The 2019 Ram 1500 Classic 2WD with the 5.7L Hemi V8 gets 17 MPG combined. While this number isn’t impressive, many Ram buyers accept it. This truck isn’t for those focused on lower fuel costs. It’s a work truck often bought by contractors, tradespeople, and those who value capability and a proven powertrain more than saving money at the pump. They’re buying a tool, and the most effective tools aren’t always the most fuel-efficient.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2019 Ram 1500 Classic 2WD 5.7L at 15 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go driving, where the Hemi uses the most fuel. Expect to fill up more often if you drive in the city. The highway number, while better, still lags behind many modern trucks and SUVs. Reaching 22 MPG requires a light foot and consistent speeds, which isn’t always possible when hauling materials. This truck works best with patient driving but doesn’t respond well to aggressive driving.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost at $3,100 for the 2019 Ram 1500 Classic 2WD 5.7L. This assumes 15,000 miles per year, a mix of city and highway driving, and national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs could be higher or lower depending on your driving habits, routes, and gas prices. If you often tow heavy loads, expect that $3,100 to increase. It’s a significant cost to consider.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standard, real-world fuel economy often differs. Many owners report slightly lower numbers, especially in the city or when hauling and towing. Terrain matters; driving in hills or mountains hurts fuel efficiency. Properly maintaining the vehicle and inflating tires to the correct pressure can help you get closer to the EPA estimates. Remember, the heavier your foot, the more you’ll spend on gas.

How it compares

The 2019 Ram 1500 Classic 2WD 5.7L has lower fuel economy compared to other full-size trucks. A newer Ford F-150 with the 2.7L EcoBoost engine can achieve around 20 MPG combined. The GMC Sierra 1500 with its 5.3L V8 can sometimes get one or two more MPG. The Chevy Silverado with a similar V8 also does slightly better than the Ram with an EPA combined of 18. The Classic’s target buyer, the cost-conscious contractor or small business owner, values its established reputation, lower price, and readily available parts. These buyers often care less about squeezing every last mile from a gallon and focus more on reliability and overall value. They might also be interested in 1500 MPG across all years, or even all Ram fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 2019 Ram 1500 Classic 2WD 5.7L isn’t fuel efficient, but you can still minimize trips to the gas station. First, avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. The Hemi V8 is responsive but uses more fuel when pushed hard. Gentle inputs will make a difference.

Regularly check your tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. See the sticker on your driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended tire pressure.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine run wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine, especially during colder weather.

Avoid carrying extra weight in the truck bed. Extra weight increases the engine’s workload and decreases fuel efficiency. Remove unnecessary tools or materials. Clean out the bed to save on gas.