Which 2018 Ford F-150 Engine Is the Best?

Then again, Dog’em has driven every single kind of 2018 Ford F-150. Several times over.

“Since retirement almost a year ago I now have a part time gig delivering vehicles for the local Ford dealer. I’ve driven just about all configurations and trim levels of the 2017 & 2018 Ford F-150. Granted, they are all new trucks with no miles. But the trips are usually 300 miles or less so one gets a good feel for how they stack up. Nothing scientific, just the ol’ seat of the pants dyno.

This dealership doesn’t sell many 5.0 models but the ones I have driven are pretty predictable. Nice V8 sound with plenty of pep and average mpg for a big truck. The 5.0 is tried and true and if you are into modding the engine it would be your best bet.

The 3.5 Eco, especially for 2018, is pretty impressive both in power and mpg compared to the old 5.4 or even previous versions of the Eco.The new ten speed is not really noticeable until driving in stop and go traffic. For some reason it seems to shift hard at times in the lower gears. Not sure what the national figures are. But just talking to the guys in the shop they have had little or no issues with the 2017 3.5 Ecos. For pulling a trailer or hauling this would be my choice, even though the 5.0 is about as capable.”

“I’ve only driven two of the 2.7s. If I was to only use as a highway truck not pulling anything this would be my choice.A little sluggish compared to the other two in city traffic. But when you need to get on the freeway it definitely gets with the program. 300 miles at interstate speed and it really outperformed the other two in the mpg department. 

Each powerplant has their own following and this is just my opinion as someone who has had the chance to put a fair amount of windshield time in each. I love my ’05, even with the crappy 5.4. But the more I drive these new ones it may be time to trade.”

And this is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to excellent advice. If you’re in the market for a 2018 Ford F-150, be sure and check out all the great opinions in this thread. And if you’ve got your own opinion to share, by all means, chime in!

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Brett Foote

Brett Foote has been covering the automotive industry for over five years and is a longtime contributor to Internet Brands’ Auto Group sites, including Chevrolet Forum, Rennlist, and Ford Truck Enthusiasts, among other popular sites.

He has been an automotive enthusiast since the day he came into this world and rode home from the hospital in a first-gen Mustang, and he's been wrenching on them nearly as long.

In addition to his expertise writing about cars, trucks, motorcycles, and every other type of automobile, Brett had spent several years running parts for local auto dealerships.

You can follow along with his builds and various automotive shenanigans on Instagram: @bfoote.