The 2018 Ford F150 2WD Base Payload trim with the 3.3L V6 gets 21 miles per gallon combined. Fleet managers and budget-conscious contractors factor this figure into their long-term operating costs. This F150 prioritizes capability over ultimate efficiency, and its fuel consumption reflects that. This particular configuration is the entry point to the F150 lineup, favoring utility and affordability. Those who prioritize fuel sipping over towing capacity will likely cross shop this vehicle against more fuel efficient trucks.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2018 Ford F150 2WD Base Payload LT Tire 3.3L V6 are 19 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go driving, idling at job sites, and navigating urban environments. The 24 MPG highway rating is achievable on long stretches of open road, provided you maintain a steady speed and avoid aggressive acceleration. These numbers are reasonably representative for this class of truck when unladen, but adding weight in the bed or towing a trailer will significantly impact fuel economy, especially in city driving.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for this 2018 F150 configuration to be $2,100. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway, using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel cost may be higher or lower depending on your driving habits, the actual price of gasoline in your area, and how heavily you use the truck for work or personal transportation. This yearly cost is a key factor in the total cost of ownership.

Real-world expectations

While EPA estimates provide a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy varies. This version of the F150 excels when tasked with lighter-duty work, such as carrying tools and supplies. But load the bed with heavy materials, and your MPG will quickly drop. Towing, of course, will have a significant impact. Owners who understand the limitations of the 3.3L V6 and drive accordingly will be closer to hitting the EPA estimates. Aggressive driving habits will also take a toll. Gentle acceleration and anticipating traffic flow will help you conserve fuel. Remember, this F150 is designed for a specific purpose, and driving it within those parameters will yield the best possible fuel efficiency. You can compare all Ford fuel economy data to help put this MPG number in context.

How it compares

Compared to other full-size trucks from 2018, the F150 2WD Base Payload’s fuel economy is competitive for its class, especially with the base engine. The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with its base 4.3L V6 offered similar fuel economy numbers, around 18 city and 24 highway. However, upgrading to a larger engine in either truck significantly reduces fuel economy. Ram 1500 Classic with the 3.6L V6 will hit around 17 city and 25 highway. In comparison, the F150’s figures are relatively favorable, particularly for budget-conscious buyers who don’t require maximum towing capacity. For comparison, you can look at F150 MPG across all years, to see how this model compares.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Keep your tires properly inflated to the recommended pressure listed on the doorjamb sticker. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Regularly checking tire pressure, especially when temperatures change, is a simple way to improve overall fuel economy.

Avoid unnecessary idling. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. The 3.3L V6 consumes fuel even when idling, so minimizing this will help conserve gas, particularly on job sites where idling is common.

Drive smoothly and anticipate traffic flow. Avoid hard acceleration and sudden braking, as these habits waste fuel. Maintaining a steady speed and anticipating traffic lights will help you optimize your fuel efficiency. The six-speed automatic transmission is programmed for optimum efficiency, so there is no need to manually shift.

Lighten your load. Remove any unnecessary weight from the truck bed. Extra weight increases fuel consumption, so only carry what you need. Avoid using the truck bed as a mobile storage unit for items that aren’t essential for your daily tasks.

Schedule regular maintenance. Keep your engine properly tuned and change your oil according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. A well-maintained engine will run more efficiently and help you maximize your fuel economy. Following Ford’s recommended maintenance schedule is critical to maintaining optimal performance.