What year F-150 has the best gas mileage?
The best overall gas mileage is found in the PowerBoost Hybrid version, starting with the 2021 model year, which delivers mid-20s mpg combined. If you’re sticking to gasoline engines only, the 2.7L EcoBoost is typically the most efficient option in recent years.
How fuel economy is measured and what it means for the F-150
Fuel economy for the Ford F-150 is reported by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and varies with drivetrain (2WD vs 4WD), bed length, tires, and payload. The hybrid powertrain can push overall efficiency higher than any gasoline-only option, but real-world mileage also depends on how you use the truck—towing, carrying cargo, and highway cruising all influence mpg.
Fuel economy by powertrain and model year
The following overview highlights the major F-150 powertrains and the typical mpg you can expect, noting that numbers vary by model year and configuration.
- PowerBoost Hybrid (3.5L V6 hybrid) — Introduced for 2021, this is the best overall mpg option among F-150s, with mpg in the mid-20s combined (slightly higher or lower depending on 2WD vs 4WD and other spec choices).
- 2.7L EcoBoost (gasoline) — The most efficient gasoline option in recent years, generally delivering low-to-mid 20s mpg combined depending on drivetrain and bed/tire choices.
- 3.5L EcoBoost (gasoline) — A strong performer but typically falls in the low 20s mpg combined, depending on configuration and use (towing, payload, tires).
- 3.0L Power Stroke Diesel — Often the best highway mpg among F-150 options, with mpg commonly in the mid-20s to upper-20s combined, depending on drivetrain and gearing.
- 5.0L V8 — The least efficient among the mainstream gas engines in many model years, usually in the high-teens to low-20s mpg combined, varying with tires and payload.
Concluding note: In practical terms, the PowerBoost Hybrid stands out for overall efficiency, while the 2.7L EcoBoost remains the top choice for a non-hybrid gasoline setup.
Maximizing fuel economy in an F-150
Beyond engine choice, several factors influence real-world mpg. The following steps outline practical ways to squeeze more efficiency from your F-150.
- Choose the PowerBoost Hybrid if you want the best overall mpg and can tolerate a higher upfront price and battery considerations.
- If you prefer a gasoline-only engine, opt for the 2.7L EcoBoost and prioritize a 2WD drivetrain, proper tire setup, and lighter-than-tow usage when possible.
- Keep payload and towing within reasonable limits for your setup; heavy loads reduce mpg, especially with larger engines.
- Maintain tires at the recommended pressure, use efficient driving habits (steady speeds, gradual acceleration, and cruise control on highways), and plan routes to minimize stops and starts.
Concluding guidance: Your best mileage will come from pairing the right engine with careful driving and proper maintenance, with the hybrid offering the strongest overall advantage for daily fuel economy.
Bottom line
For the best gas mileage in an F-150, aim for a PowerBoost Hybrid (2021 model year and later) as the top choice. If you must stick with a gasoline-only engine, the 2.7L EcoBoost is the most efficient option in recent years. Always verify EPA ratings for the exact year, trim, drivetrain, and bed configuration you’re considering, as those details can shift mpg by several miles per gallon.
Summary
The Ford F-150’s best fuel economy comes from the PowerBoost Hybrid introduced in 2021, offering the highest mpg overall. For non-hybrid gasoline powertrains, the 2.7L EcoBoost tends to be the most efficient. Real-world mileage depends on drivetrain, payload, towing, and driving habits, so consult the EPA ratings for your specific configuration and year to compare accurately.
