24 MPG combined in a 4×4 pickup isn’t great, but it’s a real achievement for the 2019 Ford F150 XL or XLT equipped with the 3.0L Power Stroke diesel. This isn’t a Prius; it’s a workhorse designed for hauling, towing, and navigating tough terrain. The diesel engine prioritizes torque and durability over fuel efficiency. Buyers choose this engine knowing the trade-offs involved. They value pulling power and highway cruising range more than saving money at the pump.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates this F150 gets 21 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go driving that slows large vehicles. The engine constantly works to overcome inertia in those conditions. However, the highway rating is where the diesel shines, where the engine delivers good efficiency for a full-size truck. The 10-speed automatic transmission (S10) plays an important role, keeping the engine at the right RPMs for maximum fuel conservation at any speed.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost at $2,300 for this F150. This is based on 15,000 miles per year, with 55% in the city and 45% on the highway. It uses national average fuel prices. Your actual costs depend on your driving, local prices, and conditions.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates are a baseline, but expect real-world MPG to change. Towing heavy loads or using four-wheel drive lowers MPG a lot. Steady highway driving might beat the EPA’s 28 MPG. Payload matters too, but not as much as increased speeds. Drivers who accelerate smoothly and anticipate traffic will see the best results.

How it compares

The 2019 F150’s diesel fuel economy is pretty good compared to competitors. Direct comparisons are tough because of different engine and trim choices. The Ram 1500 EcoDiesel, in similar 4×4 builds, often gets similar or slightly better highway MPG (around 29 MPG). However, the real difference isn’t much. The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with its available 3.0L Duramax diesel also competes, with EPA ratings like the Ford’s. F150 buyers know it might not win on fuel economy, but they might like Ford’s interior, towing, or driving feel.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Smooth acceleration is key to better fuel economy. This is especially true with a diesel. Avoid quick starts and stops. Let the engine build power gradually. This prevents fuel waste, especially in cities.

Check your tire pressure often. Low tires increase rolling resistance. This makes the engine work harder and use more fuel. See the sticker on your driver’s side door for the right pressure.

Keep idling time short, especially when it’s cold. Modern diesels warm up fast, so lengthy idling isn’t needed. Turn off the engine if you’re stopped for more than a minute to save fuel.

Reduce extra weight in the truck bed. Extra gear makes the vehicle heavier and lowers fuel economy. Just carry what you need, and add a tonneau cover for cargo.

Plan trips carefully to reduce stop-and-go driving. Use navigation apps to find routes with less traffic. Less traffic means less idling, less braking, and better fuel economy. For all Ford fuel economy data, or to compare F150 MPG across all years, visit FuelEconomyHub.com