20 MPG combined isn’t going to win any fuel economy awards, but for the 2021 Ram 1500 Classic 2WD with the 3.6L V6, it’s a perfectly acceptable number. This truck isn’t about squeezing every last mile out of a gallon; it’s about getting the job done reliably and affordably. It’s a workhorse, a tool, often purchased by contractors, small business owners, or individuals who need a truck bed and towing capability without the bells and whistles, or the higher price tag, of the latest Ram 1500 models. These buyers prioritize capability and value over outright fuel efficiency, and the 1500 Classic delivers on that promise. You can view all Ram fuel economy data to compare models.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2021 Ram 1500 Classic 2WD 3.6L are 17 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The city MPG reflects the stop-and-go conditions and lower average speeds that typically impact fuel consumption. The 25 MPG highway rating, achieved under more consistent speeds, indicates the V6 engine is reasonably efficient when cruising. This spread between city and highway MPG highlights the engine’s performance characteristics; it’s adequate for urban environments but excels more on longer, open-road drives.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for this specific configuration of the 2021 Ram 1500 Classic at $2,200. This figure is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 45% of those miles driven in the city and 55% on the highway, using national average fuel prices at the time of the calculation. Remember that your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, fuel prices in your area, and the specific type of driving you do. Drivers who frequently tow or haul heavy loads will undoubtedly see their fuel costs exceed this estimate.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a baseline, it’s critical to understand that real-world fuel economy often differs. Driving style matters; aggressive acceleration and hard braking will negatively impact fuel consumption. The weight you’re carrying in the bed or towing behind the truck will have a noticeable effect. Owners who maintain their vehicles properly, ensuring correct tire pressures and regular servicing, are more likely to achieve figures closer to the EPA estimates.

How it compares

Compared to other full-size trucks, the 2021 Ram 1500 Classic 2WD 3.6L engine offers competitive fuel economy. A similarly equipped Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with the 4.3L V6 might see similar MPG numbers, around 17 city and 24 highway. The Ford F-150, even with its smaller displacement turbocharged engines in some trims, can struggle to match the highway MPG of the Ram when towing. The 1500 MPG across all years shows that the Classic’s numbers are reliable and have remained nearly consistent for this configuration. Ultimately, the Ram 1500 Classic’s efficiency is good enough for its target buyer who values practicality and a lower initial cost.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Driving at a steady speed on the highway is one of the easiest ways to improve your fuel economy. Avoid sudden acceleration and braking, and try to maintain a consistent speed. This will help the engine operate more efficiently and reduce fuel consumption, particularly during long trips where the Classic’s 25 MPG highway rating can make a real difference.

Tire pressure is important for fuel efficiency. Ensure your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure listed on the doorjamb sticker. Under-inflated tires create more rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Regularly checking and maintaining proper tire pressure is a simple way to improve MPG.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the truck bed. Hauling around items you don’t need adds extra weight, which directly impacts fuel efficiency. Clean out the bed regularly and only carry the items you need for the task at hand. This is especially important for contractors who might be tempted to leave tools and equipment in the truck overnight.

Proper vehicle maintenance is essential for optimal fuel economy. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug inspections all contribute to a smoothly running engine. A well-maintained engine operates more efficiently and burns fuel more cleanly, leading to improved MPG and reduced emissions.

Consider using cruise control on long, flat stretches of highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, minimizing variations in throttle input that can waste fuel. However, be sure to disengage cruise control when driving in hilly terrain or areas with fluctuating traffic conditions, as it may not always make the best decisions for fuel efficiency in those situations.