What To Know
- Two of the most popular pickup trucks on the market, the Ram 1500 and the Ram 2500, offer different levels of fuel efficiency, depending on the engine and drivetrain options chosen.
- 4L V8 engine is the standard engine for the Ram 2500, offering a balance of power and fuel economy, with an estimated 17 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway.
- According to Fuelly, a website that collects real-world fuel economy data from vehicle owners, the Ram 1500 averages 17 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway, while the Ram 2500 averages 15 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway.
When it comes to choosing a pickup truck, fuel economy is a major consideration for many buyers. Two of the most popular pickup trucks on the market, the Ram 1500 and the Ram 2500, offer different levels of fuel efficiency, depending on the engine and drivetrain options chosen. In this blog post, we’ll compare the fuel economy of the Ram 1500 and the Ram 2500 to help you make an informed decision about which truck is right for you.
Engine and Drivetrain Options:
Both the Ram 1500 and the Ram 2500 offer a variety of engine and drivetrain options, each with its own unique fuel economy ratings.
Ram 1500:
- 3.6L V6 Engine: With the 3.6L V6 engine, the Ram 1500 achieves up to 20 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.
- 5.7L V8 Engine: The 5.7L V8 engine provides more power but slightly lower fuel economy, with an estimated 17 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway.
- 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 Engine: The 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine is the most fuel-efficient option for the Ram 1500, delivering up to 23 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.
Ram 2500:
- 6.4L V8 Engine: The 6.4L V8 engine is the standard engine for the Ram 2500, offering a balance of power and fuel economy, with an estimated 17 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway.
- 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel Engine: The 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel engine is known for its impressive torque and towing capacity, but it comes with lower fuel economy, estimated at 16 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway.
Factors Affecting Fuel Economy:
In addition to the engine and drivetrain options, several other factors can affect the fuel economy of the Ram 1500 and the Ram 2500, including:
- Vehicle Weight: The Ram 2500 is a heavier truck than the Ram 1500, which can result in lower fuel economy.
- Tire Size: Larger tires can increase rolling resistance, which can lead to lower fuel economy.
- Driving Habits: Aggressive driving, such as rapid acceleration and braking, can reduce fuel economy.
- Payload and Towing: Hauling heavy loads or towing a trailer can significantly impact fuel economy.
Real-World Fuel Economy:
The EPA’s fuel economy estimates provide a good starting point for comparing the fuel efficiency of different vehicles, but real-world fuel economy may vary depending on the factors mentioned above. According to Fuelly, a website that collects real-world fuel economy data from vehicle owners, the Ram 1500 averages 17 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway, while the Ram 2500 averages 15 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway.
Which Truck is Right for You?
The Ram 1500 and the Ram 2500 are both capable and versatile trucks, but they offer different levels of fuel economy. The Ram 1500 is the more fuel-efficient option, especially with the EcoDiesel engine, while the Ram 2500 offers more power and towing capacity at the expense of fuel economy. Ultimately, the best truck for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
Additional Considerations:
Beyond fuel economy, there are several other factors to consider when choosing between the Ram 1500 and the Ram 2500, including:
- Towing and Payload Capacity: The Ram 2500 offers higher towing and payload capacities than the Ram 1500, making it a better choice for heavy-duty tasks.
- Interior Space and Comfort: The Ram 1500 and the Ram 2500 offer spacious interiors with comfortable seating, but the Ram 2500 may have more headroom and legroom in the front and rear seats.
- Technology and Features: Both trucks offer a range of technology and features, including infotainment systems, driver assistance systems, and convenience features. Compare the available features to determine which truck best meets your needs.
- Price: The Ram 1500 is typically priced lower than the Ram 2500, but the price can vary depending on the trim level, engine, and drivetrain options chosen.
The Verdict:
The Ram 1500 and the Ram 2500 are both excellent pickup trucks with different strengths and weaknesses. The Ram 1500 is the more fuel-efficient option, while the Ram 2500 offers more power and towing capacity. Ultimately, the best truck for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
1. Which Ram truck gets the best gas mileage?
The Ram 1500 with the 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine gets the best gas mileage, with an estimated 23 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.
2. How much does the Ram 1500 weigh?
The Ram 1500 has a curb weight ranging from 4,700 to 5,800 pounds, depending on the trim level and options chosen.
3. How much towing capacity does the Ram 1500 have?
The Ram 1500 has a maximum towing capacity of 12,750 pounds when properly equipped.
4. Which Ram truck is better for off-roading?
The Ram 2500 Power Wagon is better for off-roading than the Ram 1500, thanks to its heavy-duty suspension, locking differentials, and disconnecting sway bar.
5. How much does the Ram 2500 weigh?
The Ram 2500 has a curb weight ranging from 6,800 to 8,000 pounds, depending on the trim level and options chosen.
6. How much towing capacity does the Ram 2500 have?
The Ram 2500 has a maximum towing capacity of 19,320 pounds when properly equipped.