The 2019 Ford F150 Raptor 4WD gets 16 MPG combined. Focusing on just this number, however, misses the Raptor’s purpose. It’s not a grocery-getter or commuter. It’s a high-performance off-road machine built like a pickup truck, which comes with using more gas.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Raptor gets 15 MPG in the city and 18 MPG on the highway. These numbers are due to the heavy weight, the aggressive tires, and the powerful turbocharged engine. The city MPG shows how much stop-and-go situations affect the Raptor’s fuel consumption. The highway figure is better, relatively speaking, but still not class-leading. If you consider the weight, the oversized tires, the poor aerodynamics, and the eagerness of the 3.5L EcoBoost engine, these numbers become less surprising. It’s a trade-off, performance and off-road dominance versus using more gas at the pump.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Ford F150 Raptor is $2,750. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and a national average fuel price. This can change based on your driving, the type of fuel you use (premium is recommended), and local prices. Drivers who frequently push the Raptor will likely exceed this estimate, while those with a lighter touch can stay close to this benchmark. If you’re buying a Raptor, you’re probably not worried about saving every penny on gas.

Real-world expectations

Forget the EPA numbers. Raptor owners report a wide range of fuel economy figures, often lower than the official estimates. Factors like driving style, terrain, and modifications (e.g., larger tires, lift kits) matter. Those who spend most of their time off-road can expect to see significantly lower MPG. Drivers who primarily use the Raptor for on-road commuting with a steady driving style might achieve closer to the EPA highway estimate. Ultimately, 13-17 MPG is a realistic range for most Raptor owners.

How it compares

The Raptor’s fuel economy is on the lower end for full-size trucks. A standard 2019 F150 4×4 with the 2.7L EcoBoost engine, for example, achieves a combined 20 MPG. Even the 5.0L V8 F150 manages around 19 MPG. Rivals like the Ram 1500 with the eTorque mild-hybrid system can achieve similar or slightly better mileage depending on configuration. However, none of these trucks offer the Raptor’s extreme off-road capabilities. The Chevrolet Colorado ZR2, while smaller, has similar economy at 17 MPG combined. Buyers are seeking unparalleled off-road performance and an aggressive look and aren’t looking for the most economical truck. For more insight, explore F150 MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the Raptor prioritizes performance over fuel economy, you can still improve your mileage. Avoid fast acceleration and braking. The EcoBoost engine responds quickly, and using the pedal too much will lower fuel efficiency. Use cruise control on the highway to keep a steady speed and minimize changes in fuel consumption.

Make sure your tires have enough air. Low pressure increases rolling resistance, which lowers MPG. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level, especially before long trips. Off-road tires, while needed for the Raptor, aren’t the best for highway efficiency.

Remove extra weight. Carrying extra cargo in the bed adds to the vehicle’s load and lowers fuel economy. Remove unnecessary items from the truck bed to reduce weight and improve efficiency. Consider removing accessories like roof racks when not in use.

Keep up with regular maintenance. A well-maintained engine runs better. Follow the recommended maintenance schedule for your Raptor, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements. Routine maintenance ensures the engine operates well and maximizes fuel economy. Check all Ford fuel economy data for more information.