The 2024 Ford F150 Raptor gets 16 MPG combined. Nobody buys a Raptor expecting Prius-like efficiency. This is a high-performance off-road truck designed for conquering dunes and Baja-style terrain, not maximizing gas mileage. It’s a purpose-built machine, and its fuel consumption is a direct consequence of its capabilities.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the F150 Raptor break down to 14 MPG in the city and 18 MPG on the highway. The lower city figure reflects the stop-and-go traffic and constant acceleration that the Raptor’s torque-rich 3.5L EcoBoost V6 has to overcome. The highway number improves a bit, but even at a steady cruise, the Raptor’s aggressive tires, significant weight, and less-than-aerodynamic profile work against optimal fuel efficiency. The 10-speed automatic transmission does its best to keep the engine in its sweet spot, but physics are physics. Expect these numbers to drop even further if you’re frequently using the Raptor’s off-road features or towing.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2024 Ford F150 Raptor at $2,750. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway, and using current national average fuel prices. Remember that this is just an estimate, your actual costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and prevailing fuel prices in your area. Owners who live in areas with higher than average fuel costs can expect to pay significantly more.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates offer a baseline, real-world fuel economy for the Raptor is often lower, especially for those who frequently engage in the kind of driving the Raptor was designed for. Don’t be surprised to see averages closer to 12-15 MPG in mixed driving, particularly if you have a heavy foot or spend a lot of time off-road. The Raptor’s performance is prioritized over fuel efficiency.

Factors like aggressive acceleration, oversized tires, and aftermarket modifications (which are common among Raptor owners) will negatively impact fuel economy.

How it compares

Compared to other high-performance trucks, the Raptor’s fuel economy tells a revealing story. The Ram 1500 TRX, with its supercharged 6.2L Hemi V8, achieves a dismal 12 MPG combined. Even the less powerful but still capable Toyota Tundra TRD Pro with it’s i-FORCE MAX hybrid engine manages only 19 MPG combined. The F150 MPG across all years shows that while some F150 trims offer significantly better mileage, none match the off-road prowess and distinctive style of the Raptor. The lower MPG figures are largely a cost of admission for such a focused performance vehicle, and it will remain an inevitable trade-off for Raptor owners looking to own such an iconic vehicle.

For context, see all Ford fuel economy data overall.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the Raptor isn’t built for fuel efficiency, there are a few things owners can do to eke out slightly better mileage. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The EcoBoost engine delivers plenty of torque at lower RPMs, so there’s rarely a need to bury your foot into the gas pedal. Treat the gas pedal gently, and anticipate traffic flow to minimize unnecessary stops.

Maintain proper tire inflation. The Raptor’s large off-road tires have a significant impact on fuel economy, and ensuring that they are properly inflated will reduce rolling resistance. Check your tire pressure regularly, paying close attention to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI, ideally before going off road.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo in the bed or cab adds weight, which in turn reduces fuel efficiency. Remove any items you don’t need to carry on a regular basis. This could be as simple as removing tools, sporting equipment, and other extraneous items from the truck.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed will help to minimize fuel consumption compared to constantly accelerating and decelerating. This is especially true on flatter stretches of highway where speed variations don’t offer a fuel mileage advantage.

Avoid unnecessary idling. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern vehicles are designed to restart quickly, and it will save you fuel in the long run. This may be a consideration when lining up runs in the desert.