20 MPG combined might not sound like much, but for the 2020 Ram 1500 Classic 2WD with the 3.6L V6, it’s a practical balance. This isn’t a truck designed for hypermilers; it’s a workhorse built for construction crews, small business owners, and anyone who needs a capable, reliable pickup without the frills, or the expense, of the latest technology. It’s a truck bought for its capability and value, and the fuel economy is part of the compromise those buyers accept.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates that the 2020 Ram 1500 Classic 2WD 3.6L gets 17 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The lower city figure reflects the stop-and-go driving that impacts fuel consumption the most. The 25 MPG highway rating is more respectable. You can reach it during steady-state cruising where the efficient eight-speed automatic transmission can hold the engine at its best. However, even this figure is affected a lot by load. Hauling materials, towing a trailer, or even battling a headwind will knock the highway number down noticeably. A lead foot won’t help, either: the 3.6L V6, while adequate, requires a bit of effort to get this truck moving, tempting drivers to push the gas pedal and sacrifice efficiency.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Ram 1500 Classic 2WD 3.6L at $2,200. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using a blend of city and highway driving, and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits and the prevailing fuel prices in your area. For example, someone who predominantly drives in stop-and-go city traffic will likely exceed this estimate, while someone who primarily uses the truck for long highway trips might come in slightly under. This is just an average, based on standardized testing procedures, so factor in your specific usage patterns when budgeting.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful benchmark, real-world fuel economy often differs. Owners of the 2020 Ram 1500 Classic 2WD 3.6L typically report MPG figures that are close to the EPA estimates, but it’s very dependent on driving habits and conditions. Many owners report achieving the advertised 25 MPG on the highway during longer trips, especially when driving unloaded. Expect to see significantly lower numbers when towing or carrying heavy loads, however. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and extreme weather conditions can also negatively impact fuel economy. Owners who want good fuel efficiency tend to drive conservatively, anticipate traffic flow, and maintain their vehicles properly.

How it compares

Compared to other full-size pickups, the 2020 Ram 1500 Classic 2WD 3.6L’s fuel economy is competitive. This is especially true considering its price. The comparable Ford F-150 with its base 3.3L V6 achieves similar numbers, around 19 MPG combined, depending on the configuration. The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with its 4.3L V6 is also in the same range. The newer Ram 1500 trucks with the eTorque system show a slight improvement, but the Classic is a more economical option upfront. Even small MPG advantages add up, and for buyers prioritizing affordability, the Classic’s price and fuel efficiency provide a good compromise. Check all Ram fuel economy data when making comparisons.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Practice smooth acceleration and braking techniques. The 3.6L V6 in the Ram 1500 Classic responds well to gentle inputs. Avoid aggressive acceleration and harsh braking, as these actions consume more fuel than necessary. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed to save fuel.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Correct tire pressure reduces rolling resistance, which improves fuel economy. Check your tires regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the doorjamb sticker. Even a few PSI below the recommended level can hurt fuel efficiency.

Minimize idling. Excessive idling wastes fuel. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern vehicles are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, so there is no need to let the engine run unnecessarily. This is important in city driving, where idling contributes significantly to fuel consumption.

Reduce weight and aerodynamic drag. Remove any unnecessary items from the truck bed or cabin, as extra weight reduces fuel economy. Consider installing a tonneau cover to improve aerodynamics, which can help to reduce drag and improve highway fuel efficiency. Even small changes help.

Stick to regular maintenance. A well-maintained engine operates more efficiently. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule. This includes oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements. These simple maintenance tasks can help to ensure that your Ram 1500 Classic is running at peak efficiency. See 1500 MPG across all years.