19 MPG combined for the 2018 Ford F150 4WD FFV BASE payload configuration isn’t going to win any awards, but that’s not the primary reason someone buys this particular truck. It’s a workhorse, a reliable and capable machine designed for getting the job done, and the fuel economy reflects that compromise. It’s a truck for contractors, small business owners, and those who need serious towing and hauling capability without the added expense of a larger engine or higher trim level features.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates reflect the F150’s inherent trade-offs. The 17 MPG city rating shows the impact of stop-and-go driving on a vehicle of this size and weight. The 3.3L V6, while adequate, has to work harder in urban environments, leading to lower fuel efficiency. On the highway, the 22 MPG rating is more respectable, demonstrating the benefits of consistent speeds and the engine’s ability to cruise efficiently when not under heavy load. These numbers won’t inspire envy from hybrid owners, but they are reasonable for a full-size, four-wheel-drive pickup with this level of capability. The automatic transmission is programmed for efficiency, trying to upshift early and keep the engine in its most economical operating range.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,300 for this particular F150 configuration. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using a blend of city and highway driving, and at the EPA’s assumed national average fuel price. Your actual fuel costs could be significantly higher or lower depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use (regular or E85), and local fuel prices. If you are primarily using this truck for heavy towing or frequently driving in congested city traffic, expect to exceed that $2,300 figure. Conversely, if your driving is predominantly highway miles and you drive conservatively, you might spend less.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA numbers provide a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy can vary depending on a multitude of factors. Load weight is a major one. Hauling heavy equipment or materials in the bed obviously decreases fuel efficiency, and towing a trailer will have an even more dramatic impact. Driving style also plays a critical role. Aggressive acceleration and braking are fuel economy killers. Tire pressure affects fuel economy; ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressures, found on the door jamb sticker. Finally, remember that using four-wheel-drive mode engages additional mechanical components, increasing fuel consumption significantly. Only use 4WD when necessary for traction in snow, mud, or other challenging conditions.

How it compares

Compared to other full-size trucks, the 2018 Ford F150 with the 3.3L V6 and 4WD stands roughly in the middle of the pack. A comparable Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with the 4.3L V6 and 4WD typically gets around 17 MPG combined. The Ram 1500 Classic with the 3.6L V6 and 4WD often delivers similar numbers to the Silverado, around 17-18 MPG combined. Even a Toyota Tundra with its base V8 engine struggles to match the F150’s efficiency. However, stepping up to Ford’s own 2.7L EcoBoost V6 in a similar F150 configuration can yield better fuel economy numbers, typically around 20-21 MPG combined. This comparison matters because buyers in this segment often consider overall cost of ownership, and fuel efficiency is a significant contributor to that calculation. Potential buyers should compare all Ford fuel economy data to see what fits their requirements.

Tips to maximize efficiency

One of the easiest ways to improve fuel economy is to simply drive more conservatively. Avoid hard acceleration and braking. By anticipating traffic flow and maintaining a steady speed, you will see a noticeable improvement in your MPG. Remember that this truck’s engine thrives at steady speeds. It’s not designed for jackrabbit starts.

Regular maintenance is critical. Keep your engine properly tuned, and ensure all fluids are at the correct levels. A poorly maintained engine will burn more fuel. Specifically, a fresh air filter allows the engine to breathe easier, improving combustion and fuel economy. Check the F150 MPG across all years to see if maintenance impacted the vehicle.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Remove any tools or equipment from the bed that aren’t needed for a specific task. Extra weight forces the engine to work harder, burning more fuel. Also, consider removing any aftermarket accessories that add wind resistance, such as roof racks, when they aren’t in use.

Tire pressure makes a difference. Check your tire pressures regularly and maintain them at the level specified on the door jamb sticker. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which drags down fuel economy. You can lose a surprising amount of efficiency this way.

Be mindful of E85 fuel. While the F150 3.3L V6 can run on E85, its fuel economy is significantly lower than when running on regular gasoline. Unless the price of E85 is dramatically lower than regular, it’s generally not economical to use it. Check the price differential carefully before filling up.