19 MPG combined is what you’ll likely get with the 2020 Ford F150 2WD with the 3.5L V6. Let’s be clear: Nobody buys this truck because they want Prius-like fuel sipping. This is a workhorse, a hauler built to accomplish serious tasks. The target demographic prioritizes capability and reliability over segment-leading fuel efficiency, but that doesn’t mean economy is irrelevant.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 17 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway for this particular F150 configuration. These numbers reflect the inherent tradeoffs in truck design. City driving involves frequent stops and starts, which tax fuel economy because of the truck’s weight and the energy required to overcome inertia. Highway driving, however, allows the engine to settle into a more efficient cruising speed, though the large frontal area of the F150 still impacts fuel consumption because of wind resistance.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for this F150 is approximately $2,300. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices at the time of calculation. Keep in mind that your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the specific type of driving you do. Someone who consistently tows heavy loads or drives aggressively will likely see a higher annual fuel expenditure.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates provide a standardized benchmark, but real-world MPG can vary significantly based on several factors. Driving style plays a major role. Hard acceleration, frequent braking, and high speeds will negatively impact fuel economy. Load weight is also a crucial factor. Hauling heavy cargo or towing will substantially decrease MPG.

Terrain is another consideration; driving in hilly or mountainous areas requires more engine power and thus higher fuel consumption. Finally, proper maintenance, including regular oil changes and tire inflation, is essential for maintaining optimal fuel efficiency. Remember that these factors influence fuel economy on all vehicles, especially trucks, but it’s even more important because this F150’s 3.5L V6 is not turbocharged, so demands on the engine will impact economy.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the 2020 F150 2WD 3.5L V6 lands in a reasonable position. For example, the 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with the 4.3L V6 (2WD) is rated at 17 MPG combined, putting it behind the F150. The Ram 1500 Classic with the 3.6L V6 is EPA-rated for 19 combined MPG as well, so essentially equivalent, but its real-world performance falls off more sharply when hauling. For buyers comparing F150 MPG across all years and considering different engines, it’s a landscape of subtle differences, and these small differences may be the deciding factor for budget-conscious buyers who use their trucks heavily. The F150’s aluminum body construction contributes to its relatively lighter weight, potentially helping fuel economy, but other factors like transmission tuning and aerodynamic design also play a role. You can review all Ford fuel economy data on our site.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration. The F150’s 3.5L V6 has adequate power, but stomping on the gas pedal consumes extra fuel. Gentle and gradual acceleration will significantly improve your MPG.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which increases fuel consumption. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended PSI, typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying heavy items in the bed of your truck when they are not needed negatively impacts fuel economy. Remove any excess weight to improve MPG, especially when you are driving daily.

Plan your trips efficiently. Combining errands into a single trip minimizes cold starts, which use more fuel. Route planning will help you avoid stop-and-go traffic, which can dramatically increase fuel consumption.

Consider a tonneau cover. While the exact impact on fuel economy is debated, a tonneau cover can improve the truck’s aerodynamics, especially at highway speeds. This can translate to a small but noticeable increase in MPG over time.