The Ford F-150, consistently the best-selling full-size pickup truck in the United States, underwent a significant facelift for the 2018 model year, representing the thirteenth generation of the iconic series. Among the various engine and configuration options offered, the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 paired with a ten-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive emerged as a popular choice, balancing capability with improved fuel efficiency. This particular configuration was produced from 2018 through October 2020, and was typically positioned as a mid-range offering within the extensive F-150 lineup, appealing to buyers seeking a versatile truck without the higher price tag of the larger displacement engines.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | F-Series F-150 |
| Generation | F-Series F-150 XIII SuperCab (facelift 2018) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.7 V6 (325 Hp) 4×4 Automatic |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | October, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 5-6 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 325 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Torque | 542 Nm @ 2750 rpm (399.76 lb.-ft. @ 2750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 2689 cm3 (164.09 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-Turbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 14.3 l (15.11 US qt | 12.58 UK qt) |
| Trunk (boot) space (minimum) | 1764 l (62.3 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 87 l (22.98 US gal | 19.14 UK gal) |
| Length | 5890-6363 mm (231.89 – 250.51 in.) |
| Width | 2029 mm (79.88 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 2121 mm (83.5 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2459 mm (96.81 in.) |
| Height | 1956-1961 mm (77.01 – 77.2 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3683-4158 mm (145 – 163.7 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 236-239 mm (9.29 – 9.41 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 10 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 265/70 R17; 275/65 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 17; 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this F-150 variant is the 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, internally designated as the third-generation “EcoBoost” engine. This engine utilizes a compact graphite iron cylinder block and aluminum cylinder heads. The key feature is its twin-turbocharger setup, employing low-inertia turbochargers to minimize turbo lag and provide a broad torque curve. Direct fuel injection is employed, optimizing combustion efficiency and power output. The engine produces 325 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 400 lb-ft of torque at 3000 rpm. Paired with this engine is Ford’s 10-speed automatic transmission (10R80), a sophisticated unit designed to maximize fuel efficiency and provide smooth, responsive shifting. This transmission features a wide gear ratio spread, allowing the engine to operate in its optimal power band more frequently.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.7L EcoBoost F-150 delivers a noticeably different driving experience compared to the larger 3.5L EcoBoost or the 5.0L V8. While not offering the outright acceleration of its more powerful siblings, the 2.7L provides ample power for everyday driving and towing. The ten-speed transmission plays a crucial role in keeping the engine in its sweet spot, providing quick downshifts for passing maneuvers and maintaining efficient cruising speeds. The 4×4 system provides confident traction in various conditions, making it a capable work truck and weekend adventurer. Compared to manual transmission equipped F-150s, the automatic offers a more relaxed driving experience, particularly in stop-and-go traffic. However, some drivers may prefer the greater control offered by a manual gearbox.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.7L EcoBoost engine was available across several F-150 trim levels, including XL, XLT, Lariat, and King Ranch. Standard equipment on the base XL trim typically included air conditioning, a basic infotainment system, and steel wheels. Higher trims like the Lariat added features such as leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium sound system, and advanced driver-assistance technologies like blind-spot monitoring and lane-keeping assist. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, a trailer tow package, and various appearance packages. The SuperCab configuration offered a second row of seating, increasing passenger capacity, while the SuperCrew provided a more spacious rear seat.
Chassis & Braking
The 2018 F-150 utilizes a fully boxed frame constructed from high-strength steel, contributing to its impressive strength and rigidity. Front suspension consists of an independent coil-over-shock setup, while the rear utilizes a leaf spring configuration. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The suspension tuning is geared towards providing a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics, even when carrying a load. Stabilizer bars are included to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.7L EcoBoost F-150 received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its combination of power, fuel efficiency, and capability. Compared to the 3.5L EcoBoost, the 2.7L offered better fuel economy, although with slightly less overall power. Against the 5.0L V8, the 2.7L provided comparable torque but lacked the V8’s distinctive sound and feel. The 2.7L was often seen as a sweet spot in the F-150 lineup, offering a compelling balance of performance and practicality. Fuel economy figures averaged around 21 mpg combined, making it a more economical choice for those who didn’t require the maximum towing or hauling capacity.
Legacy
The 2.7L EcoBoost engine has proven to be a reliable and durable powertrain. While early EcoBoost engines experienced some teething issues, the third-generation 2.7L has demonstrated a strong track record for longevity. On the used car market, F-150s equipped with this engine and transmission combination hold their value well, due to their reputation for reliability and fuel efficiency. The 10-speed automatic transmission has also proven to be a robust unit, contributing to the overall dependability of this powertrain. The 2.7L EcoBoost continues to be offered in the F-150 today, albeit with ongoing refinements and improvements, solidifying its place as a popular and respected engine option.
