPA estimates. A realistic average is probably somewhere between 14-18 MPG, but it depends on how you use the truck.

How it compares

The 2017 F150’s fuel economy is normal for a full-size, four-wheel-drive pickup with a V8 engine. A comparable 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 4WD with the 5.3L V8 gets around 16 MPG combined based on EPA estimates. A Ram 1500 4×4 with the 5.7L Hemi V8 is similar. The manufacturers designed these trucks for power and not to save fuel. Buyers often accept this trade-off, because the ability to tow heavy loads or navigate tough terrain is more important than getting the best gas mileage. But if you want better fuel economy, consider the F150’s EcoBoost V6 engine options, such as the 2.7L EcoBoost variants which can achieve up to 22 MPG combined. For a broader perspective, review F150 MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The best way to improve fuel economy in this F150 is to drive gently. Avoid quick acceleration and braking, because these waste fuel. Try to anticipate traffic and drive at a steady speed.

Regular maintenance is also important. Make sure your tires are inflated properly, because low tires waste fuel. Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule for oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug inspections.

Don’t idle unnecessarily. Idling wastes fuel. If you are stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine, especially in cities where idling is common.

Consider your payload. Extra weight decreases fuel economy. Remove anything you don’t need from the bed or cab. Every pound matters, especially when accelerating and going uphill.

Plan your routes carefully. Avoid rush hour and use routes that minimize stop-and-go driving. Using a GPS to find the best route can also save fuel. If you are interested in seeing all Ford fuel economy data, we have it available on the site.