Getting 24 MPG combined from a full-size, four-wheel-drive pickup truck used to seem impossible, but the 2020 Ram 1500 4WD with the 3.0L diesel engine has made that a reality. This isn’t a compact crossover pretending to be a truck while saving fuel. This is a real workhorse able to tow and haul substantial loads, yet it gets fuel economy comparable to some mid-size SUVs. Ram 1500 owners who chose the diesel usually want long-distance driving and the strong low-end torque that this engine provides, and the good fuel economy is an added benefit.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2020 Ram 1500 4WD 3.0L will get 21 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. The difference between city and highway numbers shows the engine’s ability to cruise efficiently at steady speeds, which is typical of good diesel engines. In cities, frequent stops and starts will affect fuel consumption. However, the 29 MPG highway rating means fewer fuel stops on long trips, a big plus for those who use their Ram 1500 for long-haul driving or frequent weekend trips. Drivers can check 1500 MPG across all years to compare performance in other model years.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for this 2020 Ram 1500 configuration at $2,300. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year using a national average fuel price. Remember that this is just an estimate. Your actual fuel expenses will vary depending on how you drive, local fuel prices, and the conditions in which you use your truck. Heavy towing, frequent off-roading, or aggressive driving will raise fuel consumption and annual fuel cost.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standard, but real-world fuel economy can be different. Factors like driving style, road conditions, and how well the vehicle is maintained all affect MPG. Ram 1500 owners who want good fuel efficiency and drive carefully can often match or even beat the EPA estimates, especially on long highway trips. However, expect lower MPG figures if you often tow heavy loads or drive fast. Even with those issues, the diesel Ram 1500 will probably get better fuel economy than gasoline-powered versions in similar conditions.

How it compares

The 2020 Ram 1500 4WD 3.0L diesel has great fuel efficiency compared to other full-size trucks. For example, a 2020 Ford F-150 with the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 and four-wheel drive gets around 22 MPG combined, while the 5.0L V8 version drops to about 19 MPG combined. A 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with the 5.3L V8 gets around 17 MPG combined. The turbodiesel engine gives the Ram an advantage, helping offset the higher initial cost of the diesel. This is useful information for Ram owners who track all Ram fuel economy data. These fuel efficiency comparisons are important to buyers who need full-size truck abilities but want to keep fuel costs down.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 3.0L diesel works best with smooth acceleration and consistent speeds. Avoid fast acceleration and hard braking. Look ahead at traffic and keep a steady throttle when you can to keep the engine working in its most efficient range.

Tire pressure matters for rolling resistance. Make sure your tires are at the pressure listed on the tire placard on the driver’s side doorjamb. Checking tire pressure is an easy way to improve fuel economy.

Reduce extra weight. Excess cargo in the truck bed or cabin increases the vehicle’s weight, which hurts fuel consumption. Take out anything you don’t need every day.

Diesel engines need regular maintenance. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for scheduled maintenance, including oil changes and filter replacements, for your Ram 1500. A well-maintained engine is more efficient.

Don’t idle too long. Diesel engines use fuel even when idling, especially when cold. Avoid idling when you can to lower fuel expenses.