While 20 MPG combined won’t lead the fuel economy charts, for the 2024 Ram 1500 Classic 2WD with the 3.6L V6, it’s an acceptable number. This is a work truck that focuses on capability and value. It’s designed for contractors, small business owners, and anyone needing a reliable workhorse without the high price of newer, more fuel-efficient trucks. This configuration is a practical choice, and the gas mileage shows that.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2024 Ram 1500 Classic 2WD 3.6L V6 gets 17 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The city number reflects the realities of stop-and-go traffic and the natural inefficiencies of a large vehicle in urban areas. The 25 MPG highway rating is more achievable on longer trips, especially when driving to save fuel. The eight-speed automatic transmission helps get better gas mileage at highway speeds, keeping the engine in its most efficient range.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for this Ram 1500 Classic at $2,200. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price during testing. Your actual fuel costs will change depending on how many miles you drive and local fuel prices. However, the $2,200 estimate is a good baseline compared to other trucks and vehicles. Fuel prices can change a lot, so watching local fuel costs gives a more personalized estimate.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a standard measurement, but real-world fuel economy depends on driving habits, load, and terrain. The 20 MPG combined number will likely drop if you regularly haul heavy loads or drive in mountains. Fast acceleration and high speeds hurt fuel economy, too. However, careful driving, like watching traffic, keeping a steady speed, and limiting idling, can help you get close to the EPA estimates, or even do better. For comparisons, see all Ram fuel economy data.

How it compares

The Ram 1500 Classic with the 3.6L V6 isn’t the most fuel-efficient full-size truck when compared to newer models. For example, the Ford F-150 with the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 can get about 22 MPG combined in 2WD. The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with the 2.7L Turbo engine gets around 20-21 MPG combined. Though, these newer trucks typically cost more. To view older statistics, check out 1500 MPG across all years. The Classic is a cheaper alternative, and its fuel economy is a fair compromise for those wanting affordability. A Ram 1500 with the eTorque system might get slightly better gas mileage, but it will be at a higher cost.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Keep your tires properly inflated. Tire pressure affects rolling resistance, and the right pressure can improve fuel economy. Check your tire pressure often, especially when the temperature changes, since pressure fluctuates.

Limit idling. The 3.6L V6 burns fuel even when stopped. If you’ll be stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Restarting uses very little fuel and you’ll save more than staying on.

Drive gently, and avoid fast acceleration or braking. The Ram 1500 Classic is a work truck, not a sports car. Avoid sudden stops when you can. Smooth driving improves fuel efficiency.

Avoid carrying extra weight. Extra cargo makes the engine work harder, which lowers fuel economy. Remove any tools or equipment you don’t need from the truck bed. Regularly clean it out to get better gas mileage.

Use cruise control on the highway when you can. Cruise control on long stretches helps keep a steady speed, preventing speed changes and saving gas. It can also make driving easier since you don’t have to focus as much on speed.