The 2017 Ford F150 Pickup 4WD FFV 3.5L 6-cyl gets 19 MPG combined, which is expected for most owners. This truck is built for work, for towing, for hauling, and sometimes for off-roading. Fuel economy is a consideration, but it’s rarely the main concern for someone who needs its core strength. This truck gets the job done, and its fuel consumption reflects that.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates show where the F150 uses the most fuel. Expect 17 MPG in the city. Stop-and-go traffic, idling, and accelerating contribute to this lower number. On the open road, the highway estimate increases to 23 MPG. This improvement happens because the engine maintains a more efficient speed, using less acceleration and deceleration. These numbers are dependent on driving style and load. Towing a trailer or carrying heavy cargo will lower these figures, while a lighter foot might result in better efficiency.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Ford F150 Pickup 4WD FFV 3.5L 6-cyl at $2,300 per year. This is based on driving 15,000 miles annually and using national average fuel prices. Fuel prices change, and your actual mileage may vary depending on your driving habits and conditions. Drivers who frequently tow or drive in city environments can expect to spend more. The $2,300 figure offers a comparison against other vehicles. For more information, you can find all Ford fuel economy data on our website.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a starting point, but real-world fuel economy differs. Owners of the 2017 F150 with the 3.5L V6 often report numbers close to the EPA figures, but experiences vary. Aggressive driving, especially with the turbo 6-cylinder, will lower those numbers. Towing heavy loads will have a similar effect. However, careful drivers who use smooth acceleration and consistent speeds on the highway may see better results. Keep a record of your fuel consumption to accurately determine your truck’s efficiency in your specific driving conditions. Checking the tire pressure regularly, performing routine maintenance, and avoiding unnecessary idling are ways to improve those numbers.

How it compares

Compared to other full-size trucks in 2017, the fuel economy of the 2017 F150 Pickup 4WD FFV 3.5L 6-cyl is typical. A comparable Chevrolet Silverado 1500 4WD with the 5.3L V8 achieved roughly the same numbers, around 16 MPG city and 22 MPG highway. The Ram 1500 4×4 with the 5.7L Hemi V8 offered similar figures. The F150 has a lighter weight aluminum body, but the difference in MPG versus the steel-bodied competition was statistically negligible. The key point is the balance between capability and efficiency. Someone primarily concerned with fuel efficiency in a truck might consider the rear-wheel drive F150 with the 2.7L EcoBoost, which achieves significantly better numbers, but sacrifices capability. See F150 MPG across all years for more information.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 3.5L EcoBoost engine in the 2017 F150 is responsive, but heavy throttle use activates the turbos and consumes fuel quickly. Drive smoothly, avoiding rapid acceleration to conserve fuel. Watch the boost gauge (if equipped) and try to keep it out of the boost zone during normal driving.

The F150 is a large vehicle, meaning rolling resistance and aerodynamics affect fuel consumption. Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure, and remove any unnecessary items from the bed to reduce weight. Retract or remove aftermarket accessories, such as ladder racks, running boards, and bed covers, to improve airflow.

Modern automatic transmissions, like the 6-speed in the 2017 F150, are programmed for efficiency. However, towing or hauling heavy loads can confuse the shift logic and cause the transmission to hunt for the right gear. If you frequently tow, consider using the Tow/Haul mode, which optimizes shift points for heavier loads, potentially improving fuel economy and reducing wear and tear on the transmission.

Idling consumes fuel. If you anticipate being stationary for more than a minute, turn off the engine. The 3.5L EcoBoost benefits from a cool-down period after hard use. However, for everyday driving, shutting it off is more fuel-efficient.