19 MPG combined isn’t going to win any fuel economy awards, but it’s the price of owning a rear-wheel-drive 2019 Ford F-150 with the reliable 5.0L V8. This isn’t a truck bought by someone pinching pennies at the pump; it’s purchased by those who need the power and capability of a naturally aspirated eight-cylinder engine for towing, hauling, and simply getting the job done. For contractors, ranchers, and anyone who values traditional truck performance over outright efficiency, the 5.0L F-150 remains a choice, and they understand the fuel economy trade-off.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2019 Ford F-150 2WD FFV 5.0L achieves 17 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go driving conditions, where the truck’s weight and the engine’s displacement demand more fuel to get moving. The highway MPG shows a more efficient side, benefiting from the 10-speed automatic transmission (S10) finding the optimal gear and keeping the engine at a reasonable RPM. While 23 MPG isn’t revolutionary, it’s respectable for a full-size truck, especially one packing a V8. Drivers see that figure dip considerably if they are consistently towing or carrying heavy loads.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for this particular configuration of the 2019 Ford F-150 at $2,300. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do (city versus highway), and the prevailing fuel prices in your area. Drivers who use their F-150 primarily for short trips around town will likely see a higher annual fuel cost, while those who spend more time on the open road will probably be closer to or even slightly below the EPA estimate.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA numbers provide a useful benchmark, real-world fuel economy can differ significantly. Factors like driving style, terrain, weather conditions, and the weight of cargo or trailers can all influence your MPG. Aggressive acceleration, frequent braking, and prolonged idling will all decrease fuel efficiency. Similarly, driving in hilly or mountainous areas can put extra strain on the engine and reduce MPG. Many owners report achieving numbers close to the EPA estimates under normal driving conditions, but acknowledge that fuel economy can drop dramatically when towing or hauling heavy loads. Owners can consult the F150 MPG across all years to see how these numbers compare to other model years and engine options.

How it compares

The 2019 F-150 5.0L’s fuel economy is competitive within its class, but it’s important to see how it stacks up against rival trucks. A comparable Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with the 5.3L V8 and rear-wheel drive achieves about 17 MPG combined. The Ram 1500 with the 5.7L V8 and rear-wheel drive also lands around 17 MPG combined. The key here is assessing the tradeoff this F-150 buyer is willing to make. If fuel economy is important, the F-150’s 2.7L EcoBoost V6 offers significantly better mileage (around 22 MPG combined), but sacrifices some of the raw power and classic V8 sound that the 5.0L provides. The Toyota Tundra, known for its reliability but not its fuel efficiency, typically lags behind by a couple MPG, with a combined figure around 15 MPG for its 5.7L V8. Considering all Ford fuel economy data, it is clear that truck buyers have many Ford powertrains to choose from today.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Regular maintenance is crucial for maximizing fuel economy. Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure, as underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and decrease MPG. Similarly, keep up with scheduled oil changes and air filter replacements to ensure your engine is running efficiently. A clean air filter allows the engine to breathe easier, improving combustion and fuel economy.

Avoid aggressive driving habits such as rapid acceleration and hard braking. These actions waste fuel and put unnecessary strain on the engine and drivetrain. Instead, accelerate smoothly and maintain a steady speed whenever possible. Anticipating traffic flow and avoiding sudden stops can also significantly improve fuel efficiency.

Minimize idling time. Idling consumes fuel without moving the vehicle, so avoid letting the engine run unnecessarily. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Many newer vehicles have automatic start/stop systems that shut off the engine at traffic lights, but the 2019 F-150 5.0L doesn’t have this feature, so it’s up to the driver to manage idling time.

When hauling cargo or towing a trailer, ensure the load is properly distributed and secured. An unbalanced load can increase drag and reduce fuel economy. Use the appropriate tow mode setting (if equipped) to optimize transmission performance and prevent unnecessary strain on the engine. Also, consider reducing your speed when towing, as higher speeds significantly increase wind resistance and fuel consumption.