18 MPG combined won’t win any fuel economy awards, but it’s what you get for a full-size truck that prioritizes off-road capability and strong styling. The 2021 Ford F150 Tremor 4WD, with its 3.5L EcoBoost V6, isn’t for those obsessed with getting the best mileage; it’s built for those who need a truck that can confidently tackle challenging terrain while still being an everyday F150.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the F150 Tremor at 16 MPG in the city and 20 MPG on the highway. These figures are a compromise for a vehicle designed for both on-road comfort and off-road capability. The city MPG is lower because of frequent stop-and-go traffic, which forces the engine to work harder to move the truck’s weight. The highway MPG is slightly better, as consistent speeds allow the engine to operate more efficiently. The ten-speed automatic transmission helps here, keeping the engine in its optimal power band.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA says the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Ford F150 Tremor 4WD is $2,450. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Remember that your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, fuel prices in your area, and how often you off-road, which can significantly impact fuel consumption.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standardized estimate, but real-world fuel economy can differ. Owners report that aggressive driving, towing, or frequent off-road trips can drop MPG figures below the EPA estimates. But careful driving and prioritizing highway miles can sometimes yield slightly better results. The Tremor’s fuel economy depends on driving style and how you use the truck.

How it compares

The F150 Tremor’s fuel economy is worse than less off-road-focused trucks. A standard 2021 F150 4×4 with the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 gets a combined 22 MPG, a noticeable improvement. The RAM 1500 Rebel, a direct competitor with similar off-road goals, achieves an EPA-estimated 19 MPG combined with its 5.7L Hemi V8. The Chevrolet Silverado Trail Boss manages around 17 MPG combined with its 5.3L V8 engine. The Tremor’s numbers aren’t the best, but those considering it often prioritize its blend of off-road capability and styling over maximizing fuel efficiency. You can view F150 MPG across all years for more perspective.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Lighten the load. Reducing the amount of weight you carry in the bed of the truck can help fuel economy. Removing unnecessary tools or equipment, especially heavy items, will ease the strain on the engine and improve gas mileage.

Drive smoothly. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking, as these habits consume more fuel. Gently accelerate from stops and maintain a consistent speed on the highway to optimize fuel efficiency.

Monitor tire pressure. Maintaining the correct tire pressure, as indicated on the doorjamb sticker, ensures optimal rolling resistance. Underinflated tires increase friction and reduce fuel economy, while properly inflated tires improve efficiency and handling.

Limit idling. Excessive idling wastes fuel, especially in colder weather. If you anticipate being stationary for more than a few minutes, turn off the engine to conserve fuel. The EcoBoost engine consumes fuel even at idle, so minimizing idle time is critical.

Use cruise control wisely. Engaging cruise control on the highway helps maintain a consistent speed, which can improve fuel economy. However, be mindful of hilly terrain, as the cruise control system may downshift to maintain speed, negating some of the efficiency gains. Understanding all Ford fuel economy data can help you make wiser choices for every day driving.