The 2022 Ram 1500 Classic 2WD with the 3.6L V6 gets 20 MPG combined, which places it squarely in “work truck” territory. Its efficiency reflects its no-frills mission. It’s a tool designed to haul, tow, and generally handle the rigors of daily work without breaking the bank. Understanding its mileage is core to its appeal.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 17 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway for the 2022 Ram 1500 Classic 2WD with the 3.6L V6 and eight-speed automatic transmission. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go driving and inherent inefficiencies of urban environments, while the highway number shows what’s possible when you maintain a steady speed. Buyers should consider how much of their driving is city versus highway to get a realistic sense of what their fuel costs will be. If you are primarily doing short trips around town, expect fuel consumption to be noticeably above the combined 20 MPG rating.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,200 for this specific configuration of the Ram 1500 Classic. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a set percentage allocated to city and highway driving, using the national average fuel prices. It’s important to remember that this is just an estimate. Your personal fuel costs will vary depending on your driving style, the actual price of gasoline in your area, and the amount of time spent idling.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy often differs. Owners who prioritize fuel efficiency and drive conservatively may see numbers closer to the EPA’s highway estimate, or even slightly above. Those who frequently tow, haul heavy loads, or drive aggressively will likely see lower numbers. Terrain also plays a role; drivers in hilly areas can expect lower MPG than those on flat ground. The type of tires installed and their inflation also have a measurable impact on fuel consumption, as does the mechanical condition of the vehicle itself. Ignoring maintenance such as oil changes and tire rotations can cumulatively reduce fuel economy over time.

How it compares

Compared to other full-size trucks, the 2022 Ram 1500 Classic 2WD 3.6L V6 occupies a specific niche. A newer Ram 1500 with the eTorque 3.6L V6 achieves a slightly better EPA rating of 22 MPG combined. Ford’s F-150 with the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 boasts nearly identical fuel economy numbers, while the Chevrolet Silverado with the 2.7L turbo offers even better range close to 23 MPG combined. But the Ram 1500 Classic is often a more affordable option, and its slightly lower fuel economy is seen as an acceptable trade-off by buyers who prioritize upfront cost savings and proven reliability over outright efficiency. For these buyers, the focus is on value and dependability, and the Classic delivers that.

Consider 1500 MPG across all years and weigh your options, focusing on your specific needs and priorities.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. The 3.6L V6 is responsive enough for daily driving without needing to aggressively apply the throttle. Smooth, gradual acceleration will significantly reduce fuel consumption. Anticipate traffic flow to minimize unnecessary braking.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the doorjamb sticker. Just a few pounds of underinflation can have a noticeable impact over time.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra weight in the bed of the truck or in the cab puts additional strain on the engine, which increases fuel consumption. Remove any items that aren’t needed, such as tools, equipment, or other gear that can easily add hundreds of pounds.

Service the vehicle regularly. A well-maintained engine is a more efficient engine. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacement. These seemingly small tasks can add up to significant fuel savings over time.

Minimize idling. Excessive idling wastes fuel and contributes to emissions. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern engines have a short restart cycle, so the fuel used restarting is minimal compared to the fuel wasted while idling. Do your homework and view all Ram fuel economy data to get prepared to own a fuel efficient model Ram.