19 MPG combined won’t win any awards, but it’s an acceptable compromise for what the 2019 Ram 1500 Classic 4WD with the 3.6L V6 delivers: a capable, traditionally-styled truck at a price that many find attractive. This isn’t about chasing maximum efficiency; it’s about providing a workhorse for those who value ruggedness and affordability over fuel sipping. These buyers are often contractors, farmers, or homeowners who need a truck for hauling, towing, and tackling tough jobs, and they are willing to trade some fuel economy for the functionality and lower initial cost that the Classic provides.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates provide valuable insights into where the Ram 1500 Classic 4WD 3.6L shines, and where it struggles. The city MPG rating is 16, reflecting the stop-and-go conditions and heavier throttle use that inevitably reduce efficiency. On the highway, however, the 23 MPG rating demonstrates the potential for better economy when maintaining consistent speeds. The eight-speed automatic transmission certainly helps on the open road, allowing the engine to cruise at lower RPMs. In reality, most owners will see numbers slightly different from these, depending on their driving habits and the types of roads they frequent.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Ram 1500 Classic 4WD 3.6L to be $2,300. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. It’s crucial to understand that this is just an estimate; your actual fuel costs could be significantly higher or lower depending on your driving style, the price of gasoline in your area, and how much you actually drive. If you frequently tow heavy loads or spend a lot of time idling, expect to exceed this figure. For a closer look at this model year and its full range of trims, check out the 1500 MPG across all years.

Real-world expectations

If your real-world MPG differs from the EPA estimates, don’t be surprised. Factors like tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and the weight of cargo can all impact fuel economy. Aggressive acceleration and hard braking will also take a toll. Those regularly using the 4WD system will also notice a decrease in fuel efficiency, as more energy is required to power all four wheels. The key is to drive deliberately and anticipate traffic conditions to minimize unnecessary acceleration and braking.

How it compares

The Ram 1500 Classic 4WD with the 3.6L V6 is in a competitive segment. When considering fuel economy, comparisons to other trucks are inevitable. A similarly-equipped 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with four-wheel drive and the 4.3L V6 engine typically returns around 17 MPG combined. The Ford F-150, another popular choice, can achieve slightly better numbers with its 2.7L EcoBoost V6, often approaching 20 MPG combined in 4×4 configuration. However, comparing trims and configurations is essential, as the V8 engines from all manufacturers will drastically reduce fuel economy. Ultimately, buyers choose the Ram 1500 Classic for its combination of capability, price, and classic design, accepting slightly lower fuel economy as a trade-off.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Keep your tires properly inflated. This is a fundamental aspect of fuel efficiency often overlooked. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure, which is typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel.

Avoid unnecessary idling. The 3.6L V6 consumes fuel even when the vehicle is stationary. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, making this a simple way to conserve fuel, particularly in city driving.

Drive smoothly and anticipate traffic. The Ram 1500 Classic is not designed for jackrabbit starts. Avoid sudden acceleration and hard braking. Maintain a steady speed and anticipate traffic flow to minimize unnecessary braking and acceleration, which can drastically reduce fuel economy. A smooth driving style translates directly into fewer trips to the gas station.

Minimize weight and aerodynamic drag. Excess weight in the bed or cab of the truck puts extra strain on the engine, reducing fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from the vehicle, and be mindful of aerodynamic drag. Removing roof racks or cargo carriers when not in use can improve the truck’s efficiency, especially at highway speeds. For more on the Ram lineup, including information on newer models, check all Ram fuel economy data.