24 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards for lower fuel costs, but for the 2016 Ram Promaster City equipped with its 2.4L four-cylinder, it’s a figure many small business owners and delivery drivers find perfectly acceptable. This is, after all, a compact cargo van designed for utility, not Prius-like efficiency. The trade is simple: practical cargo capacity and maneuverability in urban environments in exchange for fuel economy that’s adequate, if not outstanding.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2016 Ram Promaster City at 21 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The lower city figure reflects the stop-and-go driving conditions and heavier loads that are common in urban delivery routes. The higher highway number is achievable when the van is driven at steady speeds on relatively flat terrain. Note that these numbers are achievable in relatively mild weather. Both figures can drop noticeably when fully loaded, driving in hilly terrain, or in extreme hot or cold weather which requires more energy for climate control. The nine-speed automatic transmission helps optimize engine efficiency across a wide range of speeds, contributing to both the city and highway figures.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Ram Promaster City at $1,800 per year. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Of course, the actual amount you spend on fuel will depend on your driving habits, the type of driving you do (city vs. highway), and the price of gasoline in your area. Aggressive driving, frequent idling, and carrying heavy loads will all increase your fuel consumption and thus, your expenses. Those who drive fewer than 15,000 miles annually will spend less. It’s a helpful benchmark, but should be viewed as an estimate.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a guideline, real-world fuel economy often differs. Owners of the 2016 Ram Promaster City frequently report figures that are close to the EPA estimates, but this is highly dependent on driving style and usage. Those who prioritize fuel efficiency and drive conservatively can often achieve numbers near or slightly above the EPA averages. Drivers who regularly carry heavy loads or engage in aggressive driving may see their fuel economy drop below the stated figures. Regular maintenance, including tire inflation and oil changes, also plays a critical role in maintaining optimal fuel efficiency. Owners should consult fuelly.com to see a range of owner data for this particular model.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the 2016 Ram Promaster City delivers competitive, but not class-leading, fuel economy. The Ford Transit Connect, for example, also equipped with a four-cylinder engine, achieves similar EPA ratings. The Nissan NV200, a slightly smaller and less powerful van, typically offers slightly better MPG figures, a difference that matters to businesses closely tracking operating costs. The Mercedes-Benz Metris, priced higher and offering more power, often mirrors the PROMASTER MPG across all years, with both rated a bit less efficient due to its larger engine and higher payload capacity. The choice often depends on the specific needs of the business, with some prioritizing cargo capacity and power over fuel efficiency. Explore all Ram fuel economy data to compare models.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Given the Promaster City’s intended purpose, maximizing fuel efficiency requires a conscious effort. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking whenever possible. Smooth, gradual changes in speed help minimize fuel consumption. The nine-speed automatic transmission is designed to keep the engine in its most efficient operating range, so let it do its job by avoiding excessive throttle inputs.

Proper tire inflation is critical for fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and maintain it at the recommended level, which can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which translates to higher fuel consumption. A simple tire pressure gauge can save a surprising amount of fuel over the long term.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Every extra pound adds to the engine’s workload, decreasing fuel efficiency. Remove any tools, equipment, or materials that are not essential for the current trip. Think of the Promaster City as a mobile office; just as you keep your desk tidy to improve workflow, keeping your cargo area organized and free of unneeded items will benefit fuel economy.

Plan your routes strategically. Avoid congested areas and peak traffic times whenever possible to minimize idling and stop-and-go driving. Using a GPS navigation system can help you find the most efficient route, even if it’s not the shortest in terms of distance. Some vehicles are equipped with “eco” routing features that take traffic and road conditions into account to optimize fuel efficiency.

Schedule regular maintenance. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, which includes oil changes, air filter replacement, and spark plug replacement. Addressing minor issues promptly can prevent them from escalating into major problems that negatively impact fuel economy.