20 MPG combined is what Ford F150 4×4 owners with the 3.3L V6 engine likely accept. They understand they’ve chosen a capable workhorse, not a hyper-efficient commuter, and this fuel economy delivers enough utility without breaking the bank entirely. This F150 configuration appeals to buyers who need four-wheel drive for challenging job sites or winter conditions but aren’t willing to pay extra for larger engines or the diesel option.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates this particular F150 gets 18 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go traffic, where the truck’s weight and the engine’s need to work harder take a toll. The highway number is better, owing to consistent speeds where the six-speed automatic transmission can settle into its higher gears, maximizing efficiency. These figures are critical for prospective buyers to consider, especially those whose driving habits heavily favor one environment over the other. You can view F150 MPG across all years, too.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for this 2018 Ford F150 4×4 with the 3.3L V6 to be $2,200. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using the EPA’s combined MPG figure and assumes fuel prices based on national averages assessed at the time of testing. This figure gives potential buyers a concrete dollar amount to factor into their budgets, allowing them to compare the running costs against other trucks and different powertrains.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, real-world MPG will vary. Factors like aggressive driving, towing, carrying heavy loads, neglecting maintenance, and using four-wheel drive frequently can all negatively impact fuel economy.

Owners who consistently drive conservatively, keep their tires properly inflated, and avoid unnecessary idling are more likely to match or even slightly exceed the EPA estimates. Understanding your own driving habits is crucial for accurately predicting fuel costs.

How it compares

Compared to other full-size trucks, this F150 configuration lands in the middle of the pack for fuel economy. A comparable 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with a 4.3L V6 and four-wheel drive achieves roughly similar numbers, around 17 MPG city and 22 MPG highway. Stepping up to larger V8 engines in either the F150 or Silverado would typically reduce fuel economy by 2-3 MPG. The Ram 1500, known for its ride comfort, posts similar figures with its V6 options, but the eTorque mild-hybrid system can improve those numbers slightly. The Toyota Tundra, with its standard V8, generally lags behind in fuel economy, rarely achieving more than 18 MPG combined.

These MPG differences matter to buyers concerned about long-term running costs and less gas. You can review all Ford fuel economy data too.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Aggressive acceleration and hard braking burn more fuel. Gentle acceleration lets the engine operate in its most efficient zone, and anticipating traffic flow allows for smoother deceleration. This driving style is important on this F150 with the smaller V6 as you will have to use a heavier right foot to get it up to speed, so try to resist the urge.

Tire pressure directly impacts rolling resistance. Underinflated tires create more friction, forcing the engine to work harder. Regularly checking and maintaining the recommended tire pressure will improve fuel economy. Check the sticker on the driver’s side door jamb for the correct pressure.

Avoid unnecessary idling. Idling burns fuel without covering any distance. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, making this a simple way to conserve fuel. This is especially important for contractors and job site workers who spend a lot of time parked, but with their engines running.

Using four-wheel drive engages the transfer case and front differential, increasing drivetrain friction and reducing fuel economy. Only engage four-wheel drive when necessary, such as on slippery surfaces or challenging terrain. Leaving it in two-wheel drive for normal on-road driving will save fuel.

Excess weight reduces fuel economy. Removing unnecessary items from the truck bed or cabin reduces the load on the engine. Hauling extra weight constantly is like driving uphill all the time. Clean out the bed regularly and only carry what you need.