19 MPG combined isn’t going to win any fuel efficiency awards, but the 2017 Ram 1500 Crew Cab is a full-size pickup truck for drivers who need serious capability, whether that’s hauling building materials, towing a boat, or navigating rough terrain. For these buyers, the Ram 1500 delivers practicality and ruggedness, and they’re often willing to accept the less-than-stellar fuel economy as a trade-off.

City and highway performance

The 2017 Ram 1500 Crew Cab, equipped with the 5.7L V8 engine and 8-speed automatic transmission, gets an EPA-estimated 16 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The city MPG reflects the demands of stop-and-go traffic, where the truck’s weight and engine displacement affect mileage. Highway driving, however, allows the engine to operate more efficiently at a consistent speed, resulting in a noticeable increase in fuel economy. These figures are based on standardized testing and can vary depending on driving habits and conditions.

Annual fuel cost

Based on EPA estimates, the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Ram 1500 Crew Cab is $2,763. This figure assumes 15,000 miles of driving per year and uses the national average fuel price at the time of testing. As fuel prices fluctuate, this cost will vary.

Expect Ram owners who frequently tow or haul heavy loads, or drive more aggressively, to exceed this annual cost.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a benchmark, real-world fuel economy can differ. Driving style, road conditions, payload, and even tire pressure can impact the mileage you achieve. Aggressive acceleration, frequent braking, and high speeds will all decrease fuel efficiency. Smooth acceleration, anticipatory braking, and maintaining a steady speed can help you get closer to the EPA estimates.

Owners who mainly use their Ram 1500 for commuting in congested areas are likely to see MPG figures closer to the 16 MPG city rating, while those who do mostly highway driving may approach the 24 MPG highway figure. You can compare the 1500 MPG across all years to see how the 2017 model compares to others.

How it compares

When considering other full-size pickup trucks, the 2017 Ram 1500’s fuel economy places it in a competitive position. For example, a Ford F-150 with the 5.0L V8 engine and four-wheel drive gets an EPA-estimated 17 MPG combined. The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with the 5.3L V8 and similar configuration delivers around 18 MPG combined. These small differences may or may not be significant to the typical Ram 1500 buyer. The Ram often appeals to buyers prioritizing ride comfort and interior styling over fuel efficiency. Drivers looking for better efficiency should consider the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel, which offers significantly better MPG figures. For all Ram fuel economy data, check out the Ram brand page.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Ram 1500’s 5.7L Hemi V8 is known for its power, not efficiency. Be careful with the accelerator and avoid unnecessary aggressive acceleration. Gradual acceleration and maintaining a consistent speed will help improve fuel consumption.

Properly inflated tires can make a difference. Check your tire pressure regularly and make sure they are inflated to the recommended level, which can be found on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel economy.

Consider the weight you are carrying. Extra cargo in the bed of the truck adds weight, which impacts fuel efficiency. Remove any unnecessary items to reduce the load and improve MPG.

During highway driving, use cruise control when possible. Maintaining a constant speed can help optimize the engine’s efficiency and minimize fuel consumption. Remember to disengage it in heavy traffic or inclement weather.

Stay on top of routine maintenance. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug maintenance ensure that your engine is running well. A well-maintained engine is more efficient.