17 MPG combined isn’t winning any green awards, but for the 2019 Ford F-150 4WD FFV Base Payload LT with the 5.0L V8, it’s a perfectly acceptable compromise. This truck isn’t about sipping fuel; it’s about hauling, towing, and tackling tough jobsites. Its target buyer understands this and prioritizes capability over outright efficiency. They need the proven reliability of the 5.0L V8 and four-wheel drive for demanding conditions, and fuel economy is simply a cost of doing business.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2019 F-150 5.0L 4×4 at 15 MPG in the city and 20 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the inherent inefficiency of stop-and-go driving, especially with a larger displacement engine and the added weight of four-wheel-drive components. The highway number, while still not stellar, is more palatable. Achieving that 20 MPG requires a light foot and a conscious effort to maintain a steady speed. Aggressive acceleration and high speeds will quickly diminish fuel returns. Remember, this F-150 is not particularly aerodynamic, and the 5.0L V8 needs to work harder to overcome wind resistance at higher speeds. These numbers are also impacted by the ten-speed automatic transmission which attempts to keep the engine in its most efficient range.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Ford F-150 4WD FFV Base Payload LT 5.0L 8-cyl at $2,600. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Actual costs will vary depending on individual driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel used. If the owner drives fewer than 15,000 miles per year or if fuel prices are lower than the national average, the actual cost will be less. Conversely, heavy use, high fuel prices, and aggressive driving will quickly inflate that $2,600 figure. It’s a guideline, not a guarantee.

Real-world expectations

Drivers spending significant time off-road or frequently towing should expect to see significantly lower MPG than the EPA estimates. Hauling heavy loads or navigating challenging terrain demands considerable engine output, directly impacting fuel consumption. Conversely, drivers primarily using the F-150 for light-duty tasks and highway cruising might see slightly better results. However, the EPA numbers reflect what is usually possible. Remember, the F-150 is a truck designed for work, and putting it to work affects fuel economy. If efficiency is a top priority, other powertrains within the F-150 lineup, or even considering all Ford fuel economy data, is worthwhile.

How it compares

Rival trucks offer a mixed bag in terms of fuel economy. The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with its 5.3L V8 and four-wheel drive typically achieves similar MPG figures, hovering around 16 MPG combined. The Ram 1500, depending on configuration, can slightly edge out the F-150, especially with its eTorque mild-hybrid system, achieving around 18 MPG combined equipped with the 5.7 Hemi. However, those fractional gains may not outweigh the proven track record and dependability of the Ford’s 5.0L. The Toyota Tundra, with its reliable but thirsty 5.7L V8, lags behind significantly, often struggling to reach 15 MPG combined. For buyers weighing features, capability, and long-term reliability against fuel expenses, comparing similar trims across brands is critical. Comparing F150 MPG across all years can also help understand trends.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The 5.0L V8 delivers ample power, but constantly demanding maximum output burns fuel needlessly. Gradual acceleration and anticipating traffic conditions to minimize hard braking can significantly improve fuel economy in the city.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and reducing fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate to the recommended levels, typically found on the sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb.

Minimize idling. Allowing the engine to idle for extended periods wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. The 5.0L V8 restarts quickly and easily, saving fuel over prolonged idling.

Reduce weight and improve aerodynamics. Remove unnecessary items from the bed of the truck to reduce weight. Consider adding a tonneau cover to improve aerodynamics and reduce wind resistance, especially at highway speeds. These might not yield dramatic improvements, but even small gains add up over time.

Select the appropriate drive mode. If four-wheel drive isn’t needed, keep the truck in two-wheel drive to reduce drivetrain friction and improve fuel economy. Using four-wheel drive on dry pavement significantly decreases fuel economy.