EPA Fuel Economy: 18 MPG Combined

The 2024 RAM 3500 6.7L Diesel Crew Cab delivers an EPA-estimated combined fuel economy of 18 miles per gallon, making it a competitive option in the heavy-duty diesel truck segment. This combined rating reflects a balance between the vehicle’s city performance of 16 MPG and its highway efficiency of 21 MPG. For a truck in this class—designed for towing, hauling, and work-site demands—the 18 MPG combined rating represents solid fuel efficiency that translates to real savings at the pump over the vehicle’s ownership lifespan.

The 6.7L diesel engine paired with the 6-speed automatic transmission is engineered to optimize fuel consumption across varying driving conditions. Diesel fuel’s inherent energy density provides better fuel economy compared to gasoline engines of similar displacement, which is one reason many truck buyers select diesel variants for their long-term operating costs. The RAM 3500’s diesel platform combines modern fuel injection technology, efficient combustion processes, and transmission optimization to achieve these EPA estimates while maintaining the power and torque expected from a heavy-duty work truck.

City vs Highway Performance

The EPA fuel economy ratings for the 2024 RAM 3500 Crew Cab show distinct performance differences between driving environments. In city driving, you can expect 16 MPG as you navigate stop-and-go traffic, acceleration events, and lower-speed operation. Highway driving is where the diesel engine shines, delivering 21 MPG on sustained open-road conditions. This 5 MPG difference reflects the inherent efficiency advantage of highway driving—less braking, more consistent throttle input, and optimized engine operating ranges.

For owners who primarily drive on highways or interstates, the 21 MPG rating represents the upper potential of this vehicle’s efficiency. Conversely, those with significant city driving should plan around the 16 MPG city figure. Most owners experience the 18 MPG combined rating as their realistic average when factoring in their typical driving mix of both city and highway miles.

Annual Fuel Cost

Understanding your annual fuel costs helps with ownership budgeting. Using EPA estimates and standard driving assumptions, here’s the calculation for the 2024 RAM 3500 6.7L Diesel Crew Cab:

Annual Fuel Cost Calculation:

Annual mileage: 15,000 miles
Combined MPG: 18
Diesel fuel price: $3.50 per gallon

Gallons needed annually: 15,000 miles ÷ 18 MPG = 833 gallons
Annual fuel cost: 833 gallons × $3.50 = $2,916 per year

This calculation assumes average diesel pricing of $3.50 per gallon and typical annual mileage of 15,000 miles. Actual costs will vary based on current fuel prices in your region, your specific driving patterns, and driving habits. Owners who drive more highway miles may see slightly lower annual fuel costs, while those with predominantly city driving may experience higher costs.

Real-World MPG Expectations

EPA estimates provide a standardized baseline, but real-world fuel economy depends on multiple factors. Most 2024 RAM 3500 6.7L Diesel Crew Cab owners report fuel economy ranging from 16 to 22 MPG depending on their driving conditions, driving style, and cargo loads. Highway cruising at steady speeds typically yields results closer to the 21 MPG rating, while heavy city traffic and frequent acceleration reduce efficiency toward the 16 MPG mark.

To maximize your fuel economy: maintain proper tire pressure (underinflated tires increase rolling resistance), avoid excessive idling, accelerate smoothly rather than aggressively, and keep up with scheduled maintenance including oil changes and fuel filter replacements. The diesel engine responds well to consistent speeds on highways, so cruise control can help maintain optimal efficiency on long drives. Additionally, excessive payload and towing loads will decrease fuel economy below EPA estimates, so monitor your cargo weight carefully.

How It Compares

Comparing the 2024 RAM 3500’s 18 MPG combined rating to other heavy-duty diesel trucks: the 2024 Ford F-350 6.7L diesel achieves approximately 17-18 MPG combined, while the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 6.6L diesel delivers around 16-17 MPG combined. The RAM 3500’s 18 MPG combined rating positions it competitively within the heavy-duty diesel segment, offering comparable or slightly better efficiency than direct competitors while maintaining the payload and towing capacity expected in this class.

Tips to Maximize Efficiency

• Monitor tire pressure: Keep tires inflated to the manufacturer’s specifications to reduce rolling resistance and improve fuel economy by up to 3%.
• Use premium diesel fuel: Quality diesel with appropriate detergents improves combustion efficiency and engine performance, potentially improving MPG.
• Minimize payload weight: Every 100 pounds of extra cargo reduces fuel economy, so remove unnecessary items from your truck.
• Plan efficient routes: Avoid congested areas and excessive idling by planning trips during lighter traffic periods.
• Schedule regular maintenance: Clean fuel filters, properly functioning fuel injectors, and well-maintained engines perform more efficiently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will the 2024 RAM 3500 6.7L Diesel achieve 21 MPG in everyday driving?
A: The 21 MPG rating is the EPA highway estimate achieved under specific test conditions. Real-world highway driving may yield 19-21 MPG depending on terrain, speed, and driving habits. City and mixed driving typically produces lower figures closer to the 16-18 MPG range.

Q: How does towing affect fuel economy?
A: Towing significantly reduces fuel economy. Expect to lose 20-30% of your base MPG when towing a heavy load. A truck achieving 18 MPG unloaded might see 12-14 MPG while towing, depending on the trailer weight and road conditions.

Q: Is diesel fuel more expensive than gasoline?
A: Diesel prices fluctuate with crude oil markets and can be higher or lower than gasoline depending on timing and location. However, the superior fuel economy of diesel engines often offsets higher per-gallon costs over the vehicle’s lifetime.

The 2024 RAM 3500 6.7L Diesel Crew Cab delivers practical fuel economy for a heavy-duty truck, combining efficiency with the capability and performance truck owners demand. Whether you prioritize towing capacity, payload, or long-term operating costs, understanding these EPA fuel economy ratings helps you plan your ownership experience effectively.