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. This refresh brought updated styling, enhanced technology, and a continuation of the diverse powertrain options that defined the F-150’s appeal. Among these, the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission emerged as a popular choice, offering a balance of capability, efficiency, and affordability. Production of this specific configuration ran from 2018 through October 2020, primarily targeting buyers seeking a versatile truck without the higher price tag of the larger engine options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | F-Series F-150 |
| Generation | F-Series F-150 XIII Regular Cab (facelift 2018) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.7 V6 (325 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | October, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 3 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.8 l/100 km (19.9 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) |
| 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 | 1495 l (52.8 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.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 218-224 mm (8.58 – 8.82 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| 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 | 245/70 R17; 265/60 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 17; 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this F-150 variant is Ford’s 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, internally designated as the third-generation “EcoBoost.” 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, combined with variable valve timing, optimizes combustion efficiency and power delivery. The engine produces 325 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 400 lb-ft of torque at 3000 rpm, making it a capable performer for everyday tasks and moderate towing. Paired with this engine is Ford’s 10-speed automatic transmission, a sophisticated unit designed to maximize 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 offers a noticeably different driving experience compared to the larger 3.5L EcoBoost or the 5.0L V8. While lacking the outright acceleration of its more powerful siblings, the 2.7L provides ample power for daily driving and typical hauling duties. The 10-speed automatic transmission plays a crucial role in keeping the engine in its sweet spot, delivering smooth and efficient power delivery. The gear ratios are well-matched to the engine’s torque curve, providing good responsiveness in various driving situations. Compared to a manual transmission equipped F-150, the automatic offers greater convenience, particularly in stop-and-go traffic. However, some drivers may prefer the more direct control offered by a manual gearbox. The relatively lighter weight of the 2.7L engine compared to the V8 also contributes to slightly improved handling and ride quality.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.7L EcoBoost engine was available across a range of F-150 trim levels, including XL, XLT, Lariat, and King Ranch. The base XL trim offered a more utilitarian experience, with standard features like air conditioning, a basic infotainment system, and steel wheels. The XLT trim added features such as alloy wheels, a more advanced infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and power windows and locks. Higher trims like Lariat and King Ranch offered premium features such as leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, a premium sound system, and advanced driver-assistance technologies. Optional extras included a tow package, off-road packages, and various appearance upgrades.
Chassis & Braking
The 2018 F-150, regardless of engine choice, utilized a high-strength steel frame and an aluminum alloy body, contributing to its impressive strength and reduced weight. The front suspension featured independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employed leaf springs. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power for most applications. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard equipment. The specific suspension tuning and brake components were generally consistent across the F-150 lineup, with minor variations depending on trim level and optional packages. The rear leaf spring setup, while traditional, was optimized for load-carrying capacity and durability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.7L EcoBoost F-150 received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its blend of power, efficiency, and refinement. Fuel economy figures averaged around 22 mpg combined, making it one of the more fuel-efficient full-size pickup trucks on the market. Compared to the 3.5L EcoBoost, the 2.7L offered a lower price point and slightly better fuel economy, but with less overall power. Compared to the 5.0L V8, the 2.7L provided comparable torque but less horsepower. Reliability reports have been generally favorable, with the 2.7L EcoBoost engine proving to be a durable and dependable powertrain.
Legacy
The 2.7L EcoBoost engine has become a mainstay in the Ford F-150 lineup, and the 2018-2020 iteration paired with the 10-speed automatic transmission continues to be a popular choice in the used car market. Its combination of capability, efficiency, and affordability makes it an attractive option for buyers seeking a versatile and reliable pickup truck. The powertrain has proven to be relatively trouble-free, with routine maintenance being the key to long-term reliability. As a result, well-maintained examples of this F-150 variant command reasonable resale values and remain a practical choice for a wide range of buyers.
