The 2024 Ram 1500 4WD with the 3.6L V6 has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 21 MPG combined. Buyers typically choose this truck for its strong capability, comfortable ride, and imposing presence, rather than fuel efficiency. The fuel economy is simply part of the cost, arguably reasonable considering what the truck can do.

City and highway performance

EPA estimates show 19 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway, figures achieved under specific testing conditions. The proven and reliable 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine works hard to move a vehicle exceeding two tons, especially in stop-and-go traffic. The eight-speed automatic transmission helps keep the engine in its most efficient operating range. The eTorque mild-hybrid system assists during acceleration and deceleration, which also helps with those numbers. On the open highway, at consistent speeds, expect numbers around 24 MPG. However, aggressive driving or heavy loads will quickly reduce fuel economy.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for this 2024 Ram 1500 configuration at $2,100. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs will vary. They depend on your driving habits, whether you drive more in the city or on the highway, and where you live, since regional fuel prices change. If you mainly use your truck for short trips in town hauling light loads, your annual fuel cost will likely exceed that $2,100 estimate.

Real-world expectations

Real-world fuel economy for your 2024 Ram 1500 4WD with the 3.6L V6 will vary. Expect highway cruising to produce numbers close to the EPA estimate. City driving, towing, hauling, and off-road trips will reduce that, and could dip into the low teens or even single digits if you push the truck hard. The tires on your truck also matter. More aggressive off-road tires generally reduce fuel economy. Payload, driving style, and weather further change your average miles per gallon. Consider these things when you consider filling up.

How it compares

The fuel economy of the 2024 Ram 1500 4WD with the 3.6L V6 places it about in the middle of the full-size truck class. The Ford F-150 with the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 gets slightly better fuel economy, achieving 22 MPG combined in 4×4 configuration. The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with the 2.7L Turbo High-Output engine gets about 19 MPG combined with 4WD. The Toyota Tundra with its base 3.5L twin-turbo V6 manages about 20 MPG combined in 4×4 guise. Fuel economy is typically not a deciding factor for Ram 1500 buyers, but looking at all Ram fuel economy data may help you choose the right trim. The eTorque system on the 3.6L Ram engine is a benefit versus competitors, but the difference isn’t big enough to drastically exceed those vehicles’ MPG. For a full look comparing 1500 MPG across all years, see our other tables.

Tips to Maximize Efficiency

Avoid quick acceleration and hard braking. The Ram 1500 4WD is heavy, and quick starts and stops require a lot of energy. Gentle acceleration and smooth braking let the eTorque system recapture more energy and reduce fuel use, especially in town.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, which makes the engine work harder and uses more gas. Check your tire pressure often and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure, usually on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Reduce extra weight. Every extra pound in your truck uses more fuel. Remove any stuff you don’t need from the bed and cabin. Don’t drive around with a full load of tools or equipment unless you need them.

On the highway, use cruise control. Holding a steady speed can improve fuel economy. When possible, use cruise control to keep your speed steady and avoid unnecessary acceleration. The Ram 1500’s adaptive cruise control system helps keep a safe distance, increasing efficiency.

Service your truck regularly. Make sure your engine is tuned properly, your air filter is clean, and your oil is changed as recommended by the manufacturer. Regular maintenance can greatly improve fuel economy by ensuring your engine runs well.