The 2020 Ford F-150 4WD with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 gets 18 MPG combined. Nobody buys this truck because it’s fuel efficient. This F-150 is bought for its extremely high towing capacity, its comfortable and spacious cabin, and its legendary toughness, fuel economy is simply a tradeoff accepted by those who need a supremely capable workhorse.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2020 F-150 4×4 with the 3.5L EcoBoost will achieve 16 MPG in city driving and 22 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the constant stop-and-go inherent in urban environments, made worse by the F-150’s weight and four-wheel-drive system’s inherent drag. The highway number is more palatable, achievable when cruising at consistent speeds without heavy loads, although hitting this mark requires a disciplined right foot.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for this specific F-150 configuration is $2,450. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using a blend of city and highway driving conditions, and factoring in national average fuel prices. Of course, your actual fuel expenditures may vary depending on your driving habits, the specific price of gasoline in your area, and how heavily you use the truck’s capabilities.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, anecdotal evidence suggests that real-world MPG often deviates from these ratings. Drivers who frequently tow heavy loads, navigate challenging off-road terrain, or habitually engage in aggressive driving will likely see fuel economy figures significantly lower than the EPA estimates. Conversely, those who primarily use the F-150 for commuting or light-duty tasks on relatively flat terrain might achieve figures closer to, or even slightly exceeding, the EPA’s highway rating. For example, hauling 6,000 lbs on a regular basis will likely cut your mileage by 25%, while carefully managing throttle inputs and limiting top speed around 60 mph should yield the best results. Check out F150 MPG across all years to see how model years and engines compare.

How it compares

The 2020 F-150’s fuel economy sits roughly in the middle of its competitors when configured with four-wheel-drive and a six-cylinder engine. For example, the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 4WD with the 5.3L V8 is rated at 19 MPG combined, while the Ram 1500 4×4 with the eTorque 3.6L V6 achieves a similar 18 MPG. The Toyota Tundra, only offered with a V8, lags behind at just 14 MPG combined in 4×4 configuration. The Nissan Titan XD performs even more poorly. Remember that these MPG differences often come with compromises in towing capacity, payload, and overall performance. For some buyers, the F-150’s superior capabilities outweigh the marginal fuel cost increase. Researching all Ford fuel economy data can help you compare these models more thoroughly.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The EcoBoost engine in the F-150 is highly sensitive to throttle input. Gentle acceleration and maintaining consistent speeds are important for maximizing fuel economy. Avoid hard launches and excessive idling, as these behaviors significantly reduce MPG. Drive slowly and steadily, you will be pleased with the results.

Regular maintenance is critical for optimal fuel efficiency. Ensure that your tires are properly inflated, as underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel economy. Also, keep up with scheduled oil changes and air filter replacements, as these simple tasks can have a noticeable impact on MPG. Your dashboard can show individual tire pressure and alert you to drops in pressure.

Consider the weight you’re carrying. Unnecessary cargo in the bed of the truck or in the cabin adds weight, which reduces fuel efficiency. Remove any items that you don’t need, especially when driving around town. Every 100 lbs removed increases your MPG slightly, over time those small amounts add up!

Use the F-150’s driving modes effectively. The EcoBoost engine is often paired with a transmission that offers different driving modes. Experiment with “Eco” mode, which prioritizes fuel efficiency by adjusting the engine and transmission mapping. Some owners report gains when using this mode during routine commutes.

Reduce aerodynamic drag. Consider tonneau covers or bed caps. Although the results vary, controlled tests demonstrate that they smooth out the vehicle’s airflow and improve fuel efficiency on the highway. While the initial investment of a cover might seem expensive, it can pay for itself with long-term fuel savings.