20 MPG combined is respectable for the 2018 Ford F150 4WD BASE PAYLOAD LT TIRE 2.7L 6-cyl. It’s a light-duty pickup truck designed for hauling, towing, and generally tackling tasks that smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles simply can’t handle. Buyers of this configuration prioritize capability and payload over savings on gas, understanding that the 2.7L EcoBoost offers a good balance of power and efficiency.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2018 F150 4WD with the 2.7L EcoBoost and the specified options break down to 18 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects urban driving, where frequent acceleration and braking impact fuel consumption. The highway MPG showcases the engine’s efficiency at steady speeds.

The 2.7L EcoBoost, despite its smaller displacement compared to traditional truck engines, benefits from turbocharging to deliver ample power without sacrificing fuel economy. It’s optimized to perform well under load, which is important for a truck like the F150.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for this specific 2018 Ford F150 configuration at $2,200. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, split roughly evenly between city and highway conditions, and using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation.

Keep in mind that this is an estimate. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do, and current fuel prices in your area. Aggressive driving, frequent towing, and consistently high speeds on the highway will all negatively impact your fuel expenditure.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides an estimate, real-world fuel economy can vary. Several owners have stated that achieving the EPA’s 23 MPG highway figure is realistic under ideal conditions – primarily flat terrain, light loads, and steady cruising speeds. Factors such as hilly terrain, headwinds, increased payload, and towing can easily drop the average MPG. City driving, with its constant starts and stops, will likely result in figures at or below the 18 MPG EPA estimate.

Careful driving and regular maintenance are key to maximizing fuel efficiency. Many owners find that using the truck’s Eco driving mode, if equipped, can help to moderate throttle response and improve fuel economy in everyday driving.

How it compares

Compared to other full-size pickup trucks of its era, the 2018 F150 with the 2.7L EcoBoost engine holds its own in terms of fuel economy. A comparable Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with a 5.3L V8 and 4WD typically achieves around 19 MPG combined, while a Ram 1500 with a 5.7L Hemi V8 and 4WD lands closer to 17 MPG combined. The Toyota Tundra, known for its reliable reliability but less so for fuel efficiency, manages only around 15 MPG combined with its 5.7L V8. This difference matters to F150 buyers who want the utility of a full-size truck, but also want to minimize fuel costs whenever possible.

If you want to see all Ford fuel economy data or even further, go into F150 MPG across all years, there are resources available.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Consider your tire pressure. Ensuring your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure, typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb, can significantly improve fuel economy. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially before long trips or when temperatures fluctuate.

Avoid unnecessary idling. Modern engines are designed to be efficient even at startup, so prolonged idling wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, it’s generally more efficient to turn off the engine. This is especially important for owners who frequently use their F150 in urban environments where idling is common.

Drive smoothly and avoid aggressive acceleration. The 2.7L EcoBoost provides adequate power without requiring you to constantly push the engine. Accelerate gently and maintain a consistent speed whenever possible. Anticipate traffic flow and avoid sudden braking, which wastes energy and requires you to accelerate again.

Reduce aerodynamic drag. Removing unnecessary items from the truck bed and using a tonneau cover can help to reduce aerodynamic drag, especially at highway speeds. Excessive drag forces the engine to work harder to maintain speed, increasing fuel consumption. A clean and streamlined truck is an efficient truck.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which can improve fuel economy on long trips. However, be mindful of terrain and traffic conditions. Cruise control may not be as effective in hilly areas or in heavy traffic, where frequent adjustments in speed are necessary.