The 2018 Ford F150 2WD with the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 gets 22 MPG combined. That figure is good for many F150 buyers, providing enough truck to handle serious work and towing, yet it’s economical enough for daily commutes and family duties. This isn’t a truck purchased primarily for hyper-miling, but its efficiency means you won’t need frequent trips to the gas station, a critical factor for owners who rely on it for both business and personal use. It balances capability and operational cost, a deciding factor for many choosing between the various F150 engine options.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2018 F150 2WD 2.7L EcoBoost at 20 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the engine’s ability to shut off during stops, a feature that noticeably improves fuel consumption in stop-and-go traffic. The 26 MPG highway figure is impressive considering the F150’s aerodynamics and weight. This highway fuel economy is easily attainable when driven conservatively, making it a reasonable choice for long-distance travel carrying passengers and cargo.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,000 for the 2018 Ford F150 2WD 2.7L EcoBoost. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway. The calculation also assumes national average fuel prices, which fluctuate but provide a standardized benchmark for comparison. For owners exceeding 15,000 miles annually, or those in areas with higher fuel prices, the actual cost will likely be higher. Those who drive fewer miles can expect to pay less. This fuel cost figure is intended as an estimate only.

Real-world expectations

While EPA estimates provide a useful benchmark, real-world fuel economy varies based on driving habits, load, and terrain. Aggressive acceleration, frequent hard braking, towing, or carrying heavy loads will all negatively impact fuel economy. Owners frequently comment on the F150’s sensitivity to driving style; a gentle foot yields better results. Expect to see numbers closer to the EPA estimates when driving conservatively on flat terrain, but anticipate a dip when tackling hills or using the truck for its intended purpose. Explore F150 MPG across all years.

How it compares

Compared to other full-size trucks from 2018, the F150 2WD 2.7L stands out with its balance of power and efficiency. Consider the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 2WD with the 5.3L V8, which achieves around 19 MPG combined. The Ram 1500 2WD with the 3.6L V6 offers slightly better-advertised numbers in some configurations, landing around 21 MPG combined, but often delivers similar real-world performance to the F150. The older Nissan Titan from this era struggles to hit 18 MPG combined, showing how the F150’s EcoBoost engine gave it an edge. For buyers who need a truck, but prioritize fuel efficiency, these MPG differences often influence purchase decisions. Check all Ford fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the F150’s Eco mode to optimize fuel consumption. This mode adjusts throttle response and shift patterns to prioritize efficiency over performance. It’s particularly useful for highway driving when maintaining a consistent speed, and can noticeably improve your mileage on longer trips.

Monitor your tire pressure regularly. Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance, which translates directly into better fuel economy. The correct tire pressure is listed on the sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb. An inexpensive tire pressure gauge can pay for itself quickly in fuel savings.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra tools, equipment, or other items in the bed of the truck can significantly impact fuel economy. Only carry what you need for the current task. Keeping the bed relatively empty will help the 2.7L EcoBoost engine work more efficiently.

Anticipate traffic flow and minimize hard acceleration and braking. The 2.7L EcoBoost responds well to smooth, consistent driving. By looking ahead and maintaining a steady speed, you can avoid sudden bursts of acceleration and conserve fuel. This driving style also improves the life of your brakes and tires.

Avoid idling for extended periods. Modern engines don’t need extended warm-up times, so avoid letting the truck idle unnecessarily. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. This simple action can make a difference in your fuel consumption over time.