The 2019 Ram 1500 HFE 2WD with the 3.6L V6 gets 23 MPG combined, a respectable figure for a full-size pickup truck. While the fuel economy won’t rival a compact car, it helps make the HFE a good option for buyers who need truck capabilities without the high gas consumption of larger engines.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Ram 1500 HFE at 20 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. This split shows the engine’s ability to operate efficiently at steady cruising speeds on the highway. The eight-speed automatic transmission also plays a key role, keeping the engine in its optimal power band. Keep in mind that these figures are estimates, and real-world driving conditions can significantly impact the actual MPG you achieve. Stop-and-go traffic, aggressive acceleration, and towing will all reduce fuel economy.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Ram 1500 HFE at $1,900 per year. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles annually, using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Individual fuel costs will vary depending on local gas prices and driving habits. Drivers who primarily use their HFE for short commutes in congested areas will likely see a higher annual fuel cost than those who do mostly highway driving.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standardized estimate, but drivers report varying MPG figures in real-world conditions. Owners find that achieving the 26 MPG highway figure is realistic when maintaining consistent speeds and avoiding excessive acceleration. City driving can be more challenging, especially in areas with frequent stops and starts. Factors like tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and even the weather can influence fuel economy. The HFE is designed for fleet buyers and owner-operators who prioritize fuel efficiency. These buyers typically monitor their fuel consumption closely and adopt driving habits that maximize MPG.

How it compares

To understand the 2019 Ram 1500 HFE’s fuel efficiency, consider its competitors. The Ford F-150 with its base 3.3L V6 engine achieves a similar 22 MPG combined, while the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with its base 4.3L V6 manages around 19 MPG combined. These differences may seem small, but they can add up over the vehicle’s lifespan, especially for high-mileage drivers. Within the Ram 1500 lineup, lower trims with larger engines, like the 5.7L Hemi V8, can easily drop to 17 MPG combined. The HFE’s focus on fuel efficiency separates it from other 1500 models. For a more detailed look into all Ram fuel economy data, consider browsing by model year.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key to maximizing fuel economy in the Ram 1500 HFE. Avoid sudden bursts of speed from a standstill, as this consumes a significant amount of fuel. Smooth and gradual acceleration allows the engine to operate more efficiently, helping you get closer to the EPA’s estimated MPG figures.

Maintaining proper tire pressure is another simple yet effective way to improve fuel economy. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level. You can find this level on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. For a detail about 1500 MPG across all years, refer to the model’s information page.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the truck bed. Carrying heavy loads increases the engine’s workload, which translates to reduced fuel efficiency. Remove any tools, equipment, or other items that aren’t essential for your daily driving. The HFE trim is designed for efficiency, so don’t negate its benefits with unnecessary weight.

Anticipate traffic flow and coast whenever possible. By looking ahead and anticipating when you’ll need to slow down or stop, you can coast for longer periods. This reduces the need for braking and acceleration, which saves fuel. The eight-speed transmission is smooth and efficient with appropriate anticipation.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which can improve fuel economy on long drives. Be mindful of hilly terrain since cruise control may downshift frequently, negating some of the fuel-saving benefits.