Which Ford F-150 engine gets the best gas mileage?
The Ford F-150’s most fuel-efficient option is the 3.5-liter PowerBoost Hybrid V6.
Across the current lineup, mileage depends heavily on drivetrain, cab/bed configuration, towing and payload, wheel size, and overall vehicle usage. This article compares EPA estimates and typical ranges to help you understand how each engine stacks up in real-world driving.
Engine options and EPA mpg estimates
Below is a summary of the main F-150 engines and their typical fuel-economy ranges in common configurations. EPA figures vary by model year, drivetrain, cab/bed, and axle ratio, so treat these as guidance.
- 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid V6 — Approximately 25 mpg combined with 2WD; about 24 mpg combined with 4x4. This is generally the top performer for fuel economy among modern F-150 engines due to hybrid assist and regenerative braking.
- 2.7L EcoBoost V6 — Roughly 22 mpg combined in 2WD; around 21 mpg combined in 4x4. A strong balance of efficiency and output for everyday work use.
- 3.5L EcoBoost V6 — Roughly 21–23 mpg combined in 2WD; about 20–22 mpg combined in 4x4. Good power with competitive efficiency for a turbocharged V6.
- 3.3L Ti-VCT V6 — About 20–21 mpg combined across typical configurations; a solid non-turbo option with reasonable economy.
- 5.0L V8 — Approximately 18 mpg combined in 2WD; around 17–18 mpg combined in 4x4. The traditional V8 sacrifices some efficiency for horsepower and towing capability.
In practice, the PowerBoost Hybrid stands out as the best choice for maximum fuel economy, especially in 2WD configurations used for everyday driving. The non-hybrid EcoBoost engines offer good efficiency with strong performance, while the 5.0L V8 trails the group on mpg unless you need the raw power.
Maximizing fuel economy in your F-150
To get the most miles per gallon from any F-150, consider how you configure and operate the truck. The following practices commonly affect real-world fuel economy:
- Maintain proper tire pressure and alignment to minimize rolling resistance.
- Keep payload and cargo to a minimum when MPG is a priority; weight directly affects efficiency.
- Use the most fuel-efficient configuration that fits your needs, typically 2WD with a lighter cab/bed setup if towing isn’t required.
- Plan trips to reduce stop-and-go driving and excessive idling; use cruise control on highways when appropriate.
- Regular maintenance (air filter, spark plugs, oil, and spark timing) helps sustain optimal efficiency.
While the PowerBoost Hybrid offers the best efficiency, your real-world mpg will align with how you use the truck. If you need maximum torque and towing capacity, you may trade some mpg for performance and payload capability.
Summary
For the best gas mileage among Ford F-150 engines, the 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid V6 leads the field with EPA estimates around 25 mpg combined in 2WD and about 24 mpg in 4x4. The next-best options—2.7L EcoBoost and 3.5L EcoBoost—deliver solid efficiency with varying power outputs, while the 3.3L V6 and 5.0L V8 lag behind in mpg. Real-world fuel economy depends on configuration and driving habits; optimizing tire pressure, reducing weight, and choosing the appropriate drivetrain are key to getting the most miles from your F-150.
