21 MPG combined. This is the headline figure that accompanies the 2016 Ford F150 2.7L 2WD with the GVWR exceeding 6649 lbs and the payload package. It’s not going to win any hypermiling competitions, but for the specific customer who buys this F150, the contractor hauling building supplies, the weekend warrior pulling a small camper, or the small business owner needing a flexible work vehicle, it represents a surprisingly frugal choice in a segment not known for efficiency.

City and highway performance

The EPA breaks down the F150’s efficiency further, revealing 18 MPG in city driving and 24 MPG on the highway. The city figure largely reflects the start-stop nature of urban environments and the truck’s inherent weight, even with Ford’s efforts to incorporate aluminum body panels. The 24 MPG highway rating is more impressive. The 2.7L EcoBoost’s ability to cruise efficiently once up to speed and the 6-speed automatic transmission finding the optimal gear help achieve this. The key here is remembering that driving style heavily impacts these numbers. A lead foot will tank both ratings, while a conscious effort to drive smoothly will yield closer to, or even exceed, the EPA estimates.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for this particular F150 configuration at $2,100. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year with fuel prices based on national averages. Your individual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits and local fuel prices, but the $2,100 figure provides a consistent benchmark for comparison with other vehicles. This allows potential buyers to factor fuel costs into the total cost of ownership, which can be an important consideration for those who rely on their truck for daily work.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized rating, real-world MPG figures often diverge. Owners of the 2.7L EcoBoost F150 frequently report highway MPG figures mirroring or slightly exceeding the EPA’s 24 MPG, provided they’re not towing or hauling heavy loads. The combined 21 MPG is realistic in mixed driving. It is important to understand the engine’s characteristics and the truck’s limitations. This isn’t a diesel workhorse, but a balanced engine that performs when needed while using less gas when possible. Keep in mind the terrain, tire pressures, and how much weight you’re carrying, a heavily-laden truck will always drink more fuel. To see more F150 MPG across all years, see our F150 MPG guide.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the 2016 F150 2.7L 2WD stands out favorably. A similar Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with a 4.3L V6 typically averages around 17 MPG combined. Even the Ram 1500 with its 3.6L V6 struggles to achieve the same efficiency, often landing closer to 19 MPG combined. The Toyota Tundra, with its larger V8 engines, is even further behind, typically registering around 15 MPG combined. This comparison highlights the Ford’s advantage in fuel economy within the full-size truck segment. Selecting four-wheel drive in any of these models always reduces fuel efficiency.

For a complete breakdown of all Ford fuel economy data, take a look at our Ford page.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key to maximizing fuel economy with the 2.7L EcoBoost. Avoid hard launches and try to anticipate traffic flow, allowing the engine to operate in its most efficient range. The turbochargers provide ample torque at lower RPMs, so you don’t need to rev the engine excessively to get up to speed.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate your tires to the pressure recommended on the door jamb sticker. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. This is particularly important for a truck that may occasionally carry heavy loads or tow.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Remove any items from the truck bed or cabin that you don’t need to carry. Every extra pound adds to the truck’s weight, requiring more energy to accelerate and maintain speed. These are work trucks, but they are often used as personal vehicles as well, so take out any unused gear.

Minimize idling. Avoid letting the truck idle for extended periods, as this burns fuel without moving the vehicle. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute or two, it’s generally more efficient to turn off the engine. The EcoBoost engine is designed to restart quickly and efficiently.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which can improve fuel economy on long trips. Be mindful of using it in hilly terrain, as the transmission may downshift frequently, negating some of the benefits.