22 MPG combined isn’t going to set any records, but for a full-size, rear-wheel-drive pickup truck like the 2018 Ford F150 2WD with the 3.3L V6, it’s a respectable figure. This truck isn’t marketed toward hypermilers; it’s for contractors, small business owners, and homeowners who need a capable workhorse that can still serve as a daily driver. Fuel efficiency is a consideration, but payload, towing, and overall cost of ownership are typically higher priorities for this buyer.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2018 F150 2WD FFV 3.3L V6 break down to 20 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The city rating reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, where the engine spends more time idling and accelerating, tasks that demand more fuel. The highway rating, achieved at consistent speeds on relatively flat terrain, demonstrates the engine’s potential efficiency when not under heavy load. Remember that these figures are generated under controlled conditions and are primarily tools for comparison. Expect to see a difference depending on your driving habits, load, and road conditions.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for this specific 2018 Ford F150 configuration at $2,000. This figure is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. If you drive more, less, or if fuel prices fluctuate, your actual fuel costs will vary. It’s a helpful benchmark for comparing the running costs of different vehicles, but personalize it based on your own driving patterns to get a more accurate estimate of your expenses. Keep in mind that choosing a higher trim level that is heavier or adds an optional drivetrain can significantly impact this figure.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy often deviates. Factors like aggressive acceleration, carrying heavy loads, towing, and driving in hilly terrain can all decrease fuel efficiency. However, using smooth driving techniques, maintaining proper tire inflation, and minimizing idling can help you get closer to the EPA estimates. Don’t be surprised if you average slightly below 22 MPG in combined driving if your typical use case involves frequent heavy loads or towing. Some owners report achieving closer to the highway figure on longer trips, highlighting the importance of driving style and conditions. Also note that using lower grade fuel than the recommended 87 octane could have a negative impact on achieving the EPA estimate.

How it compares

Compared to other full-size pickups from 2018 fitted with their base engines, the F150’s fuel economy holds its own. A similar 2WD V6 configuration of the 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, for example, achieves around 20 MPG combined, slightly lower than the F150. The Ram 1500 with its base V6 engine posted similar figures. The F150’s aluminum body construction contributes to its lighter weight, aiding in fuel efficiency compared to competitors with heavier steel bodies. This difference, while seemingly small on paper, can translate into tangible savings over the lifespan of the vehicle, especially for high-mileage drivers. For those prioritizing fuel economy above everything else, smaller trucks like the Toyota Tacoma (around 21 MPG combined with the V6) are an alternative, but they come with significant sacrifices in towing capacity and payload. See F150 MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

One of the simplest ways to improve fuel economy in the 2018 F150 3.3L V6 is to adopt a smoother driving style. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking, as these actions force the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Gradual acceleration and anticipating traffic flow can make a noticeable difference over time.

Regular maintenance plays an important role in optimizing fuel efficiency. Ensure that your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure, as underinflated tires increase rolling resistance. Also, keep up with scheduled maintenance, including oil changes and air filter replacements, to ensure the engine is running at peak efficiency.

Minimize idling time whenever possible. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Excessive idling consumes fuel without covering any distance, negatively impacting your MPG. This is especially true in stop-and-go city traffic, where idling can account for a significant portion of your fuel consumption.

Consider removing any unnecessary weight from the truck bed or cab. Extra weight forces the engine to work harder, reducing fuel efficiency. Carrying around tools or equipment that you don’t need on a daily basis can add up over time, leading to a noticeable decrease in MPG. Explore all Ford fuel economy data to understand how different vehicle features weigh into MPG.

When towing or hauling heavy loads, drive at a moderate speed and avoid sudden maneuvers. The 3.3L V6 is capable, but it will consume significantly more fuel when stressed. Keep your speed consistent and try to anticipate changes in terrain to minimize unnecessary acceleration and braking. Also, consider using synthetic oil for smoother engine operation.