21 MPG combined isn’t going to win any fuel sipper awards, but for a four-wheel-drive pickup truck with real capability, it’s a good balance of utility and reasonable fuel consumption. The 2019 Ford F-150 4×4, with the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 and 10-speed automatic, is for buyers who require a truck for work and recreation but don’t want to completely sacrifice fuel economy. It’s a practical choice, prioritizing efficiency over maximum towing for everyday driving. These owners are likely weekend warriors, DIY enthusiasts, or small business owners who occasionally haul materials, not those who tow heavy equipment daily.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates of 19 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway show the 2.7L EcoBoost’s strengths. Its dual turbochargers deliver torque at low RPMs, helping the F-150 feel responsive around town, where stop-and-go driving often hurts fuel economy in larger trucks. The 24 MPG highway figure is respectable and achievable because the 10-speed automatic transmission lets the engine cruise at low RPMs when possible. Drivers who spend much of their time on the open road often see numbers close to the EPA estimate. However, the 4×4 system adds weight and aerodynamic drag, which impacts efficiency compared to the rear-wheel-drive version. Be sure to view F150 MPG across all years to compare specs.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the 2019 Ford F-150 4×4 2.7L EcoBoost will cost $2,100 per year in fuel. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with about 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway, and using the national average fuel price. Your actual fuel costs will vary based on your driving habits, the type of driving you do, and your local fuel prices. Drivers who mainly use their F-150 for short trips in the city or those who regularly tow will probably exceed this estimate, while those who mostly commute on the highway may get better fuel economy and lower annual costs.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standard testing method, but real-world fuel economy for the 2019 F-150 4×4 2.7L will change. Aggressive driving, like rapid acceleration and hard braking, will lower your MPG. Towing, even light loads, will significantly drop fuel efficiency. In contrast, consistent highway driving at moderate speeds will produce the best results. Tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and even weather conditions can affect fuel consumption. Don’t expect to consistently achieve the EPA highway figure if you often haul a trailer. Instead, remember that 21 MPG combined is the goal, and your personal results will fluctuate around that number.

How it compares

Compared to other full-size trucks, the 2019 F-150 4×4 2.7L EcoBoost is competitive. A comparable Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with the 5.3L V8 and four-wheel drive is rated at 17 MPG combined. The Toyota Tundra, known for its reliability but not its fuel efficiency, delivers an EPA-estimated 14 MPG combined with its 5.7L V8 and standard four-wheel drive. Even the Ram 1500, often praised for its comfort, struggles to match the F-150’s efficiency in similar configurations. The Ram 1500’s eTorque 4×4 V6 comes close at 21 combined MPG (the same as the F-150), but you have to want the specific equipment group that this feature comes with. The F150’s main rivals also offer diesel options, but these come with higher initial cost and maintenance. To compare, check all Ford fuel economy data. The efficiency of the 2.7L EcoBoost is a key selling point for buyers who want the capability of a full-size truck without giving up all sense of fuel economy.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration. The 2.7L EcoBoost delivers ample torque at low RPMs, so gentle acceleration is usually enough. Pressing hard on the accelerator will quickly reduce fuel economy. The engine management system responds well to a light foot, optimizing fuel delivery for smooth, efficient progress.

Monitor your tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Check the sticker on your driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended tire pressure, and check your tires at least once a month.

Minimize idling. Modern engines don’t need to warm up for several minutes before driving. Extended idling wastes fuel and creates unnecessary emissions. If you expect to be stopped for more than 30 seconds, consider turning off the engine.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra tools, equipment, or personal items in the bed of your truck increases its weight and reduces fuel economy. Remove any items that aren’t needed for your daily driving to lighten the load.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a constant speed on the open road helps improve fuel efficiency. Cruise control prevents unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, leading to more consistent and economical fuel consumption.