24 MPG combined won’t win any awards, but for the 2017 Ram Promaster City 2.4L 4-cyl, it’s a respectable figure. This isn’t a Prius competitor. It’s a compact cargo van designed for small business owners, tradespeople, and delivery drivers who prioritize functionality and cargo space over fuel savings. These buyers are less concerned with squeezing every last mile from a gallon and more focused on the overall cost of doing business, including insurance, maintenance, and payload capacity. The Promaster City provides a good blend of these factors.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates suggest 21 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The difference reflects the typical use of this vehicle. In urban environments, stop-and-go traffic and frequent short trips reduce fuel efficiency. The highway figure, while not spectacular, is adequate for longer deliveries or commutes to job sites outside of town. The nine-speed automatic transmission allows the engine to operate in its most efficient range at varying speeds, which is key to achieving these numbers. Without a modern transmission like this, the fuel economy would suffer considerably.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Ram Promaster City at $1,800. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that your actual fuel costs will change depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do, and the price of gasoline in your area. Drivers who frequently haul heavy loads or spend most of their time in congested city conditions can expect to exceed this number, while those who primarily use the Promaster City for lighter tasks and more open roads may see lower annual expenses. Fuel prices can vary significantly from state to state and even city to city, so tailor your budget accordingly.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful benchmark, real-world fuel economy can be different. Payload, driving style, and ambient temperatures all play a role. Owners report that achieving the advertised 28 MPG on the highway is possible with a light load and careful driving, but pushing the Promaster City to its maximum cargo capacity will decrease fuel efficiency. Aggressive acceleration and braking will also negatively impact your MPG. The 2.4L 4-cylinder engine, while adequately powered, requires a moderate driving style to maintain good fuel economy. Many owners find the combined figure of 24 MPG to be reasonably accurate in their daily use.

How it compares

To truly appreciate the Promaster City’s fuel economy, consider its competitors. The Ford Transit Connect, another popular compact cargo van, achieves a similar EPA combined rating, around 24-25 MPG depending on the model year and engine configuration. The Nissan NV200 lags behind, typically averaging around 24 MPG combined. These comparisons highlight that the Promaster City is competitive within its class, especially when considering its cargo capacity and overall utility. For those seeking more detailed information, explore all Ram fuel economy data to compare the entire lineup. Also, be sure to check PROMASTER MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key. The 2.4L engine responds well to a light foot, so avoid aggressive starts and sudden bursts of speed. Gradual acceleration not only saves fuel and reduces wear and tear on the drivetrain.

Pay close attention to traffic flow and anticipate stops to minimize unnecessary braking.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consuming more fuel. Regularly check your tire pressure and ensure it is within the recommended range, which is typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door or in the owner’s manual. Even a slight difference in tire pressure can affect fuel economy.

Reduce unnecessary weight. The Promaster City is designed to haul cargo, but carrying around extra weight when empty is wasteful. Remove any unnecessary tools, equipment, or personal items from the van to lighten the load and improve fuel efficiency. Every pound counts when it comes to fuel consumption.

Plan your routes efficiently. Combine multiple errands into a single trip to minimize cold starts and reduce overall driving time. Use navigation apps to find the most direct and least congested routes. Avoiding traffic jams and unnecessary detours can significantly improve your fuel economy.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which can improve fuel efficiency on long stretches of open road. However, be mindful of hills and traffic conditions, as cruise control may not be the most efficient option in all situations. Be prepared to disengage it when necessary to maintain control and safety.