24 MPG combined in the 2021 Ram Promaster City isn’t going to win any awards, but it’s an acceptable figure for what it is: a compact cargo van designed for small business owners, delivery services, and tradespeople who need a reliable, relatively inexpensive workhorse. This isn’t a vehicle purchased for leisurely Sunday drives; it’s bought to haul tools, equipment, packages, or whatever else keeps a business running. The fuel economy simply needs to be good enough to not be a burden.

City and highway performance

The Promaster City’s EPA ratings break down to 21 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go driving that many Promaster City owners encounter daily, navigating urban environments with frequent deliveries or service calls. The 28 MPG highway rating is achievable when cruising at a steady speed, but a loaded van and a heavy right foot will quickly diminish this number. The 2.4L 4-cylinder engine produces adequate power, and the 9-speed automatic transmission helps keep the engine in its optimal rev range for both efficiency and performance. Expect adequate acceleration; the powertrain is well-suited for the van’s intended purpose.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2021 Ram Promaster City is $1,800. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Of course, your actual fuel costs will vary depending on how much you drive, the type of driving you do, and fuel prices in your area. If you log significantly more than 15,000 miles annually, or if fuel prices are higher in your region, expect to spend more. Conversely, if you drive less and fuel prices are lower, your annual fuel cost will be less than $1,800. This figure provides a useful benchmark to compare against other vehicles and to budget for your transportation expenses.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a guideline, real-world fuel economy in the Promaster City will depend heavily on several factors. Load weight is a significant contributor; a fully-loaded van will see a noticeable drop in MPG compared to an empty one. Driving style also plays a critical role. Aggressive acceleration and frequent hard braking will quickly diminish fuel economy. Finally, driving conditions, such as hilly terrain or strong headwinds, can also impact fuel consumption.

How it compares

The Ford Transit Connect, a direct competitor to the Promaster City, offers slightly better fuel economy. The Transit Connect, with its 2.0L 4-cylinder, achieves a combined 26 MPG, with 24 MPG city and 29 MPG highway. However, some buyers prefer the Promaster City’s slightly larger cargo capacity and different driving dynamics. Another competitor, the Nissan NV200, offers fuel economy figures similar to the Promaster City, at 24 MPG combined. Remember that all Ram fuel economy data can be found here at FuelEconomyHub.com. Ultimately, the decision comes down to a trade-off between fuel efficiency, cargo capacity, price, and personal preferences. Compare the PROMASTER MPG across all years to get a better understanding of the lifetime cost of ownership.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Regular maintenance is critical for optimal fuel economy. Ensure that your Promaster City’s tires are properly inflated, as underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce MPG. Stick to the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule for oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements, as these items directly impact engine efficiency.

Driving habits have an important impact on fuel economy. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking, and maintain a steady speed whenever possible. Anticipate traffic flow and avoid unnecessary idling, as this wastes fuel. Use cruise control on the highway to maintain a consistent speed and improve fuel efficiency.

Minimize the weight you carry in your Promaster City. Excess cargo weight reduces fuel economy, so only carry what you need. If you regularly haul heavy loads, consider upgrading to a larger van or using a trailer for occasional heavy items.

Plan your routes efficiently to minimize mileage and avoid congested areas. Use GPS navigation to find the shortest and most direct routes, and consider off-peak travel times to avoid traffic jams. Combining multiple errands into a single trip can also save fuel.

Be aware of external factors such as weather. Strong headwinds can significantly reduce fuel economy, so adjust your speed accordingly. In cold weather, allow your engine to warm up for a few minutes before driving, as this helps improve engine efficiency.