What is the average MPG for a Ford F250 7.3 gas?
The Ford F-250 fitted with the 7.3-liter gas V8 typically records around the low-to-mid teens in combined driving, with 2WD models usually edging higher than 4x4 variants. Real-world mileage varies widely based on towing, payload, and driving style.
Engine and efficiency profile
The 7.3-liter V8 in the Ford F-250 Super Duty is built for power and durability, not fuel economy. It delivers strong torque for towing and heavy-duty work, which comes with a trade-off in fuel efficiency. For model years in circulation around 2020–2024, drivers generally report combined mileage in the mid-teens when not towing, with lower numbers under heavy load or during brisk highway driving.
EPA estimates and real-world performance
EPA estimates vary by drivetrain and configuration. Here are typical ranges by configuration based on recent model years.
Two-wheel drive (2WD)
When not towing, 2WD versions tend to record the higher end of the F-250’s mpg spectrum.
- City: 11–12 mpg
- Highway: 16–18 mpg
- Combined: 13–15 mpg
In practical daily use, many owners report mixed driving figures in the range of roughly 12–14 mpg, with lower numbers when towing or carrying heavy loads.
Four-wheel drive (4x4)
4x4 configurations incur extra drivetrain drag and weight, typically reducing overall efficiency a notch or two.
- City: 11–12 mpg
- Highway: 15–17 mpg
- Combined: 12–14 mpg
Owners hauling gear or towing may see even lower figures, especially on challenging terrain or at higher speeds.
What factors affect MPG
Several variables influence fuel economy in a Ford F-250 with the 7.3L engine. The heavier the workload, the more fuel is burned, and several conditions can push mpg up or down.
- Payload and towing weight
- Drivetrain and axle gearing (2WD vs 4x4)
- Tire type, size, and proper inflation
- Aerodynamics and how much is carried in the bed or hitch
- Driving style, speed, and trip duration
- Terrain and altitude
- Vehicle maintenance (air filters, spark plugs, oil, alignment)
Keeping tires properly inflated, reducing unnecessary payload, and adopting smoother driving patterns can yield modest gains, especially on highway trips.
Tips that may help maximize efficiency
While the F-250 7.3L is not optimized for mileage, some practices can help you get the most from it without compromising safety or capability.
- Regular maintenance and timely replacement of air filters and spark plugs
- Maintain proper tire pressure and alignment
- Avoid excessive idling and use gradual acceleration
- Plan routes to minimize stop-and-go traffic and reduce towing weight where possible
Real-world results will still vary based on how the truck is used—towing, hauling, and terrain remain the biggest mpg-dampening factors.
Summary
The Ford F-250’s 7.3L gas engine prioritizes capability over fuel economy. In typical use, expect roughly 13–15 mpg combined for 2WD models and about 12–14 mpg for 4x4 variants, with towing or heavy payloads lowering those figures further. Individual mileage will depend on configuration, load, and driving conditions.
