The EPA estimates 19 MPG combined for the 2018 Ford F150 4WD with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6, a figure that might seem low today, but it’s acceptable for buyers who need a capable, work-ready truck with strong towing and payload capacity. These aren’t hypermilers; they’re contractors, ranchers, and weekend warriors who prioritize capability over outright fuel savings. This F150 isn’t about breaking MPG records; it’s about getting the job done, and getting it done reliably, with the added security of four-wheel drive.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 17 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway for this F150. The city figure reflects stop-and-go traffic and lower average speeds, where the truck’s weight and aerodynamic profile work against it. The highway estimate shows the potential for decent efficiency when cruising at a steady speed. The 10-speed automatic transmission, denoted by ‘S10’ in the EPA data, is important here, keeping the engine in its most efficient RPM range. Remember that these figures are highly dependent on driving style. Aggressive acceleration and heavy braking will significantly decrease these numbers.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Ford F150 4WD 3.5L EcoBoost V6 at $2,300. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using EPA’s fuel economy estimates, and the national average fuel price. Your actual fuel cost may vary significantly based on your driving habits, the type of driving you do (city vs. highway), and the price of gasoline in your area. This $2,300 figure provides a standardized benchmark for comparing fuel costs across different vehicles.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized estimate, real-world MPG often deviates. Expect to see numbers closer to the stated figures if you predominantly drive on the highway and drive conservatively. However, if you regularly tow trailers, haul heavy loads, or frequently engage the four-wheel-drive system, your fuel economy will likely be lower. Many F150 owners report MPG figures in the mid-teens in mixed driving conditions, particularly during the colder months when winter fuel blends are used and engines take longer to reach optimal operating temperature. Towing will plummet the MPG into single digits, a sacrifice most F150 owners understand and accept.

How it compares

Compared to other full-size trucks from 2018, the F150 with the 3.5L EcoBoost holds its own. For example, the 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with the 5.3L V8 and 4WD is rated at 19 MPG combined as well, while the Ram 1500 with the 5.7L Hemi and 4WD nets 17 MPG combined. These differences are relatively small and may not be a major factor for buyers primarily focused on capability. The Toyota Tundra, known for its reliability but less so for its fuel efficiency, generally lags behind both Ford and GM in the MPG department. See F150 MPG across all years to compare this model to others within the F150 lineup.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The F150’s EcoBoost engine benefits from smooth, gradual acceleration. Avoid aggressive launches and heavy throttle inputs, as these will quickly burn through fuel. The turbochargers contribute to the engine’s impressive power and can negatively impact fuel economy if not driven with restraint.

Ensure your tires are 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 is a simple but effective way to maintain optimal fuel economy.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Hauling around tools, equipment, or other items in the bed of the truck adds to the overall vehicle weight, reducing fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need on a regular basis. This is relevant for contractors who tend to leave equipment in their trucks.

Minimize idling. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance, effectively reducing your MPG to zero during that time. Modern engines are designed to be started and stopped frequently without causing excessive wear.

Plan your trips strategically, combining errands and avoiding peak traffic times. Stop-and-go traffic significantly impacts fuel economy. By planning your route and driving during off-peak hours, you can minimize idling and maintain a more consistent speed, resulting in better MPG. For all Ford fuel economy data see our dedicated make page for the Blue Oval.