20 MPG combined isn’t going to win any fuel-sipping awards, but for the 2024 Ram 1500 2WD with its strong 5.7L V8, it’s a compromise most buyers are willing to make. This is a half-ton truck capable of serious towing, hauling, and tackling tough jobs. Let’s be honest, nobody buys this Ram thinking it’ll rival a Prius at the pump. They buy it for the Hemi’s rumble, the payload capacity, and the undeniably bold presence this truck commands.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 18 MPG in the city for this specific Ram 1500 configuration, a figure reflecting the stop-and-go nature of urban driving. The 5.7L V8, even with its cylinder deactivation technology, requires a fair amount of fuel to get moving from a standstill. On the open highway, the rating climbs to 23 MPG. That improvement is thanks to the 8-speed automatic transmission, which allows the engine to cruise at lower RPMs, and the relative consistency of highway speeds. However, keep in mind that these figures are achieved under ideal conditions. Heavy loads, aggressive driving, or strong headwinds will significantly impact fuel efficiency.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2024 Ram 1500 2WD 5.7L V8 at $2,600. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. It’s a good benchmark for understanding the financial commitment involved with owning this truck, but it’s critical to remember that your individual fuel costs will vary depending on your personal driving habits, the price of gasoline in your area, and how you use the truck. For example, a contractor primarily doing local jobs with frequent stops will likely exceed that $2,600 estimate. Someone who mostly uses the truck for occasional long highway trips might come in under it.

Real-world expectations

Official MPG figures are useful for comparison, but real-world fuel economy often differs. Ram 1500 owners often report numbers slightly below the EPA’s estimates, especially in mixed driving conditions or when towing. Expect to realistically average closer to 17-19 MPG in daily use. Factors such as tire pressure, ambient temperature, and the overall condition of the vehicle can influence the fuel economy experienced. Remember that “your mileage may vary” isn’t just a disclaimer; it’s a reality.

How it compares

The 20 MPG combined rating for the Ram 1500 with the 5.7L V8 puts it squarely in the middle of the pack against its competitors. The Ford F-150 2WD with the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 achieves around 22 MPG combined, making it a slightly more fuel-efficient option if power isn’t the top priority. A Chevy Silverado 1500 2WD with the 5.3L V8 often lands around 19 MPG combined. These subtle differences matter to buyers who carefully calculate long-term running costs. For those who need even more capability, the Ram 1500 TRX, with its supercharged 6.2L V8, shows all Ram fuel economy data hovering significantly lower, around 12 MPG combined, highlighting the trade-off between performance and fuel consumption. Don’t forget to check the 1500 MPG across all years for the Ram 1500 to understand prior years fuel performance.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While this Ram isn’t designed for hypermiling, there are steps you can take to improve its fuel economy. Regularly check and maintain proper tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel.

Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. The 5.7L Hemi V8 loves to be unleashed, but gentle throttle inputs will conserve fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible to minimize unnecessary fuel burn.

Minimize idling time. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, it’s generally more efficient to turn off the engine. Modern starters are designed to handle frequent starts without undue wear.

When towing, use the tow/haul mode. While it might seem counterintuitive, tow/haul mode optimizes the transmission’s shift schedule for hauling heavy loads. This helps prevent excessive strain on the engine and transmission, actually improving fuel economy in those specific conditions.

Keep the truck’s bed clean and aerodynamic. Remove any unnecessary weight from the bed and consider using a tonneau cover to improve air flow over the vehicle. Reducing weight and improving aerodynamics can have a noticeable impact on fuel efficiency, especially at highway speeds.