17 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards for lower fuel costs, but for the 2021 Ram 1500 Classic 4WD with the 5.7L V8, it’s what you get with its capability and old-school truck charm. This isn’t a truck for hypermilers; it’s a workhorse, built for those who prioritize towing capacity, payload, and the rumble of a Hemi over squeezing every last mile from a gallon of gas.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Ram 1500 Classic 4WD at 15 MPG in the city and 21 MPG on the highway. In urban environments, the stop-and-go driving and the weight of this truck work against those numbers. The 5.7L V8, while powerful, needs fuel to keep things moving. Out on the open road, the eight-speed automatic transmission helps the engine settle into a more efficient cruising speed, allowing for that 21 MPG rating. Remember, factors like speed, wind resistance, and cargo weight will dramatically alter your highway fuel consumption.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2021 Ram 1500 Classic 4WD 5.7L V8 is $3,100. This figure is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway, using national average fuel prices. Fuel costs fluctuate, and your personal driving habits may significantly impact your actual expenses. Someone who uses this truck primarily for short-distance hauling or frequent towing will likely exceed that $3,100 figure.

Real-world expectations

Most owners of this configuration of the Ram 1500 Classic aren’t expecting Prius-like fuel economy. They’re buying it for its proven reliability, its powerful engine, and its affordability compared to newer trucks. Expect to see numbers close to the EPA estimates if you drive conservatively, but don’t be surprised if you’re routinely in the low teens around town, especially if you have a heavy foot or tend to haul heavy loads. The 5.7L Hemi is responsive and eager, which can easily lead to enthusiastic acceleration, and a corresponding dip in fuel economy. Always check all Ram fuel economy data to consider other efficiency options available.

How it compares

Compared to its rivals, the 2021 Ram 1500 Classic 4WD 5.7L V8 sits roughly in the middle of the pack when it comes to fuel economy. The comparable Ford F-150 with the 5.0L V8 and 4WD achieves MPG numbers around 16 MPG combined. A Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with the 5.3L V8 and 4WD offers a nearly identical fuel economy rating, hovering around 17 MPG combined. However, choosing a Ram 1500 equipped with the 3.6L V6 eTorque mild-hybrid system allows you to see a higher fuel economy return. For the vehicle buyer, fuel efficient options like the 1500 MPG across all years doesn’t outweigh the Classic’s dependable nature. As the saying goes: there’s a Ram for every job.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Tire pressure is important. Maintaining proper tire inflation reduces rolling resistance, which translates to better fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly, and inflate your tires to the recommended pressure listed on the sticker inside your driver’s side door. Overinflating is never a good idea; it can wear your tires unevenly and is an unsafe driving condition.

Avoid aggressive driving. Rapid acceleration and hard braking consume fuel. Embrace a smoother, more gradual driving style. Anticipate traffic flow, and try to maintain a consistent speed whenever possible. The Hemi is fun to deploy but it will impact the bottom line to use it.

Lighten the load. Excess weight puts a strain on the engine and reduces fuel efficiency. Remove any unnecessary items from the truck bed or cab. A clean truck bed not only looks better but can save money at the pump over time!

Consider your towing needs carefully. If you don’t need the full towing capacity of the 5.7L V8, consider a smaller engine or a different vehicle altogether. The Hemi is too much for light-duty tasks, and its fuel consumption reflects that. Only pull when necessary to keep your MPG afloat.