The Ford F-150, a cornerstone of the American automotive landscape, entered its thirteenth generation with the 2015 model year. This generation marked a significant shift in construction, utilizing a high-strength, military-grade aluminum alloy body sitting atop a fully-boxed steel frame. Among the various engine and drivetrain configurations offered, the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and four-wheel drive represented a compelling blend of capability and efficiency. Produced from 2015 to 2017 in the Regular Cab configuration, this variant occupied a middle ground in the F-150 lineup, appealing to buyers seeking a capable work truck with improved fuel economy compared to the larger displacement engines.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | F-Series F-150 |
| Generation | F-Series F-150 XIII Regular Cab |
| Type (Engine) | 2.7 V6 (325 Hp) 4×4 Automatic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 3 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.7 l/100 km (20.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 325 Hp @ 5750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 121 Hp/l |
| Torque | 508 Nm @ 3000 rpm (374.68 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 2687 cm3 (163.97 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| 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 | 15.5 l (16.38 US qt | 13.64 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2000-2048 kg (4409.25 – 4515.07 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1495 l (52.8 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2200 l (77.69 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 87 l (22.98 US gal | 19.14 UK gal) |
| Length | 5316-5789 mm (209.29 – 227.91 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 | 1953 mm (76.89 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3109-3584 mm (122.4 – 141.1 in.) |
| Front track | 1717 mm (67.6 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1717 mm (67.6 in.) |
| Front overhang | 960 mm (37.8 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1247 mm (49.09 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 239 mm (9.41 in.) |
| Approach angle | 24.8-25.7° |
| Departure angle | 26.8-27.1° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 22.1-24.7° |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| 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 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this F-150 variant is the 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6, internally designated as the third-generation engine. This engine utilizes a compact graphite iron cylinder block and aluminum cylinder heads. The key to its performance is a twin-turbocharger setup, employing low-inertia turbines for quick spool-up and minimal turbo lag. Direct fuel injection, operating at pressures up to 2,000 psi, ensures precise fuel delivery and efficient combustion. The engine produces 325 horsepower at 5750 rpm and 400 lb-ft of torque at 3000 rpm. The six-speed automatic transmission, a Ford-developed unit, is specifically tuned to handle the engine’s torque output and provide smooth, responsive shifts. The transmission features a wide gear ratio spread, optimizing both acceleration and fuel efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.7L EcoBoost F-150 offered a noticeably different driving experience compared to the traditional V8 options. While lacking the raw, low-end grunt of a 5.0L or 6.2L engine, the 2.7L delivered a more refined and responsive feel. The twin-turbochargers provided a broad torque curve, making it capable for towing and hauling, though not to the same extent as the larger engines. The automatic transmission generally shifted smoothly, and the 4×4 system provided confident traction in various conditions. Fuel economy was a significant advantage, with combined EPA ratings around 20 mpg, a substantial improvement over the V8 models. However, some drivers noted a slight delay in throttle response during initial acceleration, a characteristic of turbocharged engines.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.7L EcoBoost engine was available on several F-150 trim levels, including the XL, XLT, and Lariat. The base XL trim offered a functional, no-frills interior with vinyl upholstery and basic features. The XLT added features like alloy wheels, a more comprehensive infotainment system, and upgraded interior trim. The Lariat trim elevated the experience with leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a premium sound system. Standard equipment across most trims included air conditioning, power windows and locks, and a rearview camera. Optional extras included a trailer tow package, navigation system, and various driver-assistance technologies.
Chassis & Braking
The F-150’s fully-boxed steel frame provided a robust foundation for the 2.7L variant. The front suspension utilized an independent double-wishbone design, while the rear suspension employed a traditional leaf spring setup. This configuration balanced ride comfort with load-carrying capacity. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at all four corners, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard. The 2.7L models typically featured a slightly softer suspension tuning compared to the heavier-duty trims, prioritizing ride comfort over ultimate towing capacity.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.7L EcoBoost F-150 received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, refined driving experience, and strong torque output. However, some reviewers noted that it didn’t offer the same level of outright power as the larger V8 engines. Compared to the 3.5L EcoBoost V6, the 2.7L offered a more affordable entry point into the EcoBoost family, but with a noticeable reduction in horsepower and torque. Against the 5.0L V8, the 2.7L traded some power for significantly improved fuel economy. The 2.7L appealed to buyers who prioritized efficiency and everyday usability over maximum towing capacity.
Legacy
The 2.7L EcoBoost engine has proven to be a reliable and durable powertrain in the F-150. While early iterations experienced some minor issues with oil leaks and timing chain tensioners, these were largely addressed through running changes and updates. Today, well-maintained 2.7L EcoBoost F-150s from this generation command reasonable prices in the used car market. The engine’s combination of power, efficiency, and reliability has made it a popular choice among truck buyers, and it continues to be offered in the current generation F-150, albeit with further refinements and improvements.
