20 MPG combined isn’t great, but for a four-wheel-drive, full-size pickup truck capable of serious work, the 2020 Ford F-150 with its 3.3L V6 is reasonably in the middle. This configuration appeals to buyers who need a truck’s power but aren’t focused on maximum towing or fast acceleration. They’re looking for a reliable workhorse, often for fleet use, or for lighter-duty tasks where a V8’s extra capability isn’t needed. These buyers accept the fuel economy as a worthwhile compromise between capability and cost for *their* needs. They understand this F-150 won’t win any efficiency awards, but it also won’t cost as much initially as some of its higher-powered models.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 18 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway for this F-150. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go driving in cities, where the truck’s weight and the energy needed to accelerate from a stop impact fuel economy. The highway number, while better, still lags behind some competitors, mainly because the F-150’s design prioritizes presence and utility over aerodynamics. The relatively simple six-speed automatic transmission also affects the fuel economy, compared to newer transmissions with more gears.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,200 for the 2020 Ford F-150 Pickup 4WD FFV 3.3L 6-cyl. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving, city versus highway driving, and the price of gasoline in your area. This $2,200 figure provides a standard for comparing fuel costs across different vehicles, but remember it’s an estimate.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates provide a baseline, but real-world fuel economy often differs. Factors like driving style, load, and even tire pressure greatly impact the MPG you’ll get. Expect numbers slightly below the EPA estimates if you often haul heavy loads, tow trailers, or drive aggressively. However, gentle acceleration, consistent speeds, and regular maintenance can help you get close to or even beat the official ratings. Terrain also matters. Driving in hilly areas, or at higher altitudes, usually reduces fuel economy. See all all Ford fuel economy data.

How it compares

The 20 MPG combined rating places this F-150 with other similar trucks. For example, a 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with a 4.3L V6 and 4WD is rated at 17 MPG combined. A Ram 1500 with the 3.6L V6 eTorque mild-hybrid system and 4WD gets a slightly better 21 MPG combined. The Toyota Tundra, known for its reliability but not its fuel efficiency, with its standard 5.7L V8 and 4WD, only gets 14 MPG combined. For a wider view, examine F150 MPG across all years. The decent fuel consumption of this F-150 is attractive to buyers who want a full-size truck’s utility without the high gas costs of thirstier V8 options, which also usually cost more.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is important. The 3.3L V6, while strong, works best when you avoid aggressive throttle. Smooth acceleration uses less fuel than abrupt starts and stops.

Keep proper tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and burn more fuel. Check your tire pressure often and inflate them to the levels on the driver’s side doorjamb.

Reduce weight. Carrying extra weight in the truck bed, even tools or equipment you don’t need for a trip, hurts fuel economy. Empty the bed and cab of unnecessary items.

Anticipate traffic and avoid braking. Coasting to a red light or slowing down gradually when approaching slower traffic uses less fuel than hard braking. Keeping a consistent speed also helps MPG.

Consider cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps keep a consistent speed, which can improve fuel economy, especially on long highway drives. However, don’t use cruise control on hills, as it can sometimes cause downshifts and more fuel use.