The 2017 Ford F-150 2.7L 4WD with a GVWR exceeding 6,799 lbs and the 2.7L 6-cylinder engine gets an EPA estimated 19 MPG combined. This isn’t winning any green awards, but it’s an acceptable compromise for buyers who need a work-capable truck with added all-weather security. The vehicle is a half-ton pickup designed for hauling, towing, and tackling challenging conditions. The fuel economy reflects that capability; it exists in service of practicality, not pure efficiency.

City and highway performance

The EPA breaks down that 19 MPG combined rating into 18 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. Stop-and-go traffic typically punishes larger vehicles, and the F-150 2.7L is no exception. The turbocharged 2.7L V6 exhibits impressive low-end torque, which helps with initial acceleration, but each acceleration event burns fuel. Highway driving allows the engine to settle into its most efficient range, thanks to the six-speed automatic transmission.

The taller gearing helps to drop RPMs at cruising speed while the relatively light weight for a 4×4 F-150 helps too. The 22 MPG highway figure is likely the most achievable number for owners who primarily use the truck for longer commutes and road trips.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for this specific F-150 configuration at $2,300. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using a national average fuel price. Your actual fuel costs will vary based on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and how heavily you use the truck’s capabilities. Hauling heavy loads or frequently engaging four-wheel drive will increase your fuel consumption beyond this $2,300 threshold.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standardized benchmark, but real-world MPG often differs. Many factors influence fuel consumption, including driving style, terrain, tire pressure, and even weather conditions. Owners who prioritize smooth acceleration, anticipate traffic flow, and keep their tires properly inflated are more likely to achieve numbers closer to the EPA estimates. Aggressive driving, frequent off-roading, and neglecting maintenance will lead to lower MPG figures. It’s common for owners to report highway MPG closer to 20-21 MPG and city MPG around 16-17 MPG in typical driving scenarios, but results do vary.

For more information, you can explore F150 MPG across all years.

How it compares

Compared to other full-size pickup trucks with four-wheel drive, the 2017 F-150 2.7L holds its own, but isn’t a class leader. For example, the 2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with the available 5.3L V8 and 4WD is rated at 16 MPG combined, while the Ram 1500 equipped with the 3.6L V6 and 4WD achieves a similar 19 MPG combined.

The F-150’s advantage lies in its turbocharged engine, enabling comparable power to larger displacement engines while theoretically offering improved fuel economy when not under heavy load. This F-150 is a good option for buyers who need truck capabilities without resorting to more fuel-thirsty V8 engines.

Explore all Ford fuel economy data for a wider view of the automaker’s range.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The turbocharged 2.7L EcoBoost engine is sensitive to driving style. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking, as these habits significantly reduce fuel economy, especially in city driving. Use smooth inputs on the accelerator, maintain a constant speed when possible, and anticipate traffic flow to minimize unnecessary stops.

Tire pressure is critical for maintaining optimal fuel efficiency. Check your tires regularly and inflate them to the pressure recommended on the doorjamb sticker. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, leading to decreased MPG. Always check cold tire pressure, meaning before driving.

Remove any unnecessary weight from the truck bed and cabin. Extra weight increases the engine’s workload, which in turn burns more fuel. Keep the bed clean and free of items you don’t need to carry regularly. Even small amounts of added weight add up quickly.

Regular maintenance is essential for optimal engine performance and fuel economy. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently and burns fuel more effectively.

Minimize idling time. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Idling consumes fuel without moving the vehicle, contributing to poor fuel economy. Modern vehicles are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, making it easy to save fuel by avoiding unnecessary idling.