2018 Ram 1500 4WD 5.7L: What to Expect From Its 14 MPG

The 2018 Ram 1500 4WD with the 5.7L Hemi V8’s 14 MPG combined fuel economy rating won’t win any awards for less gas. To understand what this number really means, you have to understand who buys this truck, and why. This isn’t a commuter vehicle; it’s a tool for hauling lumber, towing boats, navigating muddy job sites, and projecting a certain image. Fuel efficiency is a consideration, sure, but capability and reliability are important. Drivers who need the Ram 1500’s specific blend of power and utility generally accept the fuel cost as the price of admission. This Hemi-powered Ram is bought for its brawn and its signature burble, and those qualities are more important than Prius-like efficiency for the dedicated Ram buyer.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2018 Ram 1500 4WD 5.7L gets 13 MPG in the city and 18 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go driving, idling, and lower average speeds that all impact fuel consumption. The 18 MPG highway rating suggests that, when cruising at a consistent speed on relatively flat terrain, the Hemi V8 can achieve reasonable efficiency. That said, expect that number to drop when towing or hauling heavy loads, conditions for which the truck was specifically designed.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Ram 1500 4WD 5.7L at $3,750. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 45% of those miles driven in the city and 55% on the highway, using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs can vary significantly depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do, and where you live, fuel prices vary widely by state and local market. The $3,750 figure provides a benchmark, but it’s essential to consider your own usage patterns when estimating your personal fuel expenditures. Be sure to explore all Ram fuel economy data to contextualize this figure.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a standardized yardstick, real-world fuel economy often differs. Some Ram 1500 drivers get numbers lower than the EPA estimates, especially in mixed driving conditions or while using the truck for work. Factors like aggressive acceleration, frequent towing, off-road driving, and even aftermarket modifications (larger tires, lift kits) can all substantially decrease fuel economy. The 6-speed automatic transmission, while durable, pre-dates the 8- and 10-speed automatics found in newer trucks, which can further broaden the gap between EPA estimates and real-world results.

How it compares

In 2018, the Ford F-150 with its 5.0L V8 and 4WD achieved an EPA-estimated 19 MPG combined. The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with its 5.3L V8 and 4WD managed a similar 17 MPG combined. These competitors offer slightly better fuel economy, which may sway buyers who prioritize efficiency. For buyers weighing fuel costs, the extra MPG of the Ford and Chevy translates to hundreds of dollars saved at the pump each year. However, dedicated Ram buyers tend to prioritize the Hemi’s specific power delivery and sound profile, accepting the trade-off in fuel economy. Even within the Ram 1500 lineup, you’ll find variations; research 1500 MPG across all years to understand your options.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Monitor your tire pressure regularly. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel economy. Check the sticker on your driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended pressure, and inflate your tires accordingly. Even a few PSI below the recommended pressure can impact mileage.

Avoid aggressive driving habits. Rapid acceleration and hard braking consume significantly more fuel than smooth, gradual inputs. Anticipate traffic flow and try to maintain a consistent speed whenever possible. A light foot on the accelerator makes a difference.

Minimize idling time. Idling burns fuel without traveling any distance. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. This is especially relevant for truck owners who might be tempted to idle for comfort in extreme weather.

Consider a tonneau cover for the bed. While the impact can vary based on vehicle and driving conditions, some studies suggest that a tonneau cover can improve aerodynamics and slightly increase fuel economy on the highway by reducing drag. This is a relatively low-cost way to try and squeeze out an extra MPG or two.