What is the fuel economy of a Ram 1500?

The fuel economy of a Ram 1500 varies by engine, drivetrain and configuration. In general, most gasoline-powered Ram 1500s deliver roughly in the low 20s miles per gallon (mpg) combined, while the EcoDiesel and certain 2WD setups offer higher highway efficiency. The high-performance Ram TRX, by contrast, returns substantially lower fuel economy.

Engine options and typical EPA ranges

These are approximate EPA estimates for common Ram 1500 configurations. Actual ratings depend on options and tires. Check fueleconomy.gov for your exact build.

• 3.6L V6 with eTorque (gasoline), 2WD: approximately 22–23 mpg combined; 4WD: approximately 20–22 mpg combined.


• 5.7L Hemi V8 with eTorque (gasoline), 2WD: approximately 19–20 mpg combined; 4WD: approximately 18–19 mpg combined.


• 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 (diesel), 2WD: approximately 28–29 mpg combined; 4WD: approximately 25–26 mpg combined.


• RAM TRX (6.2L Supercharged Hemi V8), 4WD: approximately 11–14 mpg combined (significantly lower due to performance tuning).

Note: These figures are EPA estimates and can vary with payload, terrain, tire choice, and driving style. Real-world results are often different from sticker values, especially when towing or carrying heavy loads.

Variants and real-world considerations

RAM TRX and other performance variants

The RAM TRX is a purpose-built, high-performance version of the Ram 1500. Its focus on speed and acceleration comes with markedly lower fuel economy compared with standard Ram 1500 models. Expect mixed-driving figures generally in the low double digits mpg, often around 12–14 mpg, depending on conditions and driving style.

Real-world factors affecting fuel economy

Actual mileage depends on many variables beyond the engine itself, including payload, towing, terrain, weather, tire size, and how aggressively the vehicle is driven. Diesel powertrains tend to show more favorable highway efficiency, while heavy payloads and frequent stops can reduce city mpg significantly. Always consider official EPA ratings for your exact build and use real-world testing to set expectations.

Summary

The Ram 1500’s fuel economy varies widely by configuration. For best highway efficiency, the 3.0L EcoDiesel in 2WD is typically the top choice among stock configurations. Gasoline options (3.6L V6 and 5.7L V8) offer a balance of power and efficiency, with 2WD versions generally edging out 4WD in mpg. The TRX, while powerful, sacrifices fuel economy in pursuit of performance. Always verify the EPA ratings for your exact model and consider your typical use (towing, payload, and highway driving) when evaluating fuel economy.

What is the fuel economy of the Ram 1500 V6 vs V8?

Fuel efficiency is the area in which the V6 Pentastar outshines its counterpart. It has estimated highway and city fuel economies of 8.4 L/100 km and 12.4 L/100 km, respectively. Even so, the V8 HEMI doesn't do too bad, with estimated fuel economies of 10.2 L/100 km on the highway and 13.8 L/100 km in the city.

Is the 3.0 L hurricane better than the 5.7 Hemi?

The 3.0L Hurricane engine generally offers more horsepower and torque than the 5.7L HEMI, provides better fuel economy, and has a smoother, more modern power delivery, while the 5.7L HEMI offers a traditional V8 exhaust note and slightly higher maximum towing capacity. The Hurricane is a modern, twin-turbocharged inline-six designed for efficiency and power, while the HEMI is a naturally aspirated V8 known for its traditional rumble. 
You can watch this video to compare the driving experience of both engines: 51sCTech-reviewYouTube · Mar 1, 2025
Performance and power

• Horsepower: The standard 3.0L Hurricane makes 420 hp, compared to the 5.7L HEMI's 395 hp. 
• Torque: The Hurricane produces 469 lb-ft of torque, more than the HEMI's 410 lb-ft. 
• Acceleration: The Hurricane accelerates more quickly, with a 0-60 mph time around 5 seconds compared to the HEMI's 6 seconds. 

This video demonstrates the difference in acceleration between the two engines: 54sCTech-reviewYouTube · Oct 30, 2025
Fuel economy

• The 3.0L Hurricane is more fuel-efficient, with an estimated 18 mpg city / 24 mpg highway for the standard output version. 
• The 5.7L HEMI with eTorque is rated around 18 mpg city / 23 mpg highway. 

Towing and payload

• Towing: The 5.7L HEMI has a slightly higher maximum tow rating (up to 12,750 pounds) than the Hurricane (up to 11,550 pounds).
• Payload: The HEMI can also haul slightly more, but the Hurricane is still capable for most normal hauling needs. 

Driving experience

• Sound: The HEMI has a characteristic and more aggressive V8 exhaust note, while the Hurricane is noticeably quieter. 
• Power delivery: The Hurricane feels responsive with strong torque at lower RPMs, while the HEMI has a more traditional V8 power delivery, though some feel the Hurricane's overall delivery is an upgrade. 

This video compares the engine sounds of both options: 37sBen HardyYouTube · Sep 21, 2025
Which is right for you?

• Choose the 3.0L Hurricane if you prioritize more power, quicker acceleration, better fuel economy, and a modern driving experience. 
• Choose the 5.7L HEMI if you want the classic V8 rumble, a slightly higher maximum towing capacity, and a traditional engine feel. 

Is the Ram 1500 fuel efficient for a truck?

The new 2025 Ram 1500 can return up to 26 mpg on the highway and 20 in the city when equipped with the 3.6-liter Pentastar® V6 engine with eTorque. This powertrain still offers up to 305 horsepower, so you never have to sacrifice speed for efficiency.

What is the gas mileage on a Dodge Ram 1500 5.7 Hemi?

15 mpg city/22 mpg highway
5.7L HEMI V8 Engine. Fuel Efficiency (4X2): 15 mpg city/22 mpg highway.