19 MPG combined isn’t going to win awards, but it is something to consider for the 2017 Ford F-150 3.5L 4WD with a GVWR exceeding 7599 lbs. This isn’t a fuel sipper designed for urban commutes. It’s a workhorse, frequently configured with heavy-duty options and upfitting in mind. Buyers prioritize payload, towing capacity, and durability. Fuel economy takes a backseat to accomplishing demanding tasks on ranches, at construction sites, and during heavy recreational towing.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates show 17 MPG in the city and 21 MPG on the highway. These numbers represent a best-case scenario achieved under controlled conditions. The turbocharged 3.5L V6, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, offers ample power, but the 4WD system plus the vehicle’s considerable weight will noticeably affect fuel consumption, especially in stop-and-go city driving.

Highway mileage will fluctuate based on speed, load, and wind resistance. If you’re frequently hauling materials, fuel economy will dip below the EPA estimates. The aerodynamic properties of a brick are better than a work truck in a headwind.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2017 Ford F-150 3.5L 4WD GVWR>7599 LBS is $2,300. This calculation assumes 15,000 miles of driving per year, using national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that if you drive more than 15,000 miles annually, or if fuel prices in your area are higher than the national average, you can expect to pay significantly more. Heavy use, such as frequent towing or off-road driving, will also drive up your fuel expenses.

Real-world expectations

Don’t expect to consistently match those EPA numbers in everyday use. The relatively aggressive tuning of the turbocharger in this generation of Ford’s 3.5L EcoBoost engine means that getting into boost, even briefly, results in a significant drop in fuel economy. If you use the vehicle to its full potential for towing or hauling, or if you’re frequently engaged in stop-and-go driving with a heavy foot, you can expect fuel economy to fall around the 15-17 MPG range. A driver with a lighter foot, spending more time on the highway without heavy loads, can likely get closer to the EPA’s combined rating. Remember that cold weather also saps fuel efficiency, especially with the four-wheel-drive system engaged.

How it compares

Comparable trucks from this era often had similar fuel economy expectations. The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with the 5.3L V8 and 4WD was rated at 18 MPG combined. The Ram 1500 with the 5.7L Hemi and 4WD also hovered around 17 MPG combined. While some smaller-displacement engines, like the 2.7L EcoBoost in certain F-150 configurations, offered slightly better fuel economy (around 20 MPG combined), they sacrificed some of the horsepower and torque that buyers of this specific F-150 often require. Those who prioritize fuel efficiency may have considered a diesel option, if available, but those engines often carried a significant price premium. You can view F150 MPG across all years here.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use cruise control on the highway to maintain a consistent speed and minimize unnecessary acceleration. The 10-speed transmission does a good job of finding the optimal gear, but constantly varying your speed will force frequent gear changes and lower your MPG. Pay close attention to the terrain when towing and consider using tow/haul mode. The transmission is programmed to reduce gear hunting and keep the engine in its optimal power band with tow/haul engaged. By keeping it in tow/haul mode, you’ll be more efficient over rolling roads than if you were to drive without that button engaged.

Avoid excessive idling. The turbocharged engine consumes a surprising amount of fuel while idling, especially in cold weather. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute or two, it’s generally better to turn the engine off.

Check your tire pressure regularly and ensure your tires are properly inflated. Low tire pressure increases rolling resistance, reducing fuel economy. Refer to the sticker on your driver’s side door jamb for the recommended tire pressure. Don’t forget to check your spare tire!

Reduce unnecessary weight in the bed of the truck. Extra payload directly impacts fuel economy. Remove any tools, equipment, or debris that you don’t need to carry, especially when driving unloaded. Think twice before tossing in a bunch of sandbags for winter traction.

Consider aftermarket modifications such as a tonneau cover. While the exact benefits are debated, a tonneau cover can slightly improve aerodynamics and potentially increase fuel economy, especially at highway speeds. Remember to explore all Ford fuel economy data.