How many miles per gallon does a 2006 Dodge Ram 3500 Mega Cab get?
Typically in the mid-teens miles per gallon, with diesel versions generally higher on highway driving than the gasoline option.
In the 2006 Dodge Ram 3500 Mega Cab, fuel economy depends on engine and drivetrain. The Mega Cab was offered with a 5.9L Cummins diesel or a 5.7L Hemi gasoline engine, and available in 2WD or 4x4. Real-world mileage varies with payload, tire size, and driving style.
Engine options and their MPG ranges
Here are typical mpg ranges by engine and configuration for the Mega Cab. Note that actual numbers depend on axle ratio, tires, payload, and whether the truck is 2WD or 4x4.
- Diesel (5.9L Cummins Turbo Diesel)
- City: ~14–16 mpg
- Highway: ~19–22 mpg
- Combined: ~17–19 mpg
- Gasoline (5.7L Hemi)
- City: ~11–13 mpg
- Highway: ~16–18 mpg
- Combined: ~13–15 mpg
These ranges reflect typical performance and are intended as a guide; real-world numbers can vary significantly with load, tire size, and driving style.
Factors that influence actual fuel economy
Several factors beyond engine choice affect the Ram 3500 Mega Cab’s mpg ratings. Understanding these can help set realistic expectations and optimize efficiency.
- Payload and towing weight
- Tire type and size, plus inflation
- Drivetrain setup (2WD vs 4x4) and axle ratio
- Driving behavior, including acceleration and cruise speed
- Maintenance and engine tuning
To maximize efficiency, keep tires properly inflated, perform routine maintenance, and minimize unnecessary load when possible. Real-world mileage tends to skew toward the lower end of these ranges when the truck is used for heavy payloads or towing.
Summary
The 2006 Dodge Ram 3500 Mega Cab’s mpg varies mainly by engine and drivetrain. Diesel-powered Mega Cabs typically achieve roughly 17–19 mpg combined, with better highway efficiency, while gasoline-powered models generally land in the 13–15 mpg combined range. Actual results depend on payload, tires, and driving habits, so expect a broad range in daily use.
