17 MPG combined is what you can expect from the 2019 Ram 1500 Classic 4WD with the 5.7L Hemi V8. This truck isn’t bought for saving fuel; it’s a tool. Contractors, ranchers, and weekend warriors buy it because they prioritize capability and reliability over saving money at the pump. They need to tow trailers, haul materials, and navigate challenging terrain, and the Hemi delivers that, even if its fuel consumption constantly reminds you of its power.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2019 Ram 1500 Classic 4WD 5.7L at 15 MPG in the city and 21 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect how the engine works. City driving shows the engine’s thirst, as stop-and-go traffic and frequent acceleration require constant fuel. The highway number is a little better and achievable when maintaining a steady speed and minimizing aggressive driving. However, even then, the aerodynamics of a full-size truck and the weight of the 4WD system limit potential efficiency gains.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2019 Ram 1500 Classic 4WD 5.7L is $3,100. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Remember that changes in gasoline prices will directly affect this annual cost; higher fuel costs will increase it, and lower prices will offer savings.

Real-world expectations

Forget those EPA numbers when you attach a trailer. Towing greatly reduces fuel economy, often dropping into the single digits depending on the trailer’s size and weight and the terrain. Even without towing, aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and prolonged idling will lower your average MPG. Payload also has an impact. Keeping the bed loaded with tools and equipment will require more fuel than an empty truck bed. The real world can be very different from the EPA’s standardized testing, so consider how you actually use a truck before expecting perfect results.

How it compares

The fuel economy of the 2019 Ram 1500 Classic 4WD 5.7L is behind some competitors. For example, a 2019 Ford F-150 4×4 with the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 is rated at 20 MPG combined, and even the 5.0L V8 Ford often gets slightly better real-world numbers than the Hemi. Similarly, a 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 4×4 with the 5.3L V8, especially with the optional 8-speed transmission, can sometimes beat the Ram in combined MPG. But Ram buyers often prioritize the proven reliability of the Hemi and its distinct character, the throaty exhaust note and the readily available low-end torque, even if it means they spend more on gas. They may also find better pricing and incentives on the Classic compared to newer trucks. For those interested, you can also see 1500 MPG across all years to get a better understanding of the vehicle’s fuel efficiency as a whole.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Minimize idling. The 5.7L Hemi consumes a lot of fuel when idling, especially on cold starts. Avoid unnecessary warm-ups and prolonged idling in traffic or at worksites. Shutting off the engine, even for short stops, will make a difference over time.

Drive smoothly and anticipate traffic flow. Avoid harsh acceleration and braking, which waste fuel. Allow plenty of following distance and try to maintain consistent speed. The Ram’s weight and strong engine make it easy to over-accelerate, burning unnecessary fuel.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Low tire pressure increases rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level found on the doorjamb sticker.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Remove any items you don’t need from the bed or cab. Extra weight increases fuel consumption, especially during city driving. Consider removing toolboxes or equipment when they are not needed.

Explore all Ram fuel economy data. You can also use tow/haul mode carefully. This mode alters the transmission’s shift points and throttle response to optimize performance when towing or hauling heavy loads. However, using it when it’s not needed will reduce fuel economy when driving without a load.