12 MPG combined, that’s the fuel economy to expect from the 2024 Ram 1500 TRX. It’s the reality of owning this supercharged, off-road-dominating truck. TRX buyers prioritize power, presence, and capability and accept the consequences of a 6.2L supercharged V8.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates are 10 MPG in the city and 14 MPG on the highway, which accurately reflect the TRX’s fuel consumption. The city MPG suffers from the truck’s weight and inefficiency when starting and stopping. The highway number increases slightly, but maintaining speed requires significant power. The supercharger is always ready to provide a boost, and it’s tempting to use it often. This truck is built for performance, not maximizing fuel economy.

Annual fuel cost

Expect an estimated annual fuel cost of $4,800. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using national average fuel prices, according to the EPA. The actual cost depends on your driving habits and location. Frequent off-roading, heavy towing, or aggressive driving will increase this number. Consider $4,800 a baseline, but be prepared to spend more.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides standardized testing, but real-world fuel economy with the TRX often falls below those estimates. Tire pressure, driving style, and terrain all play a role. Expect single-digit MPG figures if you frequently use Baja mode or rock crawl. Matching the EPA’s 10 MPG around town is possible with effort, but exploiting the engine’s potential is always tempting.

How it compares

The TRX’s fuel economy is predictably low compared to other high-performance trucks. The Ford F-150 Raptor R, with its supercharged 5.2L V8, offers similar performance and returns roughly the same fuel economy in EPA testing at 12 MPG combined. A standard Ford F-150 Raptor with the 3.5L Ecoboost V6 gets a much better 16 MPG combined. Regular full-size trucks with smaller engines are far more efficient, like the Ram 1500 with the 5.7L Hemi achieving around 20 MPG combined. However, these comparisons are likely irrelevant to TRX buyers, as they’re comparing horsepower, suspension travel, and ground clearance instead of fuel efficiency.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Accept that efficiency is relative in a TRX. Maximize every mile per gallon by starting with tire pressure. Keeping the correct tire pressure, as shown on the doorjamb sticker, reduces rolling resistance and increases fuel economy. Also, use the appropriate grade of fuel and use a quality fuel. The TRX is designed for premium gasoline, and using it ensures optimal engine performance and efficiency.

Avoid excessive idling which this engine dislikes. The supercharger is always ‘on’ as far as the engine knows and this contributes to wasted fuel.

Anticipate traffic and drive smoothly. Avoid sudden acceleration and hard braking. The TRX is heavy and has powerful brakes, so use them carefully. Accelerate gradually and coast when possible to minimize fuel consumption.

Consider the drive mode. The TRX has drive modes, including “Normal” mode. This can slightly improve fuel economy by optimizing throttle response and shift patterns for everyday driving, though it won’t turn the truck into a Prius. Use off-road modes, Baja modes, and mud modes only when you need them.

Finally, resist the urge to constantly use the supercharged V8’s full power. The intoxicating exhaust and acceleration are addictive but significantly increase fuel consumption. Save aggressive driving for when necessary.