The Ford F-150, consistently the best-selling full-size pickup truck in the United States, 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 on a fully-boxed steel frame – a first for a mass-produced pickup. Within this generation, the 2.7L V6 engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission represented a compelling option for buyers seeking a balance of power, efficiency, and capability. Production of this specific configuration ran from 2015 to 2017, positioned as a mid-range offering within the extensive F-150 lineup.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | F-Series F-150 |
| Generation | F-Series F-150 XIII Regular Cab |
| Type (Engine) | 2.7 V6 (325 Hp) 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) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.8 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.7 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 | 1877-1919 kg (4138.08 – 4230.67 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 | 1908-1918 mm (75.12 – 75.51 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) | 218-224 mm (8.58 – 8.82 in.) |
| Approach angle | 24.1-24.8° |
| Departure angle | 24.6-24.7° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 19.3-22.1° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| 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 | 245/70 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this F-150 variant is the 2.7L EcoBoost V6, internally designated as the third-generation engine. This engine utilizes a compact 60-degree V-configuration, featuring twin turbochargers and direct fuel injection. The twin-turbo setup, with electronically controlled wastegates, provides a broad torque curve and minimizes turbo lag. The direct injection system precisely meters fuel into the combustion chambers, enhancing efficiency and power output. The engine’s aluminum block and cylinder heads contribute to weight reduction. The six-speed automatic transmission, a Ford-developed unit, was specifically tuned to complement the engine’s characteristics. It features a wide gear ratio spread, optimizing both acceleration and fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.7L EcoBoost V6 with the six-speed automatic delivered a noticeably different driving experience compared to the larger displacement engines offered in the F-150 lineup, such as the 3.5L EcoBoost or the 5.0L V8. While lacking the outright brute force of those engines, the 2.7L provided ample power for everyday tasks and towing moderate loads. The turbochargers provide a strong mid-range punch, making it responsive in typical driving situations. The automatic transmission shifts smoothly and efficiently, although it may occasionally hunt for the right gear during quick acceleration. Compared to the manual transmission options, the automatic prioritizes convenience and ease of use, making it a popular choice for commuters and those who frequently tow.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.7L EcoBoost engine was available across several F-150 trim levels, including the XL, XLT, and Lariat. The base XL trim offered a functional and affordable option, typically featuring vinyl upholstery, basic audio systems, and manual climate control. The XLT trim added more comfort and convenience features, such as cloth upholstery, power windows and locks, and an upgraded audio system. The Lariat trim represented a more premium offering, with leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and advanced infotainment systems. Optional extras included a trailer tow package, a technology package with features like lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control, and various appearance packages.
Chassis & Braking
The F-150’s fully-boxed steel frame provided a solid foundation for the 2.7L variant. The front suspension utilized a double-wishbone design with coil springs, while the rear suspension employed a 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 equipment. The 2.7L F-150 typically featured a stabilizer bar in the front suspension 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 fuel efficiency, smooth power delivery, and overall refinement. Compared to the V8 options, the 2.7L offered comparable performance in many real-world scenarios while achieving significantly better fuel economy. However, some critics noted that it lacked the towing capacity of the larger engines. In terms of reliability, the 2.7L EcoBoost engine has proven to be relatively robust, although some owners have reported issues with the turbochargers and fuel injectors.
Legacy
The 2.7L EcoBoost engine has become a mainstay in the Ford F-150 lineup, continuously evolving with improvements in technology and efficiency. The 2015-2017 iteration established the engine’s reputation as a capable and fuel-efficient option for truck buyers. On the used car market, these models represent a good value proposition, offering a blend of capability, comfort, and affordability. The powertrain’s overall reliability has contributed to its continued popularity, making it a sought-after choice among used truck shoppers.
