The EPA rates the 2018 Ford F-150, when equipped with the 3.5L V6 engine, two-wheel drive, and a GVWR exceeding 7,599 pounds, at 19 MPG combined. Let’s be frank: nobody choosing this specific configuration of F-150 is prioritizing fuel efficiency above all else. This is the workhorse of the lineup, the configuration selected by contractors, fleet managers, and businesses that need a reliable, capable truck. They accept the fuel economy because this F-150 delivers the payload and towing capacity needed to get the job done.

City and highway performance

The EPA breaks down that 19 MPG combined figure into 17 MPG for city driving and 21 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban environments, where the truck’s weight and engine displacement come into play. The highway rating, meanwhile, indicates that the 3.5L V6, paired with its ten-speed automatic transmission, can achieve respectable efficiency when cruising at a steady speed. These figures illustrate the compromise inherent in a vehicle designed for heavy lifting and towing. The lighter curb weight of the two-wheel drive system helps highway MPG; all-wheel drive models will show a drop.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for this 2018 Ford F-150 at $2,300. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Of course, individual fuel costs will vary depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the specific type of driving (city vs. highway). However, the $2,300 figure provides a useful benchmark for comparing this F-150’s fuel costs to other vehicles. Remember that fuel prices fluctuate significantly, so this is an estimate that will shift over time.

Real-world expectations

EPA ratings are a good starting point, but real-world fuel economy often differs. Many factors influence your MPG, including driving style, payload, towing, and even tire pressure. Aggressive acceleration and hard braking will quickly reduce fuel efficiency. Hauling heavy loads or towing a trailer will have a significant impact. Keeping your tires properly inflated is an easy way to maintain optimal fuel economy.

Consider that this particular F-150 is often used for heavy-duty tasks, and those activities will almost always lower the MPG below the EPA ratings.

How it compares

Compared to similar trucks, this 2018 F-150’s fuel economy is competitive. For example, the 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with the 5.3L V8 and two-wheel drive is rated at 17 MPG combined, while the Ram 1500 with the 5.7L V8 and two-wheel drive achieves a similar 17 MPG combined per the EPA. The Nissan Titan with its 5.6L V8 sits around 18 MPG combined.

While those V8 engines offer more raw power, the F-150’s turbocharged V6 offers a blend of power and fuel efficiency that appeals to many buyers. For businesses, even a small MPG advantage can translate to significant savings across a fleet of trucks. See all Ford fuel economy data to review the entire Ford lineup. Owners curious about the broader context should review F150 MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Driving smoothly is critical for maximizing fuel economy in the 3.5L F-150. Avoid sudden acceleration and braking, anticipate traffic flow, and maintain a consistent speed. The engine’s turbochargers deliver power effectively at lower RPMs, so there’s no need to push the engine hard to get moving. Let the transmission do its job.

Pay close attention to your truck’s load. The heavier the load, the more fuel you’ll burn. Avoid carrying unnecessary weight in the bed of the truck. also, if you frequently tow, consider investing in aerodynamic trailer modifications to reduce drag, which can significantly improve fuel efficiency.

Regular maintenance is a must. Keep your engine properly tuned, change the oil according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, and ensure your tires are properly inflated. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently, and properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance, both of which contribute to improved fuel economy.

Use cruise control on long highway drives. Maintaining a constant speed can significantly improve fuel efficiency compared to constantly adjusting the throttle. The F-150’s ten-speed automatic transmission is designed to keep the engine in its optimal RPM range, so let it do its job while cruise control is engaged.