The 21 MPG combined rating of the 2019 Ram 1500 4WD with the 3.6L V6 isn’t going to win any hypermiling contests, but it represents a reasonable compromise for buyers who need a truck that can haul, tow, and handle challenging terrain. Buyers who value capability and comfort alongside reasonable fuel economy, rather than those who want the absolute greenest option available, primarily purchase this Ram.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2019 Ram 1500 4×4 with the 3.6L V6 are 19 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. This difference reflects the realities of driving a truck with a relatively large engine and a focus on torque. City driving, with its constant stop-and-go, requires more fuel to get the mass of the Ram moving from a standstill. The highway figure, however, demonstrates that when cruising at a consistent speed, the eight-speed automatic transmission and engine calibration can achieve relatively respectable fuel economy for a vehicle of this type.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Ram 1500 4WD 3.6L V6 at $2,100. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the EPA’s estimated combined MPG with national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs could vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you buy, and local fuel prices, but this provides a benchmark for comparison.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA numbers provide a standardized point of comparison, don’t be surprised if your real-world fuel economy differs. Towing heavy loads, frequently using four-wheel drive, aggressive acceleration, and extended idling will all negatively impact your MPG. Gentle acceleration, anticipating traffic flow, and using the Ram’s efficiency-focused driving modes can help you achieve closer to the EPA estimates, potentially even exceeding them on long highway trips.

How it compares

In the full-size truck segment, fuel economy varies significantly. A comparable 2019 Ford F-150 4×4 with the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 achieves an EPA-estimated 20 MPG combined. A Chevrolet Silverado 1500 4×4 with the 4.3L V6 is rated at 17 MPG combined. These differences are significant to buyers who drive a lot of miles, and they help inform whether the Ram’s other strengths outweigh its fuel consumption.

By reviewing all Ram fuel economy data, you can see how this model stacks up. Those intensely focused on MPG might consider a diesel variant of a competing truck (if available), but the added cost and potential maintenance complications often steer buyers back to the V6 Ram. Always consider the 1500 MPG across all years before making a purchase decision.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Ram 1500’s eight-speed automatic transmission is key to its fuel efficiency. Avoid aggressive acceleration, which forces the transmission to downshift and rev the engine higher. Instead, aim for smooth, gradual acceleration to keep the engine in its most efficient operating range.

Tire pressure plays an important role in fuel economy. Make sure your tires are properly inflated to the pressure recommended on the doorjamb sticker. Under-inflated tires create more rolling resistance and reduce fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressures regularly, especially during temperature changes.

The Ram 1500 is equipped with aerodynamic features designed to improve fuel economy. Avoid adding aftermarket accessories like roof racks or oversized mud flaps that disrupt the airflow around the vehicle, as these can negatively impact fuel efficiency. Each of these small considerations helps to raise fuel economy.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine idle for extended periods consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Restarting uses minimal fuel compared to prolonged idling.