24 MPG combined might not sound groundbreaking, but for the 2020 Ford F150 2WD with the 3.0L Power Stroke diesel, it represents a good balance of capability and efficiency. This appeals to truck buyers who need to tow or haul regularly but don’t want to spend a lot of money on gas during daily driving.

City and highway performance

The F150’s 3.0L diesel gets respectable fuel economy in both city and highway settings. The EPA estimates 21 MPG in city driving, which is reasonable for a full-size pickup that delivers a comfortable ride. On the open road, that number climbs to an impressive 29 MPG. This makes it a surprisingly good long-distance cruiser, capable of covering miles without frequent fuel stops. The 10-speed automatic transmission helps maintain optimal engine speed for both power and efficiency, contributing to the overall fuel economy performance. It’s a smooth-shifting unit that knows when to hold a gear for towing and when to upshift for maximum MPG.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for this F150 configuration is $2,300. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on how many miles you drive, the specific type of driving you do (city vs. highway), and fuel prices in your area. The $2,300 figure provides a solid baseline for comparing the F150 3.0L diesel to other trucks and SUVs.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a useful baseline, real-world fuel economy often changes. Driving style, load weight, tire pressure, and weather conditions can all impact MPG. Aggressive acceleration and frequent hard braking will reduce fuel efficiency. Drivers who regularly tow heavy loads will also see a decrease in MPG. However, drivers who prioritize smooth acceleration, maintain proper tire inflation, and minimize idling can often approach or even exceed the EPA estimates. Understanding these factors is critical for maximizing the fuel economy of your F150.

How it compares

The 2020 F150 2WD 3.0L diesel competes well. A comparable Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with the 3.0L Duramax diesel achieves an EPA-estimated 23 MPG combined. Ram’s 1500 EcoDiesel manages around 26 MPG combined. The Ram gets a slight edge, but the F150’s slightly lower price point and more reliable towing history make it a good alternative. For buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency, a mid-size truck like the Toyota Tacoma (around 21 MPG combined for the V6 2WD) offers better numbers. However, the Tacoma lacks the capability and interior space of the F150. People choose the F150 specifically because it performs like a full-size. You can explore all Ford fuel economy data to put this F150 in fuller historical context. Comparing F150 MPG across all years also shows the improvements Ford has made over time.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The F150 3.0L diesel responds well to a gentle driving style. Avoid rapid acceleration and hard braking, which waste fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible. Using cruise control on the highway can also help fuel efficiency.

Proper maintenance is essential for maximizing MPG. Ensure that your tires are properly inflated according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Low tire pressure increases rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Regular oil changes and air filter replacements also contribute to engine performance and efficiency.

Minimize idling. Excessive idling consumes fuel without moving the vehicle, reducing MPG. If you anticipate being stationary for more than a minute or two, it’s generally more fuel-efficient to turn off the engine. Install a tonneau cover. A cover will aid in aerodynamics and help add a few MPG.

When towing, select the appropriate tow/haul mode. This mode optimizes the transmission’s shift points for towing, preventing engine strain and improving fuel efficiency. Distribute cargo weight evenly and avoid exceeding the vehicle’s maximum towing capacity. Pay attention to your route. Flat roads will obviously be more fuel efficient than a route with a lot of hills.