While 20 MPG combined won’t lead the fuel efficiency category, it’s a respectable figure for the 2019 Ford F150 4WD with the base payload package, LT tires, and the 2.7L EcoBoost V6. It’s a workhorse, built for contractors, ranchers, and anyone who needs a truck that doesn’t completely break the bank at the pump. This specific configuration prioritizes utility and capability over fuel savings, a tradeoff owners understand.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for this F150 configuration are 18 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. The city MPG reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, where the engine works harder to accelerate. The highway figure showcases the EcoBoost engine’s ability to maintain efficiency when cruising at steady speeds. The 10-speed automatic transmission also helps, keeping the engine in its optimal power band for fuel conservation. The 2.7L EcoBoost is a strong, smooth engine, and while it works relatively hard in a full-size truck, it balances power and economy.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for this 2019 Ford F150 4WD to be $2,200. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, using national average fuel prices at the time of calculation. Your fuel costs will vary depending on your driving, local fuel prices, and the grade of gasoline you choose. However, $2,200 is a benchmark when budgeting for the cost of owning this truck. Aggressive driving, towing, or hauling heavy loads will increase fuel consumption and your annual fuel expenditure. Compare all Ford fuel economy data to see how this compares to other models.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates are a benchmark, real-world fuel economy can vary. Owners of this F150 report figures close to, but often slightly below, the EPA estimates. Factors like driving style, load weight, tire pressure, and weather influence fuel consumption. Expect a MPG drop if you frequently tow or haul heavy loads. And, if you primarily use the truck for light-duty tasks and prioritize fuel efficiency, you might achieve figures closer to the EPA’s highway estimate.

Regular maintenance, like proper tire inflation and timely oil changes, helps maintain fuel economy.

How it compares

The 2019 F150 4WD with the 2.7L EcoBoost engine compares well to competitors. A comparable Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with the 5.3L V8 and 4WD delivers combined MPG in the 17-19 range, making the F150 slightly more efficient. A Ram 1500 with the eTorque mild-hybrid system might achieve similar MPG figures, around 20 MPG combined, but its system adds complexity and cost, particularly if you need the 4WD package. The Toyota Tundra, known for its reliability but not fuel efficiency, often gets 15-17 MPG combined with its V8 engine.

Owners who choose the F150 with the 2.7L often do so because of its capability, moderate fuel economy, and low cost of entry. Compare F150 MPG across all years and engine configurations for more info.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and braking are important for maximizing fuel economy in any vehicle, but especially in a truck designed for towing. Avoid aggressive starts and hard stops, which burn more fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed to reduce wasted energy.

Tire pressure affects fuel efficiency, particularly with the LT tires specified for this F150. Ensure your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure, which can be found on the doorjamb sticker. Underinflated tires create rolling resistance, reducing fuel economy and increasing tire wear.

Reduce idling. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Excessive idling consumes fuel without moving the vehicle, impacting your MPG. While the start/stop system on some F150 trims can help, this base payload model may not have that feature.

Reduce weight in the truck bed. Extra weight adds to the engine’s workload, decreasing fuel economy. Remove items you don’t need, especially heavy tools or equipment, to improve your fuel efficency.