24 MPG combined is a surprisingly palatable number for a full-size, four-wheel-drive pickup truck like the 2018 Ford F150 XL/XLT with the 3.0L Power Stroke diesel. Nobody buys an F150 expecting Prius-like fuel sipping. This configuration offers a blend of capability and efficiency that appeals to a specific buyer. This is for the contractor who needs to haul materials to the job site during the week and tow a camper on the weekends, or for the outdoorsman who ventures far from paved roads but doesn’t want to break the bank at the pump. They’re willing to pay a premium for diesel and DEF fluid in exchange for respectable mileage and impressive torque.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2018 Ford F150 3.0L diesel at 21 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, where the F150’s weight and internal combustion take their toll. The highway number illustrates the diesel’s strength: cruising efficiently at steady speeds. The 10-speed automatic transmission plays an important role here, keeping the engine in its optimal power band and maximizing fuel economy at higher speeds. These are laboratory-derived figures and your mileage will vary depending on driving style, load, and terrain. The split between city and highway highlights where this truck performs best.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Ford F150 Pickup 4WD XL/XLT 3.0L 6-cyl at $2,300. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 45% of those miles driven in the city and 55% on the highway. It also assumes a national average fuel price, which fluctuates considerably. Diesel prices are often, but not always, higher than gasoline. This annual cost is a useful benchmark for comparison against other vehicles, but your own spending will depend entirely on how and where you drive. It’s a good idea to look up local diesel prices to see how they compare to the national average factored into the EPA’s calculation.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, real-world MPG often differs. Factors like aggressive acceleration, extended idling, towing, and tire pressure can significantly impact fuel economy. Owners of this F150 configuration often report mileage that hovers around the EPA combined figure of 24 MPG. Some experience slightly lower numbers in predominantly city driving, especially when carrying heavy loads. And those who prioritize highway driving and drive efficiently often report figures closer to the estimated 28 MPG. Careful driving habits are key to achieving the best possible fuel economy.

How it compares

Compared to its gasoline-powered counterparts, the 3.0L diesel F150 fares well. For example, the 2018 F150 with the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 and four-wheel drive achieves around 20 MPG combined. The larger 5.0L V8 with four-wheel drive typically sees even lower numbers, often in the 17-19 MPG range. When considering other brands, a 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with the 5.3L V8 and four-wheel drive averages around 18 MPG, while a Ram 1500 with the 5.7L Hemi and four-wheel drive comes in at a similar 17 MPG combined. This better fuel economy is a selling point for buyers who need the capability of a full-size truck but want less gas. For access to all Ford fuel economy data, you can explore different models and years. You can also view F150 MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Given the nature of the 3.0L Power Stroke diesel, smooth and gradual acceleration is key. Avoid hard launches and aggressive pedal inputs, as these actions dramatically increase fuel consumption. The diesel engine delivers its torque at low RPMs, so pull smoothly rather than forcing it to rev high.

Regular maintenance is also important. Ensure that your tires are properly inflated and that the engine is serviced according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently, contributing to better fuel economy. Pay close attention to the diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) level and top it off as needed.

Plan your routes minimizing stop-and-go driving. Consider navigation apps to identify routes with less traffic congestion. Avoiding rush hour and choosing routes with fewer intersections can improve your city MPG.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Hauling extra weight in your truck bed decreases fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items that you’re carrying to lighten the load and improve efficiency. Consider a tonneau cover for the bed. There is debate about how much aero benefit this offers, but it does at least prevent you from hauling extra “stuff.”