19 MPG combined is what drivers get with the reliable 2021 Ram 1500 4WD with its potent 5.7L V8. This isn’t Prius territory, and nobody buying this truck expects it to be. This figure represents a trade-off: V8 power, substantial towing capacity, and the undeniable presence of a full-size, four-wheel-drive pickup, all come at a cost. The buyers of this specific Ram 1500 aren’t prioritizing fuel sipping; they need to haul, tow, and navigate challenging terrain, accepting that a smaller fuel bill isn’t in the cards.

City and highway performance

The EPA breaks down the 19 MPG combined rating into 17 MPG for city driving and 22 MPG on the highway. The city number reflects the inevitable fuel consumption of stop-and-go traffic, idling at lights, and the extra effort required to move this truck’s considerable heft from a standstill. The highway figure, while better, is still tempered by the aerodynamic realities of a large, brick-shaped vehicle pushing air at 70 mph. The eight-speed automatic transmission tries to optimize fuel usage, but even with its best efforts, the 5.7L V8 needs to work to maintain highway speeds, particularly when encountering inclines or headwinds.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2021 Ram 1500 4WD 5.7L V8 is $2,750. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Your actual costs will vary depending on how many miles you drive, the type of driving you do (more city miles will increase costs), and the ever-fluctuating price of gasoline in your region. This figure provides a standardized way to compare the fuel expenses of different vehicles, giving potential Ram 1500 owners a benchmark against which to evaluate their own budgets and driving habits.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a useful baseline, expect real-world fuel economy to vary. Towing significantly impacts fuel efficiency, often dropping mileage well below the EPA estimates. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and using four-wheel drive mode will also negatively affect fuel consumption. Cold weather can also reduce MPG. Conversely, consistent highway driving at moderate speeds, combined with gentle acceleration and braking, can potentially nudge the fuel economy closer to the EPA’s highway rating, though rarely exceeding it by a significant margin. Drivers who frequently tow or live in areas with hilly terrain should realistically anticipate spending more than the EPA’s $2,750 estimate.

How it compares

The 2021 Ram 1500 4WD 5.7L’s fuel economy is what you should expect for a full-size, V8-powered truck. A comparable 2021 Ford F-150 with the 5.0L V8 and four-wheel drive achieves roughly the same combined MPG, around 19 MPG. The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with the 5.3L V8 and four-wheel drive also hovers in this same ballpark, with an EPA combined rating around 18 MPG. Those seeking better fuel economy in a full-size truck might consider the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel, which can achieve significantly better MPG, albeit with a different engine character and potentially higher upfront cost. These comparisons are crucial for buyers weighing the pros and cons of V8 power against the realities of fuel costs, and deciding where best to allocate their budget, across all all Ram fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

One of the easiest fuel-saving measures is to ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb. A few minutes of maintenance can translate into tangible savings.

Avoid aggressive driving habits such as rapid acceleration and hard braking. The Ram 1500 is a heavy vehicle, and sudden bursts of speed and abrupt stops consume a disproportionate amount of fuel. Smooth, gradual acceleration and anticipating traffic flow can help you maintain momentum and reduce fuel consumption. Drive like you have a full bed of eggs back there, and your wallet will thank you.

Reduce the amount of weight you carry in the truck. Unnecessary cargo adds extra load to the engine, increasing fuel consumption. Remove any items from the bed or cab that you don’t need on a regular basis. A lighter truck is a more efficient truck, and small changes in weight can add up over time, especially if you consult 1500 MPG across all years.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine run while stationary consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, and idling can waste a surprising amount of fuel, especially during colder weather.