24 MPG combined might not sound like much, but for the 2015 Ram Promaster City 2.4L 4-cyl, it’s a sensible compromise. This isn’t a vehicle for weekend drives; it’s a workhorse, a compact cargo van for navigating urban streets and delivering goods efficiently. Its target audience, small business owners, delivery services, and mobile tradespeople, prioritizes practicality and cargo capacity over fuel efficiency, and the Promaster City delivers both.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates provide a split view of the Promaster City’s fuel consumption. The city MPG rating of 21 reflects the stop-and-go conditions and frequent idling typical of its operation. Delivery drivers battling traffic and making frequent stops will likely see figures close to this, or even lower depending on driving style and load. The highway MPG of 28 shows the van’s capability on longer hauls. Once up to speed and maintaining a steady pace, the 2.4L engine and 9-speed automatic transmission work together to optimize fuel consumption. This makes the Promaster City an option for businesses that require occasional longer trips between cities or regional distribution centers.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2015 Ram Promaster City will be $1,800. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with mixed city and highway driving, and assumes national average fuel prices. It’s a benchmark for budgeting, allowing potential owners to factor in fuel expenses. Actual fuel costs will vary depending on individual driving habits, local fuel prices, and the business’s specific demands. The $1,800 annual fuel cost illustrates where this van fits in the broader market.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a comparison, real-world fuel economy often differs. Load weight is significant with the Promaster City. A heavily laden van will consume more fuel, especially during acceleration and uphill climbs. Driving style also plays a crucial role. Aggressive acceleration, hard braking, and high speeds will negatively impact MPG. Ambient temperature and road conditions can affect fuel economy. Cold weather can reduce MPG as the engine works harder to reach operating temperature. Anticipate some fluctuation around the EPA estimates and adopt a driving style that prioritizes fuel efficiency.

How it compares

The 2015 Promaster City existed in a segment of compact cargo vans, all balancing utility and fuel efficiency. The Ford Transit Connect offered a similar feature set, with its 2.5L engine achieving around 24 MPG combined in certain trims. The Nissan NV200, while smaller, also aimed for this market, with an EPA-estimated 25 MPG combined. And you can view all Ram fuel economy data for a broader view. These comparisons are essential because a difference of even 1 or 2 MPG can impact the bottom line for a business that puts thousands of miles on a vehicle each year.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Keep your tires properly inflated, as this helps fuel efficiency. Check the tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended PSI, found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which burns more fuel.

Avoid unnecessary idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines restart quickly, and idling wastes fuel and contributes to emissions. This is relevant for delivery drivers who make short stops.

Drive smoothly and avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible. The Promaster City’s 9-speed transmission keeps the engine in its optimal efficiency range if you drive smoothly.

Lighten the load. While the Promaster City carries cargo, avoid overloading it. Unnecessary weight reduces fuel efficiency and puts strain on the engine and transmission. Periodically remove unnecessary items from the van to optimize its payload.

Consider the PROMASTER MPG across all years. There may be subtle improvements in later model years so don’t assume the 2015 model is always the best bet for your needs.

The Promaster City’s 24 MPG is about a practical solution for businesses that need a compact and capable cargo van. It’s a workhorse, and its fuel economy reflects that.