21 MPG combined is impressive for a full-size pickup truck. That mileage is the key reason the 2015 Ram 1500 HFE 2WD with the 3.6L V6 exists. It’s not for contractors needing maximum towing capacity, or off-road drivers needing four-wheel drive. This truck is for those who occasionally need a bed and a roomy cab but prioritize fuel efficiency. Think real estate agents hauling signs, or weekend DIYers making regular runs to the home improvement store. They want a truck, but they don’t want to pay a fortune at the pump.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2015 Ram 1500 HFE at 18 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The highway figure is a direct result of the aerodynamic tweaks, low rolling resistance tires, and the smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission. This transmission allows the engine to stay in its optimal RPM range, maximizing fuel efficiency on long drives. The V6 engine is adequate for most daily tasks. While it won’t win any drag races, it provides sufficient power for merging onto the highway and hauling lighter loads. It’s a well-balanced powertrain that prioritizes efficiency without sacrificing capability.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2015 Ram 1500 HFE is $2,100. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using the national average fuel price for regular gasoline when the testing was performed. Individual fuel costs can fluctuate with gas prices and driving habits, and this $2,100 figure provides a solid baseline for comparing the HFE to other vehicles in terms of fuel expenses. It’s a selling point for buyers who are budget-conscious and trying to minimize their ownership costs, but remember, this figure can change dramatically with fluctuations to the national average fuel prices.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates provide a useful comparison tool, but real-world MPG can vary depending on driving habits, road conditions, and the weather. Many owners of the 2015 Ram 1500 HFE report fuel economy that is close to the EPA figures, especially on the highway. Aggressive driving, frequent stop-and-go traffic, and hauling heavy loads negatively impact fuel efficiency. Maintaining proper tire inflation, performing regular maintenance, and driving with a light foot can help maximize MPG and keep your fuel costs down. Remember that the HFE is rear-wheel drive, and inclement weather or road condition change your MPG numbers considerably.

How it compares

The 2015 Ram 1500 HFE’s fuel economy stacks up favorably to its competitors, though not without a few asterisks. The 2015 Ford F-150 with the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 is rated at 19 MPG combined. However, this engine option wasn’t available in lower trim levels at the time. The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 equipped with the 4.3L V6 achieved around 20 MPG combined. Considering all Ram fuel economy data, the difference between the HFE and other trim levels offers considerable savings for the buyer.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 8-speed automatic transmission helps the HFE’s fuel efficiency. Avoid aggressive acceleration to use its smooth shifting and wide gear ratio spread. Let the transmission do its job and keep the engine in its optimal RPM range.

Tire pressure affects fuel economy. Regularly check and maintain the recommended tire pressure, which can be found on the door jamb sticker. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel efficiency.

The HFE is designed for light-duty use. Reduce the amount of gas you use by avoiding carrying unnecessary weight in the bed or cab. HauI items only when you need to and remove them when you’re done.

Plan your routes carefully to avoid stop-and-go traffic. Constant acceleration and braking reduce fuel efficiency. Smooth, consistent driving is the way to maximize MPG in the city.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. This helps maintain a consistent speed and avoid unnecessary acceleration, which can improve fuel economy, especially on long trips. Cruise control may not be the most efficient option in hilly terrain. Check 1500 MPG across all years to see changes.