The 2017 Ram 1500 4WD with the 5.7L Hemi V8 achieves 15 MPG combined. It’s a full-size pickup truck designed for hauling, towing, and tackling tough jobs, not an economy car. Fuel efficiency often ranks lower on the priority list for the Ram 1500’s target demographic, such as contractors, ranchers, and anyone needing serious capability, than horsepower and payload. They accept the compromise, understanding that the Hemi’s strong power is linked to its thirst.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2017 Ram 1500 4×4 5.7L at 13 MPG in the city and 19 MPG on the highway. The lower city figure reflects the stop-and-go driving conditions where the engine works harder to accelerate the heavy truck from a standstill. The highway figure improves as the truck maintains a steady speed, but aerodynamic limitations and the engine’s displacement prevent it from reaching truly impressive numbers. Drivers should note that these figures are based on ideal conditions, and individual driving habits can dramatically impact these numbers, especially in demanding situations like towing.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Ram 1500 4WD 5.7L is $3,500. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. It’s a significant expense, representing a substantial portion of the truck’s total cost of ownership. Potential buyers should carefully consider this figure, especially if they anticipate putting significantly more than 15,000 miles on the vehicle each year. To see all Ram fuel economy data, prospective owners can review the range before deciding.

Real-world expectations

Real-world fuel economy can vary significantly, even though the EPA provides a standardized estimate. Factors like driving style, terrain, payload, and even tire pressure play a critical role. Owners who frequently tow or haul heavy loads can expect to see numbers lower than the EPA estimates, potentially dipping into the single digits. Conversely, drivers who primarily use the truck for commuting on relatively flat terrain and adhere to speed limits might see slightly better figures, though rarely exceeding the EPA’s highway estimate. The 1500 MPG across all years shows how efficiency has fluctuated over generations.

How it compares

The 2017 Ram 1500’s fuel economy sits squarely in the middle of its competitors. A similarly equipped 2017 Ford F-150 with the 5.0L V8 and four-wheel drive manages around 17 MPG combined, a slight edge over the Ram. The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with the 5.3L V8 and four-wheel drive offers similar figures. The Toyota Tundra, known for its reliability but not its fuel efficiency, typically achieves around 14 MPG combined with its 5.7L V8. The decision often comes down to brand preference and specific needs, payload, towing capacity, and features, outweighing the small differences in fuel economy. For some, that Hemi rumble is worth the fuel cost.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Aggressive acceleration and hard braking are fuel-economy killers, especially in a heavy truck like the Ram 1500. Smooth, gradual acceleration allows the engine to operate more efficiently. Anticipating traffic flow and maintaining a steady speed as much as possible are simple yet effective techniques.

Tire pressure plays a more important role than many realize. Ensure your tires are inflated to the pressure recommended on the door jamb sticker. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Regular checks are crucial, especially during temperature changes.

Minimize unnecessary weight. Hauling around excessive tools, equipment, or other cargo adds extra strain on the engine. Remove anything you don’t need to reduce the overall weight of the truck. Emptying the bed of unnecessary objects can add up to real savings over time.

Consider using cruise control on the highway, particularly on relatively flat stretches. This can help maintain a consistent speed and prevent unnecessary fluctuations in throttle position, ultimately improving fuel economy. Remember to disengage cruise control when navigating hilly terrain or heavy traffic.