The 2016 Ram 1500 HFE 2WD 3.0L 6-cyl gets 24 MPG combined, making it a surprisingly fuel-efficient full-size truck. This is impressive for a vehicle capable of hauling and towing. This HFE (“High Fuel Efficiency”) model isn’t a typical gas-guzzling contractor’s workhorse. It’s for the ranch owner who racks up highway miles, the small business owner needing truck utility without crippling fuel costs, or the weekend warrior prioritizing longer trips with fewer gas station stops.

City and highway performance

The HFE’s EPA estimates break down to 21 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. The city figure is respectable for a truck of this size and weight, but the highway number is the highlight. The 29 MPG rating means this Ram 1500, when driven efficiently on long stretches of open road, can rival some mid-size SUVs in fuel economy. The 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine, paired with the smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission, helps achieve those highway savings, allowing the engine to cruise at lower RPMs and minimize fuel consumption.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Ram 1500 HFE to be $2,300. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the specific conditions in which you operate the truck. Heavier loads, frequent towing, and aggressive driving will negatively impact fuel economy and increase your annual spending at the pump. The $2,300 figure represents a significant potential savings compared to the competition.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates provide a baseline, but real-world fuel economy often differs. Expect slightly lower figures in everyday driving, especially in stop-and-go traffic or when carrying heavy loads. Many owners report achieving close to the EPA highway number on long trips, but city MPG can change considerably depending on driving style and traffic conditions. Tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and even the type of fuel used can influence your actual MPG. Owners who pay attention to these factors are more likely to get the most out of the HFE’s fuel efficiency.

How it compares

The 2016 Ram 1500 HFE stands out against its contemporaries. A similarly-equipped 2016 Ford F-150 with the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 engine is rated at 22 MPG combined, making the Ram a noticeable step up. The EcoDiesel manages significantly better mileage than the gasoline V6 and V8 options in the non-HFE versions of the 2016 Ram 1500. A comparable Chevy Silverado 1500 with its 5.3L V8 can struggle to achieve even 20 MPG combined, further highlighting the 1500 HFE’s efficiency. Buyers who understand the long-term effects of fuel costs will appreciate the economy offered by the HFE. You can explore all Ram fuel economy data on FuelEconomyHub.com and compare the HFE to 1500 MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Maintaining proper tire pressure is important for maximizing fuel economy. Ensure your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure, typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb or in the owner’s manual. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which can significantly reduce fuel efficiency, especially on a heavy vehicle like the Ram 1500.

Avoid aggressive driving habits such as rapid acceleration and hard braking. The EcoDiesel engine delivers ample torque at low RPMs, so there’s no need to floor the accelerator to get up to speed. Smooth, consistent driving improves fuel economy and reduces wear and tear on your vehicle.

Minimize idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, it’s generally more fuel-efficient to turn off the engine. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance, and it can significantly impact your overall MPG, particularly in city driving.

When hauling or towing, be mindful of the added weight and adjust your driving accordingly. Towing significantly reduces fuel economy, so plan your trips carefully, avoid unnecessary routes, and maintain a steady speed. Use the tow/haul mode on the transmission, which optimizes shift points for towing but may slightly reduce fuel efficiency.