I’m debating for my next truck should I go?
F150 with 3.5 turbo with hybrid? Most power, best mpg, but $8000 option
F150 with 3.5 turbo? Meh mpg, enough power
F150 5.0 NA? Meh mpg enough power, v8 sound and long term reliability
I can't comment on the hybrid, but I used to have a 2014 with the 3.5 V6 and currently have a 2020 with the 5.0 V8. We also now have a number of 2021 2.7's in our fleet (only ones we could get). If I was buying for myself (these are company trucks), I'd get the 2.7 for mileage if I didn't need to tow anything substantial. But if you do, the economy will plummet and it'll drink gas like crazy. If I need to tow (and frankly, if you don't, why are you getting a truck?), I'm getting the 3.5. It's now very reliable, and has a good bit more more torque than the V8. The V6 pulls just as hard, doesn't have any noticeable turbo lag issues and is just as responsive as the V8, and mileage is broadly similar.
Mostly unloaded, I'm seeing an average of 13.5 l/100 km with the V8, and that drops to around 10 when driven gently at 100 km/h on the highway (all reported by the computer, haven't measured fill-ups). I was hoping the V8 would have more rumble than the 6, but it's pretty dull sounding. At least the EcoBoost gives you that turbo whine. The V6 I had got similar numbers, though it was the older steel frame body and in BC, where the climbs can destroy your economy.
On the reliability side, the five turbos we bought in 2013 (2014 models) are all still going strong with odometers reading between 200-300,000 kms. No issues with the engine or turbo that I know of. They're all maintained by a Ford dealership as per spec, but definitely not babied and are work trucks.
Overall, the differences are minimal, though. You'd be satisfied with either one, I think. Until you have to pump 120+ litres to fill up...
